I was rear-ended by a semi-truck on October 17th. The state police completed a report and determined that the truck driver was at fault. The impact caused me to hit two other vehicles — I side-swiped a white BMW and collided with the corner of a truck before coming to a stop in the median. Immediately after the accident, I developed a severe headache. After exchanging information and involving the police, I went to the hospital, where they diagnosed me with a mild concussion.
The following day, I visited my primary care doctor, who recommended light duty for two weeks while my concussion symptoms improved. When I returned after that period and still experienced symptoms, she added an extra week to my recovery. Three weeks post-accident, I started noticing lower back pain, so I began massage and chiropractic therapy.
By November 15th, I was making good progress with my therapy. However, I started a full-time job at the beginning of the year, which made attending chiropractic sessions more difficult. I ended up stopping my treatments for about a month to a month and a half. February was particularly tough for me as I dealt with the flu and pneumonia, resulting in about three weeks off work.
Now I’m looking to resume therapy but I’m concerned about the impact of missing sessions on my potential settlement. I’m also considering hiring a lawyer and would appreciate any advice on my next steps.
I’m sorry to hear about your accident and the challenges you’ve been facing with your recovery. It’s definitely important to prioritize your health, and getting back into therapy seems like a good plan.
Regarding your concerns about the time you missed from therapy, it’s common for insurance companies to consider the consistency of care when assessing claims. However, many factors can come into play, such as the severity of your injuries, the documentation from your doctors, and any explanations you can provide about the gaps in your treatment (like your illness).
Here are a few steps you might consider:
Update Your Medical Providers: When you return to therapy, make sure to discuss your previous gaps in treatment with your chiropractor or any other medical providers. They can help document your current condition and how the prior gaps might have impacted your recovery.
Consult a Lawyer: Since you’re looking into getting a lawyer, it would be wise to do so as soon as possible. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation, help gather evidence, and advocate for you.
Keep Detailed Records: Maintain records of all your medical visits, treatments, and any communication with insurance companies or your lawyer. This documentation will be crucial for your case.
Continue Your Treatment: Focus on consistent therapy going forward. This will not only help you recover but also provide a stronger case for your settlement.
Be Honest About Your Recovery Process: When discussing your case, be transparent about your recovery journey and any interruptions. This honesty helps build trust and credibility.
Your health should be your top priority, so make sure you’re doing everything you can to recover fully. Good luck, and take care!