Car accidents can result in many types of injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Some of these injuries may come with a fairly easy recovery period while others may be life-threatening. If you were involved in a car accident, it’s important to get emergency medical care as soon as possible. Here’s why:
Your Health Is Important
After a car accident, your health should be your first priority. Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s still important to see a doctor right away. Certain injuries, like whiplash and concussions, don’t always present symptoms right away. You might feel okay, but you’re actually hurt. If you delay medical care, these injuries can worsen and require more extensive medical treatment.
A doctor will give you a physical exam and may order tests to properly diagnose your injuries. Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will recommend the appropriate treatment. For example, if you suffered whiplash, your doctor may advise you to undergo physical therapy.
You Must Document Your Injuries
If you plan to file a claim against the driver who caused the accident, you will need to provide solid proof of your injuries. That’s another good reason to seek immediate medical care. Your doctor will provide you with medical records that include important information, such as your diagnosis, treatment plan and prognosis. The defendant’s insurance company will likely request copies of these records.
The Insurance Company Can Use Your Failure to Seek Medical Care Against You
Insurance companies care about the bottom line first, so they will look for different ways to devalue your claim. If you don’t get medical attention right after a car accident, the defendant’s insurance company may use that against you. They may argue that you couldn’t be that injured if you didn’t see a doctor right away.
Be Sure to Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Advice
Following through with your doctor’s treatment advice is just as critical as seeking medical attention immediately after a car accident. If you miss doctor’s appointments or stop your treatment plan early, you’re not just putting your health at risk. You’re also putting your claim in jeopardy. If the insurance company discovers that you haven’t been following your doctor’s treatment plan, your claim may be denied.
If you were injured in a car accident, schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer, like one from The Lynch Law Group.