Rehabilitation after an accident

In plain English: rehabilitation is the treatment and support that helps you recover as much as possible after an injury. It can include physio, occupational therapy, psychological therapy, speech therapy, pain management and help getting back to work.

Don't wait for the claim to finish

A common worry is that getting better will reduce your compensation. The opposite is usually true. The law expects you to take reasonable steps to recover, and refusing sensible treatment can reduce your award under the rules on mitigation of damages. Early rehab also tends to give better medical outcomes, which is what matters most.

Getting it paid for

England and Wales: the Rehabilitation Code, a voluntary code most insurers follow, encourages early assessment of your needs and insurer-funded treatment while the claim is still ongoing. In serious cases, a case manager may coordinate everything. Ask your solicitor to raise it early.

Canada: in provinces with no-fault accident benefits, including Ontario, your own auto insurer pays medical and rehabilitation benefits up to set limits, usually after a treatment plan is approved.

US: PIP or MedPay, health insurance and workers' compensation are the usual sources while the claim is running. Whoever pays often has a lien or right to repayment from your settlement.

What good rehab looks like

• An assessment that looks at your whole life, not only the injured body part.
• Clear goals you've agreed to, like returning to work part time or driving again.
• Psychological support if you're struggling with anxiety, low mood or flashbacks.
• A plan for work, including phased hours or changed duties.
• Regular reviews, with the plan changed if it isn't working.

How rehab affects the claim

The cost of reasonable rehab is usually recoverable from the at-fault party. Your rehab records also become strong evidence: they show how hard you've worked to recover and exactly where your limits are. If the insurer funds treatment directly, that amount normally comes off your final settlement, which is fair enough, but make sure you know the running total.

Next: occupational therapy · future care costs · the claims process.

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