If you have suffered a traffic accident in Málaga, it is essential for you to know that you have the right to choose the centre where you carry out your rehabilitation, regardless of what your insurance company suggests (as long as the centre adheres to the UNESPA Healthcare Assistance Agreement).

Here are the key points for managing your recovery in the province:

 

1. The process for starting rehabilitation

In order for the treatment to be free for you and covered by insurance, you must follow these steps:

  • A&E first: You must go to an Accident & Emergency department (Hospital Regional, Clínico, or private centres such as Quirón, CHIP, El Ángel, Gálvez, etc.) within the first 72 hours. Without this report, the insurance company will not cover the rehabilitation.
  • Medical prescription: A doctor must indicate that you require physiotherapy or rehabilitation.
  • Choice of clinic: You must go to a private clinic specialising in traffic accidents. They usually manage the authorisation with your insurance company themselves so that you do not have to pay anything.

 

2. Rights you should know about

Many users in Málaga are unaware that the UNESPA agreement protects them:

  • No direct cost: The clinic invoices the insurer directly. You should not have to pay any money upfront.
  • Diagnostic tests: You have the right to undergo complementary tests (MRIs, Electromyograms, etc.) within the same process.
  • Freedom to change: If you are not satisfied with the care at the centre assigned by your insurance, you can request a transfer to another centre of your choice that has an agreement in place.

 

3. Advice on "Whiplash"

This is the most common injury in Málaga due to rear-end collisions on the ring roads (MA-20 and A-7). Do not let time pass; if you feel neck stiffness, dizziness, or pain in your arms, start rehabilitation as soon as possible to prevent the injury from becoming chronic.

Tip: Keep all your pharmacy receipts and travel expenses (taxis or hospital parking), as these are also reclaimable as part of your personal injury compensation.