The Critical Role of Chiropractic Care After a Motor Vehicle Accident
At Health Shack, our team of dedicated chiropractors regularly see patients suffering from injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents. A common injury we encounter is whiplash, a neck injury resulting from the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head, typical in collisions. While many initially report immediate symptoms like neck strain, the long-term effects of whiplash and other injuries can be more severe and less apparent.
Research indicates that the repercussions of a motor vehicle accident can extend far beyond the initial weeks. For example, it's not uncommon for patients to start experiencing significant back pain weeks after an accident, a symptom that can evolve into chronic issues if not addressed promptly.
This delay in symptom onset often complicates insurance claims, especially for injuries that become apparent only months after the accident. That’s why we at Health Shack emphasize the importance of early chiropractic evaluation. Getting assessed soon after an accident not only speeds up recovery but also establishes a documented baseline of your injuries. This documentation is crucial should you need to pursue claims with the Insurance Commission of Western Australia.
Not at fault? You are covered - Insurance Claims and Legal Requirements:
Did you know that if you are injured as a driver or pedestrian in a motor vehicle accident, there is insurance available to cover your injuries?
At Health Shack, we support our patients in navigating the claims process, especially when the accident was not their fault. This involves reporting the accident and liaising with the Insurance Commission of Western Australia to ensure you receive the treatment you need. Initially, our patients pay for their treatments, which can be reimbursed once the claim is accepted and a claim number from ICWA is issued. Afterward, we directly invoice the insurance commission, simplifying the process for you.
So if you're involved in a motor vehicle accident make an appointment to see your local chiropractor, also you are required to report the accident through the commission's crash reporting facility online, bypassing the need to visit a police station to report the accident from a personal injury perspective (https://www.crashreport.com.au/ocrf/).
Even a low-speed accident can result in significant injuries,
This is a fact often overlooked in discussions about motor vehicle accidents.
Dr. Chris Haigh, a respected figure in our clinic, frequently notes, "Often when talking with patients about long-term neck and back issues, they mention that they've never had a serious motor vehicle accident." However, even at speeds as low as 10 km/h, the impact can cause a whiplash effect, stretching and injuring the muscles and joints in the spine. There is a device called the Seatbelt Convincer, used to demonstrate this effect showing how even minor accidents can transmit considerable forces into the neck and lower back. It's little surprise then that we see injuries not only in the days following an accident but also in the months and years that follow. Watching such demonstrations can be a sobering reminder of why comprehensive chiropractic care is essential after any motor vehicle accident.
Visit Us for a Consultation:
If you've recently been involved in a motor vehicle accident, or if you're experiencing lingering discomfort from a past incident, we encourage you to visit Health Shack for a thorough assessment. Our goal is to ensure your swift recovery and provide the necessary documentation to support any insurance claims related to your injuries.
For more information on how to report an accident or to learn about your rights and the necessary steps after a vehicle collision, please visit the Insurance Commission of Western Australia's website.
Let's work together to ensure your health is never put on hold after an accident.