The availability of treatment for victims of motor vehicle accidents came to a halt in mid-March as a result of COVID-19, but the need for treatment did not. The personal injury lawyers at Miller Thomson LLP have been working with treatment providers to keep our clients' recoveries and claims moving forward.

In this post, we provide four tips to accessing and continuing your care during quarantine.

1. Virtual care

Our lawyers can refer you to trusted physiotherapy and occupational therapy clinics that are providing online assessments, treatments, and creating home exercise programs for patients. Psychologists are also providing therapy over video-conference and creating comfortable, virtual spaces for our clients. Even Independent Medical Examiners are preparing preliminary expert opinions by conducting patient interviews and watching movements over secure video platforms.

2. Call a health line before seeing a doctor

For more serious injuries, you may still need to see a doctor in person. However, in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is important to avoid unnecessary visits. Each province has a health line to call, where a health care professional can help determine whether you need to seek medical attention at a hospital or clinic.

3. Be diligent with "at home" exercises

Spending more time at home may mean moving less, and working without a proper ergonomic set up. This can cause increased stiffness and pain. It is important to remain diligent with home exercise programs provided by your doctor or physiotherapist to prevent injuries from worsening and delaying your recovery.

4. The gradual re-opening of treatment facilities

As most of Canada has entered the re-opening phase, many treatment facilities are now accessible in person. Due to heightened safety measures, clinics are seeing fewer patients to allow for appropriate physical distancing and cleaning procedures. Therefore, it is important to book appointments well in advance. Additionally, be sure to ask about the clinic's safety protocols so you can show up prepared and not be denied treatment for failing to comply.

If you or a loved one needs assistance with accessing care due to a motor vehicle accident, our Miller Thomson Personal Injury Group is ready to help. Our clients get the benefit of a large, national firm and all its resources - at the same competitive contingencies of the small boutique firms.

For more information about working with a personal injury lawyer, read our previous blog post.

Originally published July 8, 2020.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.