How Soon Should I See a Doctor After an Accident?
People who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and even those who do not feel or think that they’ve been injured must see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Seeing a doctor and having their injuries evaluated as soon as they can not only protects their health but also their claim for financial compensation.
Why Seeing a Doctor ASAP After an Accident is Crucial
Often, injured people only get medical attention if the injuries they sustained in a car accident seem serious. But they might hesitate to see a doctor if they suffered seemingly minor injuries or less visible ones, like an internal injury or concussion. However, the symptoms of such injuries may not always be visible or may take days to weeks to manifest. It’s vital to seek medical help ASAP after the accident to obtain an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Additionally, in some people, their bodies experience an adrenaline rush to protect themselves against shock, which effectively suppresses pain and other symptoms for some time. But once this rush wanes, they will start feeling discomfort, pain, and other symptoms. If this is the case, head to the doctor immediately. Waiting it out or thinking that the symptoms will go away on their own can be life-threatening.
Likewise, if the crash resulted from another driver’s negligence, their liability insurance coverage must pay for the injured party’s medical bills and related damages. Take note, though, that this insurance will only cover injuries sustained in a motor vehicle crash.
As such, if the injured party delayed seeing their doctor for several days or weeks following the crash, the insurer may argue that their injuries were not really that serious or were aggravated by something else and therefore can’t be covered. Put simply, the longer they delay seeing a doctor, the easier it is for the insurer to deny their claim or justify a lower settlement offer.
What to Do After Seeing a Doctor
Make sure to follow the doctor’s treatment recommendations to the letter. Document the injuries and be on the lookout for worsening symptoms. If needed, don’t hesitate to seek counseling for mental trauma, anxiety, or depression, which is common among accident survivors.
Among the most crucial things injured people can do to safeguard their rights and health following a crash is to receive prompt medical attention. The other is seeking legal advice. The insurer’s claims adjusters can and will certainly use anything the injured party said against them because their allegiance is to their employers.
Conversely, the injured party’s lawyer works for them and their interests and can handle any tactic that the insurer may use to refute or reduce the injured party’s compensation.
Consult with a Top CT Roadside Lawyer Now
Find out more about the importance of seeing a doctor after an accident and your right to be fairly compensated after one by contacting Berman & Russo. Please call 860-644-1548 or contact them online to schedule your free consultation with a CT roadside lawyer.