Car crashes can cause many different injuries. Some of these are evident immediately, but others aren’t necessarily noticeable until days or weeks after the wreck. If you’ve been involved in a car wreck, seeking immediate medical attention is a crucial step, even if you believe your injuries to be minor or non-existent.
You may not want to visit the emergency department after the crash, but you should still schedule a doctor’s appointment for an evaluation.
Identify Hidden Injuries
Car accidents can result in adrenaline surges that mask the pain of injuries, leading you to believe you’re unharmed. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not manifest immediate symptoms but can become life-threatening if left untreated. A medical professional can identify these hidden injuries and start treatment promptly.
Establish a Medical Record
When you visit a doctor right after the accident, you’ll start a documented trail of your medical condition. This record could prove invaluable if you later decide to file a personal injury claim, as it will help to establish a direct connection between the accident and your injuries, something that can be difficult to prove if you wait to seek treatment.
Help Your Personal Injury Claim
Immediate medical attention can bolster your personal injury claim. If you delay treatment, insurance adjusters or defense attorneys may argue that your injuries aren’t serious or aren’t related to the accident. Prompt medical attention makes it easier to link your injuries directly to the car wreck.
When Visiting a Physician
When you visit the doctor, be honest and comprehensive about your symptoms. Describe the accident and any pain, discomfort or disorientation you’re experiencing. This is not the time to be stoic or dismissive of your symptoms. It’s important to relay everything, even if you believe it’s minor. This helps the doctor make an accurate diagnosis and also ensures that all potential injuries are documented.
Remember to inform the doctor that your injuries are the result of a car accident. This information should be clearly stated in your medical records. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding treatment plans, medication, follow-up appointments or referrals to specialists. Neglecting to follow through on prescribed treatments can weaken your claim. Also, be sure to keep all documents, such as medical bills, prescription costs and the number of workdays missed due to your injury. These records can serve as evidence of your financial losses when calculating potential compensation.
In the wake of a car accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, prioritizing medical attention – even before seeking legal guidance – can not only safeguard your health but can also strengthen any action you may eventually opt to take against parties responsible for your harm.
