If you are involved in a car accident, seeking medical attention is crucial regardless of how minor your injuries seem. Some people skip a doctor’s visit after a crash because they don’t feel hurt. This is particularly common among people involved in minor accidents, as they believe there is no way they can sustain a severe injury. But this is a myth; minor accidents can cause serious injuries.
Here is why you need medical help after a car accident:
Discover injuries
When someone sustains a severe injury, such as a broken leg, they can quickly tell they are injured and hence need medical help. However, some injuries have delayed symptoms. It may take you days or longer to feel pain. This is primarily caused by an adrenaline rush, which can mask pain and other symptoms of an injury.
By getting immediate medical help, a doctor can examine you to identify hidden injuries. Accordingly, you can receive treatment earlier, eliminating the chances of an injury worsening. For instance, your primary care physician can determine sooner you need the services of a specialist, such as a chiropractor, an orthopedic surgeon or a neurologist, and refer you on time.
Document your injuries
It’s vital to take pictures of your injuries at the accident scene, as they can serve as a crucial source of evidence. However, it’s also important to have medical records linking your injuries to the accident.
The longer you take to seek medical help after an accident occurs, the more complicated your experience can be if you file a claim and the other driver’s insurer questions the connection between the crash and your injuries.
Regardless of the severity of the accident you are involved in or how you feel after a crash, it’s critical to get immediate medical attention. Learn more about this aspect to protect your rights to fair compensation.