Friday, June 21, 2013

Why should i get an attorney after an Auto/Car accident for my injuries?

An attorney helps with all aspects of an auto/car accident claim or injury. They keep an individual from spending countless hours on the phone with insurance adjusters that really don't care about your well being. It also helps to keep stress levels down and allow you to concentrate on recovery and getting well. Our office only works with the best attorneys/lawyers in Dallas/Fort Worth. We have learned through trial and error, who best takes care of our patients. They also make sure that all your medical bills are settled. This allows you to be additionally stress and medical bill free at the end. We also help those who are not able to treat in our office, who are in need of an attorney. We are here to help!!! So don't hesitate in calling and making an appointment to get examined and also ask about scheduling a free consultation with a reputable attorney. You only have one body, so you need to take care of it. Call Today!!! (972)215-7720

There's still hope even if the Auto/Car Accident was your fault!

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

The Texas Department of Insurance requires automobile insurance carriers in our state to issue all automobile policies it writes at least $2500 worth of coverage and you have this coverage unless you reject it in writing. Most people are unaware of this coverage or even know what it is and therefore very few people use it. You end up paying for coverage that they don’t inform you about and you’re entitled to.

Why? Insurance is not understood and most people rely on their agent and claims adjusters to advise them on what to do after an accident. Insurance is a multi-billion dollar industry and are in business to make money. They keep their costs down, less payout, more profits and bonuses at the end of the year. Good for them and not for you.


What is PIP?

PIP is no fault coverage similar to health insurance but on your auto policy for your injuries and your passengers injuries. This coverage is available regardless who is at fault. Yes, you can be the cause of the accident and you will still be covered. There’s no deductible and no co-payment. There is other separate coverage that will cover the other party if you were at fault. If you do not have PIP then you could still be covered if you were in an accident in another state besides Texas. You may also be covered if you were hit in a crosswalk by a car or on a bicycle or borrowing someone else’s car.

What will a claim do to my insurance rates and policy renewal?
Under section 5.7016 of the Texas insurance code, automobile insurance carriers cannot non-renew you for filing one PIP claim in a 12 month period. Also, it is unlikely that they would raise your rates for a sole PIP claim.
Why doesn’t the other guy’s insurance pay for my medical expenses and why should I use my insurance?

Medical treatment is expensive and you are liable for the costs. There is a chance that the other party may never pay for your medical expenses leaving you a financial burden. PIP gives you peace of mind that your medical bills are covered. If you use your health insurance, you may have to pay a deductible and co-pays to your doctor and if the health insurance finds out that you were in an accident they could request to be reimbursed. Some people get referred to a medical provider by their attorney and the medical provider agrees to be paid months or even years later. Since there are a limited number of medical providers who agree to this arrangement, your choice and quality of healthcare may be limited. The answer is to use your PIP coverage so you will not have to pay for medical expenses out of your pocket and get the best possible healthcare treatment available for you and your family’s injuries caused by the accident.

EXTREMITY PAIN, NUMBNESS and TINGLING

Extremity symptoms such as arm and hand pain, numbness and tingling are common following motor vehicle accidents (MVA's). They are caused by thoracic outlet syndrome, myofascial adhesions, muscular trigger points, and spinal disc lesions. It's important to note that these symptoms are commonly not experienced until weeks or even months after the injury. A study, published in the Britain Journal of Rheumatology, involved 37 motor vehicle injury patients and found 35% had an onset of arm and hand symptoms (upper extremity symptoms) beyond 3 months of the accident.
This reinforces the need for proper and full treatment of MVA injuries. Failure to receive appropriate treatment (where injured tissues are fully healed and tissue functioning is adequately restored) is a major contributor to the development of these symptoms.

Migraines and Headaches

Migraines and headaches are NOT the result of an Aspirin shortage. They are NOT normal, and everyone does NOT have them.
A frequent and overlooked cause of Migraines and other headaches is the malfunction of the spinal bones in the neck and upper back.

When the bones of the spine lose their normal position or motion, sensitive nerves and blood vessels to the head can be affected. When spinal nerves and related tissues are stretched or irritated, they can produce Migraines and other types of headaches. Aspirin and other medications may cover up these warning signs, but do not correct the underlying structural CAUSE.

Many people experience correction and long term relief through Chiropractic care, without the short and long term side effects that accompany ALL pain medications.
Call our office to have your type of Migraine or Headache diagnosed and discover the life changing experience many of our Migraine / Headache patients have found.

The Docs at North Dallas Chiropractic

Whiplash

Whiplash is a generic term applied to injuries of the neck caused when the neck is suddenly and/or violently jolted in one direction and then another, creating a whip-like movement. Whiplash is most commonly seen in people involved in motor vehicle accidents, but it can also occur from falls, sports injuries, work injuries, and other incidents.

What structures are injured in a whiplash?
Whiplash injuries most often result in sprain-strain of the neck. The ligaments that help support, protect, and restrict excessive movement of the vertebrae are torn, which is called a sprain. The joints in the back of the spine, called the facet joints, are covered by ligaments called facet capsules, which seem to be particularly susceptible to whiplash injury.

In addition, the muscles and tendons are strained—stretched beyond their normal limits. The discs between the vertebrae, which are essentially ligaments, can be torn, potentially causing a disc herniation. The nerve roots between the vertebrae may also be stretched and become inflamed. Even though it is very rare, vertebrae can be fractured and/or dislocated in a whiplash injury.

What are the common signs and symptoms of whiplash?
The most common symptoms of whiplash are pain and stiffness in the neck. These symptoms are generally found in the areas that are “whiplashed.” For example, during a whiplash, first the head is lifted up from the upper-cervical spine. This creates a sprain/strain in the region just below the skull, where symptoms usually occur. Symptoms may also commonly be seen in the front and back of the neck. Turning the head often makes the pain and discomfort worse.

Headache, especially at the base of the skull, is also a common symptom, seen in more than two thirds of patients. These headaches may be one-sided (unilateral) or experienced on both sides (bilateral). In addition, the pain and stiffness may extend down into the shoulders and arms, upper back, and even the upper chest.

In addition to the musculoskeletal symptoms, some patients also experience dizziness, difficulty swallowing, nausea, and even blurred vision after a whiplash injury. While these symptoms are disconcerting, in most cases, they disappear within a relatively short time. If they persist, it is very important to inform your doctor that they are not resolving. Vertigo (the sensation of the room spinning) and ringing in the ears may also be seen. In addition, some patients may feel pain in the jaw. Others will even complain of irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms also resolve quickly in most cases. In rare cases, symptoms can persist for weeks, months, or even years.

Another important and interesting aspect of whiplash is that the signs and symptoms often do not develop until 2 to 48 hours after the injury. This scenario is relatively common but not completely understood. Some speculate that it may be due to delayed muscle soreness, a condition seen in other circumstances.

How is whiplash treated?

Staying active
One of the most important aspects of whiplash management is for the patient to stay active, unless there is some serious injury that requires immobilization. Patients should not be afraid to move and be active, within reason. In addition, your doctor will often prescribe an exercise or stretching program. It is particularly important to follow this program as prescribed, so that you can achieve the best long-term benefits.

Chiropractic manipulation and physical therapy
Ice and/or heat are often used to help control pain and reduce the muscle spasm that results from whiplash injuries. Other physical therapy modalities, such as electrical stimulation and/or ultrasound, may provide some short-term relief. They should not, however, replace an active-care program of exercise and stretching. Spinal manipulation and/or mobilization provided by a chiropractor can also give relief in many cases of neck pain.

Can whiplash be prevented?
Generally speaking, whiplash cannot be “prevented,” but there are some things that you can do while in a motor vehicle that may reduce the chances of a more severe injury. Always wear restraints (lap or shoulder belt), and ensure that the headrest in your vehicle is adjusted to the appropriate height.

Neck and Mid Back Pain

 
Collisions that occur during sporting events, slips, falls or Automobile crashes can all have a damaging effect on your neck and back. Reduction of the normal neck (Cervical) curve, repetitive micro-traumas ie. long hours on the computer, driving in traffic, traveling by car or plane, lifting heavy or awkward objects or constant stress of work, family and everyday life can also be directly related to neck and back pain.

Pain can be dull or sharp, boring or burning, constant or intermittent. As the problem progresses, numbness and or tingling can be felt in the upper back, arms and even in to the hands.

NOTE: Many patients who come in for Carpal Tunnel treatment are amazed to find out that the problem is actually a pinching of the nerves in the neck and NOT a wrist or hand problem.

Through careful evaluation of your neck and upper back, we can pinpoint the problem areas and have great success in correcting the CAUSE of our Patients symptoms.

The Docs at North Dallas Chiropractic

Symptoms of Whiplash

Whiplash is a term used most often to describe the symptoms resulting from a car accident. A victim of whiplash may experience any or all of these symptoms:

* Headaches
* Pain in the shoulders
* Pain between the shoulder blades
* Pain in one or both arms
* Fatigue
* Dizziness
* Vision problems
* Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
* Poor concentration or memory
* Neck pain/stiffness
* Tight and/or sore muscles
* Tenderness in the muscles
* Low back pain
* Sleep disturbance
* Loss of motion in the neck

It's Best to See a Doctor
Even without symptoms, it is a very good idea to see a doctor in the case of a car accident. There can be damage without symptoms, or there can be delayed symptoms. Your doctor can help to determine the location and extent of the damage and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

According to a study done in 2006 at the Medical College of Wisconsin, whiplash due to a rear end collision can be prevented with positioning of the head close to the headrest

Auto/Car Accident Doctors and Pain Management Doctor in Dallas

 
Numerous studies have shown that years after whiplash victims settle their insurance claims, roughly half of them state that they still suffer with symptoms from their injuries.

 If you have been involved in a car accident, whiplash injuries need to be taken very seriously. Because symptoms of a whiplash injury can take weeks or months to manifest, it is easy to be fooled into thinking that you are not as injured as you really are.
Too often people don't seek treatment following a car accident because they don't feel hurt. By far, the most common injury to the neck is a whiplash injury.Whiplash is caused by a sudden movement of the head, either backward, forward, or sideways, that results in the damage to the supporting muscles, ligaments and other connective tissues in the neck and upper back.

Unfortunately, by the time more serious complications develop, some of the damage from the injury may have become permanent.Numerous studies have shown that years after whiplash victims settle their insurance claims, roughly half of them state that they still suffer with symptoms from their injuries. If you have been in a motor vehicle or any other kind of accident, don't assume that you escaped injury if you are not currently in pain. Contact us today!

What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

The Texas Department of Insurance requires automobile insurance carriers in our state to issue all automobile policies it writes at least $2500 worth of coverage and you have this coverage unless you reject it in writing. Most people are unaware of this coverage or even know what it is and therefore very few people use it. You end up paying for coverage that they don’t inform you about and you’re entitled to.

Why? Insurance is not understood and most people rely on their agent and claims adjusters to advise them on what to do after an accident. Insurance is a multi-billion dollar industry and are in business to make money. They keep their costs down, less payout, more profits and bonuses at the end of the year. Good for them and not for you.

What is PIP?

PIP is no fault coverage similar to health insurance but on your auto policy for your injuries and your passengers injuries. This coverage is available regardless who is at fault. Yes, you can be the cause of the accident and you will still be covered. There’s no deductible and no co-payment. There is other separate coverage that will cover the other party if you were at fault. If you do not have PIP then you could still be covered if you were in an accident in another state besides Texas. You may also be covered if you were hit in a crosswalk by a car or on a bicycle or borrowing someone else’s car.

What will a claim do to my insurance rates and policy renewal?

Under section 5.7016 of the Texas insurance code, automobile insurance carriers cannot non-renew you for filing one PIP claim in a 12 month period. Also, it is unlikely that they would raise your rates for a sole PIP claim.

Why doesn’t the other guy’s insurance pay for my medical expenses and why should I use my insurance?

Medical treatment is expensive and you are liable for the costs. There is a chance that the other party may never pay for your medical expenses leaving you a financial burden. PIP gives you peace of mind that your medical bills are covered. If you use your health insurance, you may have to pay a deductible and co-pays to your doctor and if the health insurance finds out that you were in an accident they could request to be reimbursed. Some people get referred to a medical provider by their attorney and the medical provider agrees to be paid months or even years later. Since there are a limited number of medical providers who agree to this arrangement, your choice and quality of healthcare may be limited. The answer is to use your PIP coverage so you will not have to pay for medical expenses out of your pocket and get the best possible healthcare treatment available for you and your family’s injuries caused by the accident.

Why should i be examined after a auto/car accident?

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

The most common symptoms related to whiplash include:

* neck pain and stiffness,

* headache,

* shoulder pain and stiffness,

* dizziness,

* fatigue,

* jaw pain (temporomandibular joint symptoms),

* arm pain,

* arm weakness,

* visual disturbances,

* ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and

* back pain.

In the more severe and chronic case of "whiplash associated disorder" symptoms can include:

* depression,

* anger,

* frustration,

* anxiety,

* stress,

* drug dependency,

* post-traumatic stress syndrome,

* sleep disturbance (insomnia),

* and

* social isolation.

How is whiplash diagnosed?

After an accident the patient may be taken to the hospital and/or a Chiropractor's office to be examined. The doctor will examine the patient to determine if they have any injuries that require treatment. Based on the symptoms and examination findings the doctor may place a collar on the neck for additional support. The doctor may also obtain x-rays of the neck to check for more serious injury. The most important first step is to make sure there is no major injury to the neck, head or the rest of the body requiring immediate treatment.

If the x-rays are normal but the patient continues to have neck pain, the doctor may keep the cervical collar in place and see the back in the office in about a week for an additional examination. At that time the doctor may obtain new x-rays to see if there have been any changes. If the doctor is still concerned about soft tissue injuries, he or she may obtain either x-rays with the head leaning forward and backwards (dynamic x-rays) or obtain an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging study). These dynamic x-rays or MRI scans are better able to detect injuries to the soft tissues of the neck, especially instability, that may not been seen with normal x-rays of the neck.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO DIAGNOSE AND TREAT MY INJURIES?

Essentially, it will cost you nothing! Like any other health care service, care is covered completely under the "medical benefits" section of your automobile insurance policy. All fees for this evaluation and treatment will be sent directly to your auto insurance company (or the person-at-fault's) for payment, alleviating any direct financial burden to you. In some cases there is both coverages that will further help to relieve any financial burden on you

CAN A MEDICAL DOCTOR DIAGNOSE MY INJURIES?

Yes, they can. However, diagnosing motor vehicle accident injuries are best left to a chiropractor. Chiropractors are trained to detect abnormal biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system that can lead to arthritis. Most agencies have a medical doctor on staff to insure that a more serious injury (such as a fracture) has not occurred, and to ensure that it is safe for you to engage in a program of physical rehab therapy that will follow. If necessary, medication may be prescribed.
You should have the most comprehensive treatment available in the healthcare community in one location. In the majority of cases, a chiropractic and medical physician will both document and report your injury.

CAN MEDICATIONS AND PAIN PILLS HELP ME GET BETTER?

Medications may mask the pain for a few hours, but they do not aid your body's ability to heal itself, and may hinder the healing process. Medications cannot correct the soft tissue damage that is caused by auto accidents. If you are only taking pills, irritated nerves will continue to cause pain, suffering, and the problems listed earlier. Therefore, the adverse effects of your injuries will continue to plague you until you seek treatment. In certain situations we will prescribe medication; however, pain medications alone will only mask the symptoms and not treat the problem.  They should be utilized to decrease your pain during the treatment process and allow you to give maximum effort to getting better in the office.  Our pain management doctor will aid us in your journey to get better.

CAN MY HEALTH BE COMPLETELY RESTORED?

Fortunately, health problems caused by automobile accidents can be relieved or eliminated through a proper program of restorative chiropractic care and physical rehab therapy. The goal is to restore your spine to its condition prior to your Motor Vehicle Accident. Many patients report that treatment has removed many of their aches and pains that they had before their injury, which their accident aggravated. Treatments can provide not only pain relief, but also long term correction. This approach minimizes the chance of spinal or nerve problems returning months or years later.
Your body, especially your head and neck, have likely suffered stress and trauma as a result of the collision. Here are some of the positive benefits to be gained from our program of restorative chiropractic care and physical rehab therapy.




  • Prevention of arthritis
  • Relief from head and neck pain
  • Stronger, more flexible muscles
  • Increased nerve supply to all areas of your body
  • Increased athletic ability
  • Decreased chance of re-injury
  • Increased overall health

SHOULD I SEE AN ATTORNEY BEFORE MY EVALUATION?

Patients have important legal as well as health care needs that need to be addressed. In most cases, it is important to be evaluated by a clinic first. That way the findings from your exam will give you the information you need in order to decide on which attorney is necessary.
If you already have an attorney, the office will send detailed reports to your attorney as you are undergoing treatment to keep your legal counsel apprised of your progress. Upon completion of treatment a final narrative report is then forwarded to the patient's attorney documenting any permanent damage or functional loss.

An attorney who specializes in injury accidents is a wise choice in these circumstances. They know the law and your rights and are better equipped to communicate with aggressive or intimidating insurance representatives to help you get the care and other benefits to which you are entitled. In these cases, the office can refer you to a reputable and qualified attorney.

WHAT IF THE INSURANCE COMPANY WANTS ME TO SETTLE?

It's recommended that you do not settle your case before a thorough evaluation by our office. If you settle before your injury is fully diagnosed and treated, you will be responsible for any medical bills you incur in the future.
Our office will work directly with insurance companies to assure that your claim will be effectively documented during your treatment.
  We also bill the insurance directly to help reduce the burden on your part.  It is important that you do not cash any checks that the insurance sends to your home.  In many cases, this will release them from any further liability in your care and you will be personally responsible for your medical bills.  If the insurance company is rushing you to settle then they are trying to reduce their liabilities and may leave you with all the bills.  This could ruin your credit if you have medical bills that are unpaid.  In these cases we can help you find a reputable attorney to help protect you from the insurance companies.

HOW MUCH TIME DO I HAVE TO REPORT AN INJURY FOLLOWING MY ACCIDENT?

The sooner you seek treatment following your injury, the better. If you wait beyond 30 days following your accident and then report an injury to the insurance company, they are much less likely to pay for your care.

WHAT KIND OF TREATMENT WILL I RECEIVE?

At most health centers, chiropractic care and physical rehab therapy are the foundation of treatment; however,  ultrasound, interferential current stimulation, traction, and rehabilitation are also used.
The staff also includes a Medical Pain Management Specialist, providing you with the most comprehensive treatment available. We also work with other health care professionals in the medical community and if we can't help you, a referral will be made.

DOES TREATMENT HURT?

Absolutely not. The treatments are very gentle and quite relaxing. Most patients look forward to their appointments.

What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

The Texas Department of Insurance requires automobile insurance carriers in our state to issue all automobile policies it writes at least $2500 worth of coverage and you have this coverage unless you reject it in writing. Most people are unaware of this coverage or even know what it is and therefore very few people use it. You end up paying for coverage that they don’t inform you about and you’re entitled to.

Why? Insurance is not understood and most people rely on their agent and claims adjusters to advise them on what to do after an accident. Insurance is a multi-billion dollar industry and are in business to make money. They keep their costs down, less payout, more profits and bonuses at the end of the year. Good for them and not for you.

What is PIP?

PIP is no fault coverage similar to health insurance but on your auto policy for your injuries and your passengers injuries. This coverage is available regardless who is at fault. Yes, you can be the cause of the accident and you will still be covered. There’s no deductible and no co-payment. There is other separate coverage that will cover the other party if you were at fault. If you do not have PIP then you could still be covered if you were in an accident in another state besides Texas. You may also be covered if you were hit in a crosswalk by a car or on a bicycle or borrowing someone else’s car.

What will a claim do to my insurance rates and policy renewal?

Under section 5.7016 of the Texas insurance code, automobile insurance carriers cannot non-renew you for filing one PIP claim in a 12 month period. Also, it is unlikely that they would raise your rates for a sole PIP claim.

Why doesn’t the other guy’s insurance pay for my medical expenses and why should I use my insurance?

Medical treatment is expensive and you are liable for the costs. There is a chance that the other party may never pay for your medical expenses leaving you a financial burden. PIP gives you peace of mind that your medical bills are covered. If you use your health insurance, you may have to pay a deductible and co-pays to your doctor and if the health insurance finds out that you were in an accident they could request to be reimbursed. Some people get referred to a medical provider by their attorney and the medical provider agrees to be paid months or even years later. Since there are a limited number of medical providers who agree to this arrangement, your choice and quality of healthcare may be limited. The answer is to use your PIP coverage so you will not have to pay for medical expenses out of your pocket and get the best possible healthcare treatment available for you and your family’s injuries caused by the accident.

HOW CAN I DETERMINE THE EXTENT OF MY INJURIES?

To determine the extent of your injuries and prevent their painful effects have an in-depth evaluation and consultation with a chiropractor and accident and personal injury specialist. Preferably, it should be one that's specially trained in diagnosing and treating spinal problems as a result of an automobile accident and can explain how much damage your body has sustained, as well as recommend what treatment he or she feels would be necessary and for how long.
A normal evaluation includes a complete examination including orthopedic and chiropractic testing, x-rays, computerized range of motion and muscle strength tests. If necessary, nerve conduction tests and diagnostic ultrasound tests are also performed to provide the most comprehensive diagnosis available.

If necessary, other diagnostic tests such as MRI and CAT Scans are performed as needed.