What To Do When You Get Into a Car Accident
Have you been hurt or injured in a Motor Vehicle Accident and need help? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back.
One of the most common experiences after an accident is not knowing what comes next. To some, it might be obvious? But when you’re in pain and you have to suddenly figure out paperwork and treatment options and car repairs, things can get overwhelming. Take a deep breath, and know that we’re here to relieve some of that pressure. This blog is going to break down the paperwork and treatment options of the first 90 days following your accident (also known as “the protocol period”).
Open Your Injury Claim
Step 1: Contact your insurance.
Step 2: Complete your AB-1 Form.
An AB-1 form is the claim form that activates your injury claim. It gives your insurance the details of what happened, where it happened, and what injuries/symptoms you’re experiencing.
The AB-1 form should be completed and submitted to your insurance within 10 business days. Luckily the form is fairly straight forward and readily available (you can even google it!). You can get a copy from your car insurance company, via the internet on the Government of Alberta website, or at the front desk of our office! Did you know that our admin team members are available to help you fill out this form? Just ask us when you book your appointment. This is especially helpful for our clients experiencing concussion symptoms, neck pain, or anyone who has difficulty with filling out forms in general.
90 Days of Protocol
Your protocol period is the first 90 days, starting with Day 1 as your accident date. Everyone receives a specific number of treatments to complete within that 90 day period according to the type of injury. With a few exceptions, these treatments within the 90 day period are fully covered by your car insurance.
Step 3: Have your injuries assessed by a Physician (Family Doctor), a Physiotherapist, or a Chiropractor.
Step 4: An AB-2 Form will be completed after the assessment to provide information on your injuries and the treatment plan recommended to heal them.
Step 5: Begin your treatment!
At the end of the assessment, you’ll be informed of the number of treatments your injury qualifies for. No matter who assesses you, your covered treatments can consist of a mixture of: Acupuncture, Physiotherapy, Massage, and Chiropractic treatments. (Note: your car insurance generally only covers 1 assessment so you may have to pay privately for additional assessments when attending different clinics.)
Once you’re finished your approved number of treatments or the 90 day period (whichever comes first) your primary treatment provider will complete an AB-4 Form.
Step 6: The AB-4 Form will let your insurance know where your injuries started and where you’re at in your recovery process. This form also makes recommendations for treatment going forward if you’re not fully recovered.
Have more questions or need clarification? Call us today at 780-424-4804 and talk to our experts on the Admin Team! Ready to get your treatment started? Book your assessment online and let us help you start your recovery journey.
- Written by Ronnie from Corona Station Physical Therapy located in downtown Edmonton