Rehab after a motor vehicle accident – what’s covered?

If you’ve recently been in a car accident, first — we’re glad you’re here.

Whether you walked away sore or were seriously shaken up, one thing is clear: your body took a hit, even if the injuries aren’t obvious right away.

The next question most people ask?
“What’s actually covered when it comes to rehab?”
And the answer can feel confusing — especially if it’s your first time dealing with insurance, adjusters, or paperwork.

At YFS (Your Form Sux), we help you recover physically and navigate the system. Here’s what you need to know about post-MVA rehab coverage — and how to make sure you don’t pay out of pocket for care you’re entitled to.

1. You’re Likely Covered Under Auto Insurance — Not Just Health Benefits

In Ontario (and most Canadian provinces), auto insurance includes accident benefits — which means rehab and recovery services are often covered regardless of who was at fault.

This includes:

• Physiotherapy
• Massage therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Psychological services (if needed)
• Occupational therapy
• Kinesiology / active rehab

✅ These services fall under Statutory Accident Benefits Coverage (SABS) in Ontario.

2. You Don’t Need a Referral to Start Rehab

You can book directly with a clinic like YFS that’s licensed to treat motor vehicle accident (MVA) cases.

Once you’ve notified your auto insurance provider and filed an accident report, we can submit the necessary paperwork (OCF forms) on your behalf.

👉 You don’t need to wait for a doctor’s referral to begin your treatment — and waiting can slow down your recovery.

3. What Injuries Are Common After an Accident?

Even minor collisions can lead to:

• Whiplash and neck pain
• Low back strain
• Shoulder or joint injuries from seatbelts
• Concussions or dizziness
• Nerve pain or numbness
• Headaches or jaw tension
• Emotional trauma (anxiety, PTSD)

⚠️ Some of these symptoms show up days or weeks after the crash — so early assessment is key.

4. What’s Typically Covered?

✅ Most accident benefit plans cover:

• Initial assessment and report
• Treatment sessions (physio, massage, chiro, etc.)
• Case management + coordination
• Assistive devices or braces, if prescribed
• Transportation (in some cases)
• Psych support for trauma or stress symptoms

The amount of funding available depends on your injury classification:

• Minor Injury Guideline (MIG): Up to $3,500 in care
• Non-MIG injuries: Higher coverage (e.g. $65,000+)
• Catastrophic injuries: Extended care and long-term rehab planning

We help you determine where your case falls — and ensure you access everything you’re entitled to.

5. What If You Already Used Your Work Benefits?

No problem — auto insurance is the primary coverage source after an MVA. That means your extended health benefits (EHB) only get used after accident benefits have been exhausted — not before.

At YFS, we help coordinate this so you’re not stuck with unexpected costs or paperwork headaches.

6. How Long Do You Have to Start Treatment?

You should file an accident benefits claim within 7 days of the accident and seek treatment as soon as possible.

The longer you wait:

• The harder it is to prove your symptoms came from the crash
• The more likely your recovery timeline gets extended
• The more stress you’ll feel trying to manage it all

👉 Even if the pain feels “manageable,” get assessed early — issues can worsen over time without the right care.

Final Word: You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Dealing with insurance, paperwork, and symptoms after a car accident can feel overwhelming — and honestly, the system isn’t always set up to make it easy.

But that’s where we come in.

At YFS, we handle the paperwork, talk to the adjusters, build your treatment plan, and — most importantly — focus on your full recovery, not just your injury.