Recovering After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Evidence-based physiotherapy and rehabilitation for ICBC customers in Richmond. We help people recover from whiplash, concussion, fractures, dizziness, and other motor vehicle accident injuries so they can safely return to work, driving, sport, and everyday life.
Getting Started with Physiotherapy for ICBC Customers
Our team will:
✓ Complete your assessment and monitor your progress
✓ Bill ICBC directly for approved treatments
✓ No out-of-pocket cost for pre-approved physiotherapy treatment
What is Covered
If your motor vehicle accident occurred on or after April 1, 2019, ICBC generally provides pre-approved rehabilitation during the initial recovery period, including:
• 25 physiotherapy sessions
• 12 kinesiology sessions
No doctor’s referral needed. Coverage is valid for up to 12 weeks from the date of your accident. (Extensions may apply with medical justification.)
Recovering After a Car Accident
Whether you’re experiencing neck pain, back pain, dizziness, headaches, a concussion, fractures, or other injuries following a motor vehicle accident, early assessment and appropriate rehabilitation can help you recover safely and regain confidence in your daily activities.
At Richmond Central Physiotherapy, we focus on understanding your injury, restoring movement, and providing practical strategies that support long-term recovery rather than temporary symptom relief.
How Can We Help?
Motor vehicle accidents can affect many different parts of the body.
Explore the conditions below to learn more about symptoms, rehabilitation, and recovery.
Neck Pain
Neck pain, headaches, stiffness, and reduced movement.
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Concussion
Headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory, and concentration difficulties.
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Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vertigo, dizziness, balance problems, and motion sensitivity.
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Neck Pain
Pain and stiffness following a motor vehicle accident.
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Back Pain
Lumbar strain, disc injuries, and movement-related pain.
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Shoulder Injuries
Seatbelt injuries, rotator cuff injuries, and shoulder pain.
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Fracture Rehabilitation
Recovery after broken bones and orthopaedic surgery.
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Persistent Pain
Understanding ongoing symptoms and rebuilding confidence.
Learn More →
Our Rehabilitation Approach
At Richmond Central Physiotherapy, we believe successful rehabilitation involves more than reducing pain.
Our goal is to help you understand your injury, restore movement, rebuild strength, and regain confidence so you can safely return to work, recreation, and everyday life.
Rather than relying primarily on passive treatment, our rehabilitation programs emphasize education, progressive exercise, and individualized treatment plans that support long-term recovery.
Education
Understanding your injury is the first step toward recovery.
Exercise-Based Rehabilitation
Improve strength, mobility, balance, endurance, and confidence through progressive exercise.
Return to Function
Gradually return to work, driving, sport, and everyday activities.
Self-Management
Develop the knowledge and confidence to continue progressing independently after treatment.
Kinesiology
Some ICBC customers may benefit from kinesiology as part of their rehabilitation program.
Working alongside your physiotherapist, kinesiology can provide additional supervised exercise and conditioning to improve strength, endurance, and confidence as you return to normal activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some ICBC customers may benefit from kinesiology as part of their rehabilitation program.
Working alongside your physiotherapist, kinesiology can provide additional supervised exercise and conditioning to improve strength, endurance, and confidence as you return to normal activities.
ICBC FAQs
Q: Do I need a referral from a doctor?
A: Many people can begin physiotherapy after reporting their motor vehicle accident without first obtaining a doctor’s referral.
Q: What should I bring to my first appointment?
A: Your ICBC claim number and a piece of photo identification.
Q: How many physiotherapy sessions are covered?
A: ICBC generally provides an initial block of pre-approved physiotherapy treatment. If additional rehabilitation is clinically appropriate, we can submit a request for further treatment.
Q: Does ICBC only cover physiotherapy?
A: No. Depending on your injuries and individual circumstances, ICBC may also provide access to other healthcare professionals and rehabilitation services. Coverage and eligibility vary between claims. If additional services are appropriate, we’ll help guide you through the process.
Q: Does ICBC cover medical equipment or travel expenses?
A: Depending on your claim, ICBC may cover certain medically necessary expenses such as braces, crutches, mobility aids, medical equipment, and travel costs related to treatment. Some items require approval from your ICBC claims representative.
Q: Can ICBC help if I’m unable to work?
A: Depending on your circumstances, ICBC may provide income replacement benefits if your injuries prevent you from working. Eligibility and payment amounts are determined by ICBC. Our role is to support your recovery and provide clinical documentation when appropriate.
Q: What if I need help with daily activities after my accident?
A: Some individuals with more significant injuries may be eligible for personal care assistance or caregiver support. Eligibility is determined by ICBC based on your functional needs and recovery.
Q: What happens if I have a permanent impairment?
A: If your injuries result in a permanent impairment, ICBC may assess your eligibility for additional benefits. While we do not determine impairment awards, we can provide ongoing rehabilitation and clinical documentation to support your recovery.
Q: What if I have a serious or life-altering injury?
A: Individuals with serious injuries may require a longer rehabilitation program involving multiple healthcare professionals. We work collaboratively with your healthcare team and ICBC to help support your rehabilitation and long-term recovery.
Book Your ICBC Appointment Today
Call us at (604) 270-0158 or Book Online to schedule your first ICBC treatment.
Visit us at Richmond Central Physiotherapy – conveniently located with free parking.