Been in an Auto Accident? Here’s What you Need to Know
A car accident can leave you feeling sore, stiff, and stressed, even when the collision seemed minor, auto insurance often pays for massage therapy. Neck pain, back pain, headaches, muscle tension, and whiplash symptoms are common after a motor vehicle accident and may sometimes take a day or two to appear.
The good news? Massage therapy is often used as an effective treatment after an auto accident and can be an important part of a recovery plan for accident-related muscle and soft-tissue pain.
And if you were injured in Oregon, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage may help pay for your medical treatment.
How Does PIP Work in Oregon?
Oregon requires auto insurance policies to include at least $15,000 in PIP coverage per person. PIP can cover reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to injuries from a motor vehicle accident, regardless of who was at fault. Oregon’s minimum PIP coverage generally applies to qualifying expenses incurred within two years of the injury.
This often includes treatment from healthcare providers such as massage therapists when the care meets your policy’s requirements. In Oregon, auto insurance often pays for massage therapy after an accident.
Auto Insurance Often Pays for Massage:
1. Contact your auto insurance company.
Let them know you were injured in a motor vehicle accident and ask to open a PIP claim.
2. Get your claim number.
Your insurance company can provide your claim information and explain your available benefits.
3. Tell your healthcare providers about the accident.
Give your providers your PIP information so they can determine how to handle billing.
4. Ask about massage therapy.
Massage therapy is commonly used after auto accidents to address muscle tension, soreness, stiffness, and other soft-tissue symptoms.
Insurance often covers massage therapy treatments.
Why Massage Therapy After a Car Accident?
The impact of a collision can cause muscles to tighten and guard injured areas. This can contribute to ongoing pain, stiffness, and limited movement.
Therapeutic massage can help relax tense muscles, improve mobility, ease discomfort, and support the body’s recovery. It can also complement other treatments such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or medical treatment.
If you’re experiencing neck pain, back pain, shoulder tension, headaches, or muscle soreness after an accident, ask your healthcare provider whether massage therapy may be appropriate for you.
Helpful Oregon Insurance Resources
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation provides helpful information about PIP coverage, medical expenses, and what to do after a car accident:
- Oregon Division of Financial Regulation – What to Do After an Accident
- Oregon Auto Insurance FAQs – PIP and Medical Bills
Most auto insurance covers accident-related massage therapy treatment. If you have Oregon PIP coverage, it usually covers appropriate medical treatment after your accident.
If you’ve been in a car accident and aren’t sure where to start, contacting your insurance company and asking about your PIP benefits is a great first step. Auto insurance can pay for massage therapy and can be very helpful.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not legal, medical, or insurance advice. Coverage varies by policy. Contact your insurance company to confirm your specific benefits.
