Why Seeking Medical Attention After an Accident Is Important!
When an accident happens, the shock and adrenaline can mask the true extent of any injuries sustained.
It’s a common scenario where individuals feel relatively unscathed right after an accident, only to discover hours or even days later that they are suffering from serious injuries.
This delay can not only jeopardize one’s health but also significantly affect a personal injury claim.
In this detailed guide, we at Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban will explore why seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is crucial, both for your health and for the strength of any subsequent legal claim.
Why Immediate Medical Care is Vital
1. Health and Safety First
The most important reason to seek medical attention immediately is your health and safety.
Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not present immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Early diagnosis and treatment can be the difference between a quick recovery and long-term health issues or complications.
2. Documentation of Injuries
Seeking medical care immediately provides a professional and timely documentation of your injuries, which is crucial in a personal injury case.
This medical record serves as evidence that the injuries were a direct result of the accident and not caused by a different incident.
It’s hard to dispute the immediacy and severity of injuries when they are documented by a healthcare professional right after the accident.
3. Legal and Insurance Implications
Insurance companies often scrutinize personal injury claims for any reason to minimize or deny compensation.
A delay in seeking medical treatment can be misconstrued as an indication that the injuries were not serious or were not a result of the accident.
Immediate medical attention strengthens your claim by linking your injuries directly to the accident.
How to Seek Medical Attention
1. At the Scene
If you’re involved in an accident, especially one that involves head injuries, neck and back injuries, or if you’re in significant pain, it’s crucial to accept medical help at the scene.
Paramedics can provide immediate care and assess whether you need to be transported to a hospital for further evaluation.
2. After Leaving the Scene
Even if you decline medical attention at the scene or feel fine initially, symptoms of certain injuries may develop hours or days later.
It’s important to visit a healthcare professional as soon as you notice any discomfort or symptoms.
This could be your primary care physician, an urgent care clinic, or an emergency room, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
What to Do After Receiving Medical Care
1. Follow Through with Recommended Treatment
Following the prescribed treatment plan is vital for your health and for your personal injury claim.
Failing to follow through can be used against you, with claims that you might have exacerbated your injuries by not adhering to the medical advice given.
2. Keep Detailed Records
Document everything related to your medical care, including:
- Dates and details of doctor visits
- Prescriptions
- Physical therapy
- Receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to your treatment
This documentation will be important for your personal injury claim.
3. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
After addressing your immediate health concerns, consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and the next steps in seeking compensation for your injuries.
At Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban, we specialize in helping accident victims navigate the complexities of personal injury claims.
We can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
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