If you were recently involved in a car accident and sustained injuries that require physical therapy, you may be concerned about the costs associated with sessions. Physical therapy, while often beneficial and effective, can be expensive, especially when you are forced to cover copays out of your own pocket. If another party caused your accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your physical therapy. Continue reading and consult with a knowledgeable Washington D.C. injury attorney for experienced representation and legal counsel during your case.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a type of treatment that many individuals go through after sustaining injuries, undergoing surgery, or developing a disease. Injuries sustained in accidents often require physical therapy, such as damage to bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Physical therapy uses a combination of exercises, stretches, massage techniques, and other tactics to help patients recover strength, mobility, and functionality. In many cases, physical therapy is a long-term and expensive treatment. While often necessary, it can result in a significant financial strain for victims.
Can I Recover Compensation for Physical Therapy After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you have multiple options when attempting to recover compensation for the cost of physical therapy after an accident. First of all, Washington, D.C. is a modified no-fault jurisdiction, meaning that insurance providers are required to offer PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage. This is a no-fault coverage that can reimburse you for medical and injury-related expenses after an accident, regardless of who caused the collision. However, drivers are not required to opt into PIP and can forgo the coverage if they choose.
If you carry PIP coverage, you can seek reimbursement for physical therapy through your own insurer. Because it is a medical expense, it will generally be covered, given that you have not exceeded your policy limits.
You can also recover compensation for the cost of physical therapy through a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party. A personal injury claim can recover compensation for all of your damages associated with the accident, including loss of wages, physical pain and suffering, property damage, emotional distress, and medical expenses such as physical therapy costs.
How Can I Recover Compensation?
Personal injury claims and lawsuits are based on negligence and liability. You must be able to demonstrate that the other party was responsible for the accident and is therefore liable for the associated damages. To prove their negligence, you must establish the following.
- The other driver owed you a duty of care
- The other driver breached the duty of care
- The breach of duty caused the accident and your injury
- You suffered actual damages as a result, such as financial loss due to physical therapy
Personal injury law can be complex, and you must present a variety of evidence and documentation when seeking compensation. Work with a skilled attorney for legal advice during your case.