Before Settling a Traffic Accident, Finish Your Treatment First
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A hasty settlement can backfire
After a traffic accident, insurance companies often propose a quick settlement. However, if you settle before treatment is fully complete, it becomes very difficult to be reimbursed for additional medical costs that arise later. Aftereffects of a traffic accident frequently appear weeks or even months after the event.
Things to confirm before settling
- Treatment closure: Continue treatment until your medical team confirms it is complete
- Permanent disability evaluation: If chronic pain or functional limitations remain, obtain a permanent disability diagnosis
- Future medical costs: Include estimated future treatment costs in the settlement amount
- Compensation for distress: Compensation for pain, daily-life inconvenience, and emotional damage is also part of the settlement
Auto insurance and Korean medicine clinic treatment
Under Korea's Automobile Liability Insurance Act, treatment costs are paid by the at-fault party's insurer. The same applies to Korean medicine clinics — acupuncture, chuna manipulation, herbal medicine, pharmacopuncture, and all other Korean medicine treatments are covered. Patients do not need to pay out of pocket.
Treatment records are the basis for your settlement
At settlement, the medical record detailing treatment duration, content, and progress is critical evidence. Please attend visits consistently and accurately report symptom changes to your Korean medicine doctor. Well-maintained treatment records strongly support fair compensation.
Seek professional help when needed
If the settlement process is complex or communicating with the insurer is difficult, consulting a lawyer specialized in traffic accidents is also a good option. Our clinic provides guidance on insurance procedures alongside treatment, so please feel free to ask.