If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may need physical therapy to heal. But you may also wonder, “Does my insurance cover this?” That’s a smart question to ask. Medical bills add up quickly, and physical therapy can be a crucial part of your recovery.
This blog breaks down everything you need to know about insurance coverage for physical therapy after a car accident. We’ll explain your options, how to file claims, and what to do if coverage is denied—all in clear, simple language.
Understanding Physical Therapy After an Accident
Physical therapy helps restore strength, movement, and flexibility after an injury. Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck stiffness, or soft tissue injuries, physical therapy plays a key role in your recovery process.
Unlike pain medications, physical therapy addresses the root cause of your injury. It not only helps you feel better but also improves your long-term health and prevents future complications.
Therapy may include exercises, manual therapy, massage, electrical stimulation, and even aquatic rehab. However, these sessions often require multiple visits per week over several months. That’s where the cost can add up—and where insurance becomes essential.
How No-Fault Insurance (PIP) Works in New York
In New York, drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) as part of their auto insurance. PIP is also known as no-fault insurance because it pays for your medical treatment regardless of who caused the accident.
PIP typically covers:
- Hospital visits
- Doctor appointments
- Diagnostic tests
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
In most cases, PIP will cover your physical therapy up to a certain limit, usually $50,000 per person. That includes medical expenses and lost wages.
So yes, PIP does cover physical therapy—but you must act quickly and follow the proper steps to get the benefits you deserve.
Steps to Get Physical Therapy Covered
To make sure insurance covers your physical therapy, follow these important steps:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: See a doctor right after the accident. A delay in treatment may raise red flags with the insurance company.
- Get a Prescription for Physical Therapy: Your doctor must recommend and prescribe physical therapy in writing.
- Stay In-Network When Possible: Use medical providers who accept PIP coverage and are within your insurance network.
- Submit All Paperwork on Time: There are strict deadlines to file your claim, usually within 30 days of the accident in New York.
- Keep Copies of All Records: Save medical reports, prescriptions, and receipts. These documents support your claim.
Following these steps gives you the best chance of getting your therapy paid for in full.
What Happens When PIP Runs Out?
Unfortunately, $50,000 in PIP coverage doesn’t always go far, especially if your injuries are serious. Once you exhaust your PIP benefits, you may have a few options:
- Health Insurance: If you have private or employer-based health insurance, it may pick up the remaining costs.
- Medical Payment Coverage (MedPay): Some policies include this add-on to help cover medical costs beyond PIP.
- Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver: If your injuries are severe, you may sue the other driver for damages, including medical expenses.
Your attorney can help determine which route makes the most sense for your situation.
What If the Insurance Company Denies Coverage?
Sometimes, insurers deny claims for physical therapy. They may argue that it’s not medically necessary or that it should have ended sooner. If that happens:
- Ask your doctor to write a letter explaining why the treatment is still necessary
- File an internal appeal with the insurance company
- Request an independent medical review
- Speak with a personal injury attorney to fight the denial
Don’t accept a denial without a fight. Insurers often count on people giving up. But with proper documentation and legal help, you can get the coverage you’re entitled to.
How Long Does Insurance Cover Physical Therapy?
There’s no fixed time limit on how long insurance will pay for physical therapy. Coverage depends on:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your doctor’s treatment plan
- Your progress in recovery
- Your available PIP benefits
As long as your medical provider deems therapy necessary and you haven’t exceeded your policy limits, coverage can continue. That’s why it’s important to attend every session and follow your therapist’s recommendations.
Should You Pay Out of Pocket for Physical Therapy?
In most cases, no. You should exhaust all insurance options first. Paying out of pocket for therapy can get expensive quickly—each session can cost between $75 and $250.
However, if you’ve maxed out your benefits and still need treatment, talk to your provider. Many physical therapists offer payment plans or discounts for cash patients.
Also, your lawyer may negotiate a medical lien, meaning your therapist agrees to get paid from your future settlement instead of charging you upfront.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in Getting Therapy Covered
Insurance companies don’t always make it easy. They may delay payments, deny claims, or refuse certain treatments. That’s why having a personal injury attorney on your side is essential.
Your attorney will:
- Make sure all paperwork is filed on time
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Dispute any denied claims
- Gather evidence to prove your therapy is necessary
- Help pursue additional compensation if needed
At Mesadieu Law, we fight to make sure your physical therapy is fully covered, so you can focus on healing.
Can You Get Compensation for Future Physical Therapy?
Yes, if your injuries are long-lasting, you may be entitled to compensation for future therapy sessions. This is especially common in serious cases involving permanent injuries, surgeries, or long-term disability.
To prove future medical needs, your attorney may:
- Obtain expert medical opinions
- Present your treatment plan as part of the lawsuit
- Include future therapy costs in your settlement demand
Don’t settle your case without considering long-term care. Once your case is closed, you can’t go back for more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Physical Therapy Claims
Many accident victims unknowingly make mistakes that cost them coverage. Here are some to avoid:
- Delaying treatment
- Missing therapy sessions
- Not getting a written referral
- Ignoring insurer deadlines
- Talking to the insurance adjuster without a lawyer
Play it smart. Take your recovery seriously and let a legal team handle the insurance red tape.
FAQs About Insurance and Physical Therapy After a Car Accident
Is physical therapy always covered after an accident?
Generally, yes—if prescribed by a doctor and within your policy’s limits.
Can I choose my own physical therapist?
Yes, but check if they accept PIP and are in-network for your health insurance.
What if I need therapy but can’t afford it?
Speak with a personal injury lawyer. They may be able to arrange treatment with no upfront costs.
Will a gap in therapy hurt my case?
Yes. Insurance companies may argue that you didn’t need it. Stay consistent.
Do I need a lawyer to get physical therapy covered?
Not always—but having one increases your chances of success, especially if your claim is denied.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Health and Your Rights
Physical therapy can make the difference between a full recovery and a lifetime of pain. That’s why it’s critical to make sure insurance pays what it owes.
From getting a doctor’s referral to filing insurance claims, the process can be frustrating. But with the right guidance, you can make it through. Don’t let paperwork, delays, or denied claims stand between you and your recovery.
Call 844-3-RIGHT-BY-YOU (844) 374-4482. Mesadieu Law. Right By You.