Car accidents can turn lives upside down in an instant, and the aftermath of that accident can be just as traumatic and overwhelming. As a result, not everyone may seek immediate medical attention. It’s understandable that someone might skip visiting a doctor right after an accident, especially if they feel fine. However, failing to do so can be harmful both physically and for any potential insurance claims they might file.
At Feller & Wendt, we understand the tumultuous effects of a car accident and are here to provide the legal support you need to successfully navigate your claim. We are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us guide you through the complex process of pursuing fair compensation for your injuries.
Why You Need to See a Doctor After a Car Accident
The aftermath of a car accident can be just as chaotic as the actual accident. Sometimes, people fail to go to the doctor right away because they feel fine and would rather focus on the insurance claim or the damage to their vehicle. However, visiting a doctor is crucial to protecting your health and your right to fair compensation.
Hidden Injuries
One major reason to see a doctor is that not all injuries are immediately apparent after an accident. Some injuries, including whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue injuries, may not exhibit noticeable symptoms until hours or even days later. By seeing a doctor as soon as possible, you increase the likelihood of detecting and addressing these injuries, preventing them from worsening.
Documentation of Injuries
Going to the doctor creates a record of your injuries, which is crucial for filing an insurance claim and future legal proceedings. Delaying a visit to the doctor can cause issues with insurance companies and can lead to an insurance adjuster disputing your claim. They may try to argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident or that they resulted from another cause. Timely medical records establish a clear connection between your injuries and the accident.
Protecting Your Health
Even seemingly minor injuries can develop into serious health issues if left untreated. Delaying medical care can potentially exacerbate your condition, leading to complications, chronic pain, and longer recovery times. Prompt treatment helps your physical recovery and aids in preventing long-term health problems.
Long-Term Financial Benefits
Immediate medical care can go a long way in saving you money in the long run. Early detection prevents injuries from worsening, reducing the need for expensive, long-term treatments. Additionally, by documenting your injuries early on, you’re in a better position to establish your need for compensation.
Peace of Mind
After an accident, you may experience anxiety, shock, or emotional turmoil. Consulting a doctor provides reassurance and ensures you’re taking proactive steps toward recovery. A healthcare professional can offer guidance on managing stress and anxiety related to the accident.
Evidence for Future Incidents
Even if you don’t think you are hurt, you should still seek an immediate medical evaluation. Why? Well imagine that a year from now you have the misfortune of being involved in another motor vehicle collision. The insurance adjusters involved in this future event will certainly be looking into your past collisions and injuries. When they see a prior motor vehicle event, they will assume there were injuries. Without medical records showing a clean bill of health for your current motor vehicle collision, these future adjusters will use this current event to minimize the value of your future claims. In essence, they will say that you can’t prove that the current event didn’t cause injuries that you are now trying to claim in the future event. This is a common, effective insurance tactic. The best way to avoid this tactic being used against you is to always be evaluated by a medical professional after a traumatic event. If you get a clean bill of health, then you now have the evidence you need to combat this insurance tactic if you are ever involved in future traumatic events.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Today
In the aftermath of a car accident, the top priority is always to take care of your health. Seeking immediate care not only ensures that your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated but also creates a vital record that can significantly impact your legal case. Remember, your safety and well-being are what matter most, and immediate care is the foundation for protecting your recovery and legal rights.
Feller & Wendt is ready to be your advocate and guide you through the legal process to ensure you secure fair compensation. Contact us today, and let us be your allies in your path to recovery and justice. Call us at (801) 499-5060 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.
