Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, the rise in rideshare vehicles on the road has also led to more collisions and injuries. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries suffered in these types of accidents. In Maryland, victims with severe whiplash may need extensive medical treatment and care.
Whiplash Overview
Whiplash happens when the head is suddenly jolted backwards and then forwards in a whip-like motion. This often occurs during rear-end collisions. Whiplash can result in severe pain, stiffness, headaches, arm numbness, and restricted mobility in the neck. More serious whiplash cases can even lead to neurological damage. The symptoms may worsen over time if left untreated.
Establishing Severity
Not all whiplash injuries are equal. Mild whiplash may heal within a few weeks or months. However, moderate to severe whiplash often requires much longer recovery periods. Diagnostic testing like MRI scans can help determine if there is disc, ligament, or nerve damage. Patients may also undergo a range of motion assessments and pain level evaluations. Documentation of the injury’s impact on daily functioning is also important.
The findings can then be used to categorize whiplash as grade 1, 2 or 3. Grade 3 whiplash involves structural damage and potentially long-lasting pain. Identifying severe whiplash is key for obtaining approval for extended medical treatment.
Proving Need for Long-Term Care
Severe whiplash often necessitates many months or even years of medical care in Maryland. This includes modalities like physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, acupuncture, prescription medications, epidural injections, and possibly surgery.
To qualify for extended benefits, the injured person must provide objective evidence from doctors that supports the need for ongoing care. This includes documentation of herniated discs, pinched nerves, limited range of motion, and unresolved pain symptoms. Detailed treatment plans with estimated timelines should be submitted.
Independent medical exams may also be requested. However, Maryland victims should ensure their treating doctors are kept informed so they can explain why extended care is still required.
Obtaining Approval in Maryland
In Maryland, car insurance policies must provide up to $2,500 in Personal Injury Protection to cover initial medical expenses. But severe whiplash cases will likely exceed that amount. Seeking underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage and filing a liability claim against the at-fault driver is often necessary.
Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney from Monge & Associates can help victims navigate the claims process. An attorney can communicate with insurers, apply pressure for appropriate settlements, and take legal action if needed. Having strong evidence and medical support makes it more likely extended treatment will be approved.
Rideshare accidents frequently result in whiplash injuries. But while mild whiplash heals relatively quickly, severe whiplash often requires ongoing medical care. Maryland car crash victims need to proactively build their case through objective testing data, detailed treatment plans, and documentation of impact on their life.
This provides the best chance of obtaining approval and coverage for necessary long-term treatment and maximizing recovery.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your case. We have offices in 32 locations and 19 states, including Maryland, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Call now for a free consultation on (888) 477-0597 if you have been hurt in an accident with a Lyft or Uber driver.