Medical expenses are legally required as damages in a personal injury claim. This includes chiropractic care. However, the insurer for the at-fault party may question if your chiropractic care is considered reasonable and necessary.
How to Get Your Chiropractic Care Covered
Alternative forms of medical care continue to grow in popularity, but treatment by non-physician medical professionals such as chiropractors is likely to be questioned as part of a personal injury claim. Medical science has yet to fully prove the efficacy of this type of care, which casts doubt on its necessity following a car accident. Also, since chiropractors specialize in treating soft tissue injuries such as whiplash, sprains, strains, and contusions, the severity of the injury itself may be called into question.
To increase the odds of having your chiropractic care covered:
See a doctor first
It is a good idea to avoid making your chiropractor your sole care provider. Care provided by physicians, hospitals, or medical clinics is highly regarded by insurance companies as an indicator of your pain and suffering.
Don’t delay treatment
After any car accident, seeking prompt medical treatment is necessary to link your injuries to the event. If you wait several days or weeks to seek care, it becomes easier to argue that your pain is from an unrelated injury.
Make sure your records are complete
Records from your treating physicians should be as specific as possible. Vague and inconclusive records are most likely to create problems with the insurer. Records of chiropractic care should indicate your specific symptoms, the precise treatment provided, and the exact cost of each treatment.
Be cautious of ongoing care
It is not uncommon for chiropractic care to involve several appointments per week over the course of several months. However, the more costly the care, the more likely it is that the expense will be questioned. Even if your case goes to trial, you could be held responsible for a portion of the bill.
Have You Been Injured In A Louisiana Car Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Alexandria office directly at 318.541.8188 to schedule your free consultation.