One of the most important considerations after an accident is how you will be compensated for your various expenses. Physical therapy is often beneficial after an injury, but it can be costly. To learn whether physical therapy expenses can be covered under a personal injury claim, read on and speak with a knowledgeable Pikeville, KY personal injury lawyer today.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a method of treating an injury or disease. It mainly focuses on improving or restoring the body’s physical function, mobility, and pain management. Therapists customize exercises, activities, stretches, and movements to each individual’s needs in an effort to treat an issue.
Physical therapy often involves exercise therapy, massage, heat, cold, electrical stimulation, and more to promote healing and prevent future injuries. It is often beneficial for individuals who have sustained injuries or have recently undergone surgery.
Does PIP Limit My Right to Sue?
Kentucky is a choice no-fault accident state, meaning that all drivers are automatically enrolled in Personal Injury Protection (PIP). Under this system, when an individual is involved in a car accident, they must file a claim through their own insurance provider’s no-fault coverage. PIP provides compensation for injury-related expenses like medical costs, lost wages, transportation to doctor appointments, etc. However, this coverage is optional. Drivers can choose to opt out and reject the no-fault coverage by filing a form with the Kentucky Department of Insurance.
The no-fault system does limit a driver’s right to sue after being involved in an accident. Because PIP covers your injury-related expenses, you can only pursue a claim or lawsuit against the other driver if your injuries exceed certain thresholds. These thresholds include medical expenses of $1,000 or more, a broken bone, permanent disfigurement, permanent injury, or death.
Is Physical Therapy Covered Under a Personal Injury Claim in KY?
Physical therapy is often a necessary treatment for an injury. Because it is a medical expense, the cost of physical therapy can be covered by no-fault PIP. If you do not have PIP coverage or if your expenses exceed the threshold for a serious injury, your personal injury claim or lawsuit can also include physical therapy.
Physical therapy often takes months or even years to complete, and insurance coverage and co-pays for sessions can add up. Recovering compensation for these costs is important to protect your rights and ensure you are not disadvantaged if the accident was not your fault.
Because it has a tangible numeric value attached to it, physical therapy is considered an economic damage in terms of personal injury law. Whether you recover compensation through PIP or a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver, physical therapy can be included in your expenses.
For more information and to secure skilled legal advice during your case, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Shane Hall, Attorney at Law, PLLC today.
