Auto Injuries Frequently Asked Questions

What You Need To Know And Do If You've Been Injured In An Auto Accident

Florida Law Requires Initiation Of Care Within 14 Days Of The Date Of Your Accident.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, you must be examined within 14 days of your accident or your insurance company will deny you PIP benefits.

Q:  What should I do first?

A:  Your life and your health are first and foremost.  If you have any life-threatening injuries, go to the hospital.

Q:  What's next?

A: A chiropractor who specializes in auto accident injuries will be able to accurately examine, diagnose & treat most injuries that you may have.  Chiropractors are known to be the experts in treatment of whiplash and spinal-related disorders.  Just make sure the physician you choose, specializes in auto injuries.  Proper diagnosis is a key element in your healing process.

Q:  Can I see a chiropractor immediately?

A:  Yes.  In most cases, we see people on the same day of their accident.  These people always get the best results in their healing process.

Q:  Do I need a referral for chiropractic care?

A: No.  Chiropractic Physicians are primary care doctors and considered specialists.  Auto insurance is not a managed care network or HMO, therefore, no referral or prescription is needed.

Q:  Why are chiropractors considered the experts of auto injuries?

A:  The most common injuries in auto accidents are to the neck and back.  This is an area of specialty for chiropractors.  These types of injuries want to heal with scar tissue and we have special techniques, that no one else uses, to disrupt the scar tissue adhesions.  This allows for more normal and complete healing.  Your body will begin forming scar tissue within 4 hours of you injury, that's why immediate care is essential to optimal healing.

Q:  Who will pay for my care?

A:  You must file an injury "medical" claim with your insurance company.  Florida is a "no-fault" state, which means that no matter who was at fault in the accident, your personal auto insurance will pay for your care up front.  If you were not "at-fault", your insurance company will get the money back from the "at-fault's" insurance company.  

Q:  How much coverage do I have?

A: Florida Law requires every insurance policy holder to have a minimum of $10,000 of PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage.  Most people have 80% coverage, although some plans have 100% coverage.  If you are not "at-fault" in your accident, you have 100% coverage.

Q:  Will my premiums increase because of my accident?

A:  If you are not "at-fault", it is illegal for your insurance company to raise your premium as a result of your accident.

Q: Who will pay for the damage to my car?

A:  The at-fault insurance will pay in a separate "collision" claim.   

Q:  Do I need an attorney?

A:  If you would like to consult with an attorney, that is entirely up to you.  We do not advise you on legal matters, nor do we require you to retain an attorney for your care.  We do not provide legal advise and this information is for general knowledge.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (727)  733-1601.

Dr. Drew D. Kycynka, DC

Coastal Chiropractic Dunedin.