How to Navigate Your Insurance Benefits After a Car Accident in Kansas and Missouri

Understanding insurance benefits after a car accident in Kansas or Missouri is crucial to ensure you get the care you need without facing unexpected financial burdens.

Lance Stevenson, DC

4/22/20252 min read

Understanding the Basics of Auto Insurance in Kansas and Missouri

Both Kansas and Missouri have specific laws about car insurance coverage, especially when it comes to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments (MedPay). Here’s a breakdown of what these coverages entail:

  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP): In Kansas, PIP is mandatory for all drivers. This coverage helps pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to injuries after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Missouri, however, does not require PIP, but many drivers opt to carry it for added protection.

  • Medical Payments (MedPay): Both Kansas and Missouri allow drivers to add MedPay coverage to their policies. MedPay covers immediate medical bills related to the accident, including chiropractic care, physical therapy, and diagnostic imaging.

How Your Insurance Benefits Help Pay for Chiropractic Care

If you've been injured in a car accident in Kansas or Missouri, you may wonder how your chiropractic care is covered. Chiropractic treatments are often covered under PIP or MedPay policies. However, the extent of coverage depends on your specific plan.

  • Kansas: PIP coverage in Kansas typically covers chiropractic care and other medical expenses up to a certain limit. The minimum required coverage is $4,500, but drivers can purchase additional coverage for greater protection.

  • Missouri: In Missouri, where PIP is not mandatory, MedPay will cover chiropractic care up to the limits of your policy, which can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on your plan.

Maximizing Your Insurance Benefits

To maximize your insurance benefits for chiropractic care, consider the following tips:

  • Check Your Coverage: Review your policy to see if you have PIP or MedPay coverage. If you don’t, consider adding it for future protection.

  • Submit Claims Promptly: After an accident, file your insurance claim as soon as possible. Delayed submissions can result in denied claims or reduced coverage.

  • Work with Your Chiropractor: Chiropractors can help navigate the paperwork and ensure your treatments are properly documented for insurance purposes. They may also work directly with your insurance company to process claims.

FAQs:

  • Does Kansas require PIP coverage for chiropractic care? Yes, PIP is mandatory in Kansas, and it typically covers chiropractic treatments, including spinal adjustments and rehabilitation.

  • What’s the difference between PIP and MedPay in Missouri? In Missouri, PIP is not required, but MedPay can be purchased as an optional coverage that helps cover medical bills for chiropractic care, physical therapy, and diagnostic tests.

  • Can chiropractic care be included in an auto accident claim? Yes, if you have PIP or MedPay coverage, chiropractic care is often included in your auto accident claim, provided it is deemed medically necessary.

  • How do I know if my chiropractic care is covered by my insurance? Your chiropractor can help verify your insurance coverage and submit claims directly to your insurer on your behalf.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational purposes only. For specific details regarding your insurance benefits, please contact your insurance provider.