Seeing a Doctor After Your Car Accident

Car Accident Lawyer

Being in a car accident can have serious consequences. Your car could suffer significant damage to the point where you may not be able to drive it again. Your injuries could be physically, emotionally and financially challenging as well. Even in minor car accidents, you should seek medical help. This will ensure that you get the auto insurance coverage you need. It will also help build your case if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Common Injuries

From a small fender-bender to a multi-car pileup and many other incidents in between, a lot can happen in car accidents. These cause an assortment of injuries, including bone fractures, whiplash, abrasions, lacerations and head trauma. Severe accidents can also cause internal injuries.

The Type of Medical Care You’ll Need

In some accidents, there will be no question that you need immediate medical help. If you are unconscious, not breathing or have no heartbeat, technicians will treat you on the scene and then transport you via ambulance to the nearest emergency room. You should also go straight to the hospital if you have severe bleeding or are immobile. Other injuries may not be as apparent but still require that you go to the doctor’s office right away. A family member or friend may drive you to your physician’s office for an examination. In some cases, you may appear to have escaped your accident unscathed or with nothing but a few bumps and bruises. You should still let a qualified doctor check you out and make sure you don’t have medical concerns.

The Time Frame

Most Insurance companies require that you see the doctor within three days of your accident. The best rule is to go as soon after the incident as possible. Some injuries and symptoms may not show up for several days or even a few weeks. A doctor can evaluate your condition and diagnose any ailments. The doctor may use imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI or CT-scan to determine your condition.

The Importance of Timely Action

Getting to the doctor quickly will ensure that you get the right help when you need it. This proactive approach also shows the insurance company that you are doing your part to get the necessary care. Delaying this visit could disqualify you from coverage.

If you are hurt in a car wreck, go to the hospital or doctor’s office as soon as you can. You and everyone involved in the accident should do this regardless of the seriousness of the crash.  Contact a car accident attorney, like David & Philpot, P.L., to learn more.