The aftermath of a car accident is incredibly stressful and traumatic. While it only takes a fraction of a second to occur, time may feel like it’s standing still, especially as you look around and see the damage. Your adrenaline will kick in and may mask the symptoms of your injuries, which is why you are always advised to seek medical attention immediately after an accident.
You may feel fine, but neglecting to get checked out by medical professionals can harm you in many ways. You should fully understand the impacts of skipping medical care after a car crash.
Why Is It Important To Get Medical Care Immediately After A Car Accident?
Some people know right away that they must get medical treatment after an accident when they are impaled, are bleeding heavily, or can’t move a limb. Others may fall unconscious in the crash and get taken to the nearest hospital by ambulance.
However, if you’re alert and can move your body, you may think that the only damage you’ve incurred is to your vehicle. While it may not be the ideal way you want to spend your time, you should still see a doctor to check for hidden injuries.
Some non-visible injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, and traumatic brain injuries can be extremely serious. When you do not get medical care, they can worsen and become life-threatening. You may not have symptoms for hours or days later, and by then, it could be too late.
Always seek medical treatment after an accident as doctors are trained to spot the subtle signs of these hidden injuries. You can then get the treatment you need to start on the path of recovery. You may also find that your car accident has a traumatizing effect on your psychological health. Seeing a doctor can help you get the support you need to help you through this aspect of your injuries.
How Does Seeking Medical Attention Assist Your Car Accident Claim?
Your primary reason to seek medical treatment after an auto accident is to protect your health. However, it can also be instrumental for your car accident claim. Medical records will be created from the treatment you receive, which serves as critical evidence.
The insurance company may dispute your injury claim, but with official documentation, you can show the type and severity of your injuries and prove when they occurred. Medical records are crucial to show that you were injured in the accident and the treatments that were administered. They will detail the costs of your medical care from any surgeries to prescriptions you may need.
The medical records can also show how your injuries from the auto accident have affected your daily life. For example, you may be unable to work until you recover, or may be permanently injured to a degree that prevents you from working again. This can provide the necessary proof to seek compensation for your loss of income.
Comprehensive medical records provide the evidence needed to support your accident claim. This will increase your chances of recovering a fair amount of compensation for the injuries and damages you’ve experienced. Every attorney will tell you that you must have an injury to make a personal injury claim, and you must have the documentation to prove your injury claims.
While you don’t need an attorney to seek compensation from the other driver, you will find it is much easier with their assistance. You may be in great pain, and a personal injury lawyer can take over by helping with the claims process, negotiating on your behalf, and working to ensure you get compensation to make up for your financial losses from this incident.
Make Sure You Follow All Recommendations By The Doctors
In addition to getting prompt medical care immediately after you’ve been in an auto wreck, you must also follow the advice of your doctors. They will create a treatment plan for you, which may include taking prescription medications, physical therapy, and taking time to rest.
Skipping your appointments or neglecting to take your medications could indicate to the insurance company that you’re not as hurt as you claim. They may use this against you to reduce your settlement or deny your claim. You’re likely not excited about having to attend so many doctors’ appointments, but make sure you go and follow everything to the letter. That way, you will ensure you get what you deserve for your car accident claim.