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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 20: External causes of morbidityV87

V87

Non-billable

Traffic accident of specified type but victim's mode of transport unknown

Chapter 20:External causes of morbidity

BILLABLE STATUSNo
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 V87 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of traffic accident of specified type but victim's mode of transport unknown.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The ICD-10 Level 1 Category code V87 pertains to traffic accidents of specified types where the victim's mode of transport is unknown. This category is significant as it allows for the classification of incidents where the details surrounding the victim's transportation status are unclear, yet the accident itself is categorized. This can include various scenarios such as pedestrian accidents, cyclist incidents, or other forms of transportation where the specific vehicle or mode is not identified. The clinical significance lies in the ability to track and analyze traffic-related injuries and fatalities, even when complete information is not available, thereby contributing to public health data and safety initiatives.

  • In terms of usage guidelines, V87 codes are typically employed when the circumstances of a traffic accident are known, but the details about the victim's mode of transport are not. Healthcare providers should ensure that they document all available information regarding the incident to support the use of this code. It is essential for accurate data collection and analysis in traffic safety studies, as well as for insurance and legal purposes, where the nature of the accident may influence liability and compensation claims.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Ambiguity of victim's transport mode
  • Variability in accident types
  • Documentation challenges

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation
  • Misclassification of accident type
  • Failure to capture all relevant details

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Trauma Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical impact of the V87 code category is significant as it aids in the collection of data related to traffic accidents, contributing to broader public health initiatives aimed at reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Understanding the circumstances of these accidents, even when the mode of transport is unknown, allows for better resource allocation and safety measures to be implemented in communities.
Administratively, the use of V87 codes can influence healthcare trends by highlighting the need for improved data collection methods and better documentation practices. This can lead to enhanced quality measures in healthcare settings, as providers become more aware of the importance of capturing accurate information regarding traffic incidents. Furthermore, as population health initiatives evolve, the data derived from V87 coding can inform policy decisions and preventive strategies aimed at improving road safety.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical impact of the V87 code category is significant as it aids in the collection of data related to traffic accidents, contributing to broader public health initiatives aimed at reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Understanding the circumstances of these accidents, even when the mode of transport is unknown, allows for better resource allocation and safety measures to be implemented in communities. Administratively, the use of V87 codes can influence healthcare trends by highlighting the need for improved data collection methods and better documentation practices. This can lead to enhanced quality measures in healthcare settings, as providers become more aware of the importance of capturing accurate information regarding traffic incidents. Furthermore, as population health initiatives evolve, the data derived from V87 coding can inform policy decisions and preventive strategies aimed at improving road safety.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may vary based on the specifics of the case, including the nature of the injuries sustained and the treatment provided. It is advisable to follow up with insurers to confirm coverage policies related to traffic accidents where the mode of transport is unknown, as this can influence payment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for V87

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for V87

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions are included in V87?

V87 includes traffic accidents where the mode of transport for the victim is not specified. This can encompass various scenarios such as accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, or other unidentified transport modes.

When should I use V87 codes?

V87 codes should be used when the details of the traffic accident are known, but the specific mode of transport of the victim is unclear. It is crucial to ensure that all available information is documented to support the use of this code.

What documentation is required for V87?

Documentation should include all known details about the traffic accident, including the type of accident, location, and any witness statements. It is important to note that the victim's mode of transport is unknown, and this should be clearly stated in the medical records.