Car accidents happen. Unless you've been in a serious accident before, it’s likely you are unsure of what to do and where to begin. At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we're here to help you navigate the murky waters.
You're in an accident, what should you do?
Step 1 - Call the police to report it and take photos
Step 2 - Exchange information, report the accident to both insurance companies
Step 3 – Book appointment at Boulder Sports Chiropractic for medical evaluation
Step 4 - Seek attorney help if warranted
You've been in an accident and now you're feeling pain-what is next? Immediately following the impact adrenaline levels are high, and often prevent you from experiencing any initial pain. However, as time goes on and the rush subsides, aches and pains tend to show up. Pain levels commonly continue to increase over the following weeks after the accident. As a result, there is often damage to both the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the spine and extremities-even in low velocity impacts (~5 mph). Whiplash injuries often occur as the body experiences a force that causes the neck or spine to move in a whip-like motion, from extension to flexion. These quick and powerful motions lead to strain/sprain injuries. The damage can lead to serious and even lifelong pain if not addressed appropriately.
Car accident victim seek usually seek evaluation from their primary care physician or travel to the emergency room. If nothing more than damage to muscles or ligaments are present, the victim is usually prescribed medication for pain and dismissed- however the pain often lingers for weeks if not months. This is where Boulder Sports Chiropractic comes in. We are experts at treating muscle and ligamentous injuries, and specialize at creating individualized treatment plans to get you back to 100% as soon as possible. Treatment may include x-rays or MRIs, and may even include appropriate referrals to specialists to make sure you get the best and most appropriate care possible.
Who pays for my treatment?
In Colorado, residents are covered automatically through their car insurance premiums with Med Pay- unless they specifically choose to opt out. Most individuals are unaware that this option even exists, and that they are most likely already paying monthly for it. It is designed to help your return to pre-injury status, while not having to stress with paying out of pocket for your rehab. I encourage everyone to contact their car insurance carrier, and to learn more about this option as it needs to be in place prior to the incident. Often, Med Pay is not only limited to motor vehicle accidents, and in certain circumstances may also allow coverage following a vehicular collision even while on your bike.
In some situations, extensive treatment is required to get your back into your regular routine, especially if your Med Pay was exhausted immediately following an accident through hospital bills. In these scenarios, it is wise to seek out the assistance of an attorney who specializes in motor vehicle collisions, who can help get you the appropriate care and treatment without having to pay out of pocket. We offer the use of a medical lien to pay for your treatment after an accident in this situation. Read more about liens here.
If you were in a car accident in the Boulder or Denver area, contact us today to start feeling better.