Car accidents are stressful, and immediately afterward, your body may go into shock or be flooded with adrenaline. In those moments, you may not realize the extent of your injuries. Sometimes, the symptoms of serious conditions like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries do not appear until the next day or even several days later. That is why it is essential to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible after any car accident, regardless of how you feel at the time.
Injuries May Not Be Immediately Obvious
After an accident, many people assume that if they do not feel immediate pain or discomfort, they are not seriously injured. However, the reality is that some of the most common car accident injuries can take time to fully reveal themselves. Here are a few examples:
- Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common car accident injuries and can occur even in low-speed collisions. It happens when the head is jerked forward and backward, causing strain to the neck and spine. Symptoms of whiplash, such as neck pain, stiffness, and headaches, may not show up for hours or even days after the accident.
- Concussion
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur if your head strikes something or is violently jolted in the crash. While some symptoms, like dizziness or confusion, may appear immediately, others—such as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or headaches—may develop later. Ignoring a concussion can lead to serious complications, so it is critical to have a medical professional evaluate you.
- Internal Injuries
Not all injuries are visible. Internal bleeding or organ damage can result from the force of a car accident and may not show symptoms right away. If left untreated, these injuries can become life-threatening. Getting a medical exam soon after the crash can help identify and treat internal injuries before they worsen.
- Spinal Injuries
Damage to your spine or back may not cause immediate pain but can develop into more serious issues over time, especially if left untreated. Symptoms like numbness, weakness, or pain in your back, legs, or arms could indicate a spinal injury. It is important to have these issues evaluated early to prevent long-term complications.
Medical Documentation Is Critical for Your Personal Injury Claim
Beyond protecting your health, seeking prompt medical attention is essential for any personal injury claim you may file. Here’s why:
- Establishing a Link Between the Accident and Your Injuries
When you visit a doctor soon after the accident, the medical records will document your injuries and tie them directly to the crash. This creates a clear, documented timeline that can be used to support your personal injury claim. If you delay seeking medical care, it may be more difficult to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident, giving the insurance company room to question the legitimacy of your claim.
- Accurate Diagnosis for Future Medical Costs
Your medical treatment following the accident plays a significant role in determining the value of your settlement. The full extent of your injuries, including any future medical treatments or rehabilitation you may need, will be factored into your compensation. By seeing a doctor and following their recommendations, you help ensure that all aspects of your injury are thoroughly documented and included in your claim.
- Preventing the Insurance Company from Downplaying Your Injuries
Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts, and if you wait too long to see a doctor, they may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. By seeking immediate medical attention, you create a record that proves your injuries were serious enough to warrant treatment right away.
What to Do After an Accident
If you have been involved in a car accident, here are a few steps you should take to protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Whether you go to the emergency room, urgent care, or your primary care physician, do not delay getting checked out. Even if you feel fine, a medical professional can identify injuries that you may not be aware of.
- Follow Through on Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan
If your doctor prescribes treatment—whether that’s medication, physical therapy, or additional tests—be sure to follow through. This not only helps your recovery but also makes sure that all ongoing medical issues related to the accident are well-documented.
- Keep Records of Your Medical Treatment
Make sure to keep copies of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and any other documentation related to your treatment. This evidence will be important when it comes time to negotiate with the insurance company or pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Future Medical Costs and Your Settlement
Many accident victims focus on immediate medical bills without considering the potential for future costs. However, injuries like whiplash, spinal damage, or brain injuries can require long-term care, rehabilitation, or even surgery months or years after the accident. These future medical expenses need to be accounted for when calculating your settlement.
Take the Right Steps—Get Medical Attention and Legal Support
After a car accident, your health should be your top priority. Even if you think you’re uninjured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to catch any hidden injuries and to protect your personal injury claim. At The Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell, we can help make sure that all aspects of your accident—including your medical costs—are properly documented and accounted for in your case. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options and get the legal support you need.
