Review the collision
We discuss impact direction, timing, symptoms and care you have already received.
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Evaluation after a collision
Auto Accident & Whiplash Care in Lehi, Utah
After a car accident, pain and stiffness may be obvious right away or become more noticeable in the hours and days that follow. Dr. Peterson evaluates common accident-related concerns including whiplash, neck pain, back pain, headaches, muscle soreness, stiffness and changes in movement.
Your visit begins with a history and examination to understand what happened, identify areas that may have been injured and determine an appropriate plan for care. If your examination suggests that additional medical evaluation or imaging is needed, we'll discuss that with you.
What it is and why we use it
Care With a Specific Purpose
An auto injury visit includes a detailed history of the collision, symptom review and an examination tailored to the affected areas. We document relevant findings and monitor changes over time.
When conservative care is appropriate, the plan may combine gentle joint care, soft-tissue treatment and graded movement. Treatment is adjusted as sensitivity and function change.
Understanding PIP After a Car Accident in Utah
Utah auto insurance includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP), commonly called no-fault coverage. PIP is designed to provide certain benefits for injuries from an auto accident regardless of which driver caused the crash.
For an injured person covered under the applicable Utah auto policy, medical expenses are generally submitted first to the insurance company providing PIP coverage. Utah's minimum PIP medical-expense benefit is $3,000 per person, although some policies may provide higher limits.
This means you generally do not have to wait for the insurance companies to determine who caused the accident before seeking appropriate care. Whether a particular service or expense is covered depends on your policy, eligibility, the claim and applicable insurance requirements and limits.
If you have questions about using PIP for care at our office, contact us. We can help you understand what information we need from your insurance claim before treatment begins.
Clear Documentation and Progress Checks
Auto accident care often involves more documentation than a typical office visit. We document your history, examination findings, treatment and progress throughout care.
We also reassess how you're responding rather than placing every accident patient on the same predetermined treatment schedule.
Already Working With an Attorney?
You are welcome to receive care at our office regardless of which attorney or law firm you are working with. With your authorization, our office can provide appropriate records and documentation related to your care.
If you have questions about your legal rights or your accident involves issues that may require legal advice, we can provide information for attorneys who handle auto accident cases. You are always free to choose your own attorney, and receiving care at our office is not dependent on using a particular law firm.
Your visit
What the Process Looks Like
Screen carefully
The examination looks for musculoskeletal findings and signs that require medical evaluation.
Begin gradually
If appropriate, care starts within your current tolerance and progresses as you improve.
Document progress
We record functional changes, symptoms, recommendations and referrals.
During and after care
What You Can Expect
- A focused accident and health history
- Range-of-motion and relevant neurological or orthopedic testing
- A clear explanation of whether chiropractic care is appropriate
- Coordination or referral when another provider is needed
Safety first
When We Modify or Refer
Seek emergency care for severe or worsening headache, loss of consciousness, confusion, repeated vomiting, new weakness or numbness, difficulty walking, chest pain, shortness of breath or other urgent symptoms. Chiropractic care does not replace emergency or medical evaluation after serious trauma.
Common questions
Auto Accident Care FAQs
Should I come in even if symptoms seem mild?
A timely evaluation can help document symptoms and identify whether self-care, conservative treatment or medical follow-up is appropriate.
Will I be adjusted right away?
Not automatically. Recent trauma requires screening first. Treatment is provided only when the findings support it and you consent.
Do you work with accident claims?
Call the office with your claim information so we can explain current documentation, billing and scheduling procedures.
Can I receive treatment if the accident wasn't my fault?
Yes. Utah's PIP system is designed to provide certain no-fault benefits to eligible people injured in auto accidents, meaning PIP benefits are not based simply on which driver caused the crash. Coverage for specific treatment depends on the applicable policy, claim eligibility and insurance requirements.
Do I need to wait for the insurance companies to decide who was at fault?
Generally, no. For an eligible person covered by PIP, medical expenses are submitted through the applicable PIP coverage without first requiring a final determination of fault. Contact your insurer promptly after an accident and confirm the details of your claim and available benefits.
Can I receive care if I already have an attorney?
Yes. Patients who already have an attorney are welcome. With your authorization, our office can provide appropriate records and documentation related to your care.
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Ready to talk?
Find Out Whether Auto Accident Care Fits Your Goals
Book online, or call the office if you would like help choosing the right starting appointment.