Car accidents can be a traumatic experience, both emotionally and physically. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more severe collision, the aftermath often leaves individuals shaken and unsure about the next steps to take. One of the most common questions people have after a car accident is: Do I need to see a doctor? The short answer is yes, but you should continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Jacksonville personal injury lawyer from our legal team to learn more about why this is so important.
Why Is It Important to See a Doctor Immediately After a Car Accident?
You might feel fine right after an accident, especially if it was a low-speed collision or you don’t notice any visible injuries. However, appearances can be deceiving. The body often reacts to trauma with a rush of adrenaline, which can hide pain and other symptoms. Additionally, injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries might not present immediate symptoms, but they can cause significant issues if left untreated.
Seeing a doctor promptly after an accident ensures that any potential injuries are diagnosed and treated early. Early diagnosis is not only crucial for your health but also for your peace of mind. Medical professionals are trained to identify injuries that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye. Moreover, some injuries can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain or more severe health complications if not addressed promptly. Therefore, seeing a doctor immediately allows for a complete evaluation of your condition, potentially preventing long-term suffering.
What Happens If You Don’t Seek Medical Attention?
Failing to seek medical attention after a car accident can have serious consequences. First and foremost, it poses a risk to your health. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or a traumatic brain injury, can become life-threatening if not treated in time. Even more common injuries, such as soft tissue damage, can lead to ongoing pain and reduced mobility if not properly managed.
In addition to health risks, neglecting to see a doctor can impact any potential personal injury claims you might file. Insurance companies often scrutinize claims closely, and if there is a delay in seeking medical treatment, they may argue that your injuries were not a result of the accident or were not as serious as claimed. By visiting a doctor soon after the accident, you establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries, which is vital for any personal injury claim.
How Does Seeing a Doctor Impact My Personal Injury Claim?
When filing a personal injury claim after a car accident, documentation is key. Medical records serve as crucial evidence that supports your claim of injury. They provide an objective, professional assessment of your injuries and the necessary treatment. Without these records, it becomes your word against the insurance company’s, which can make it much more challenging to prove your case.
Additionally, the sooner you see a doctor, the stronger your case will be. If there’s a significant gap between the accident and when you seek medical care, the insurance company might argue that your injuries were caused by something other than the accident.
It’s also worth noting that in Florida, the law requires car accident victims to seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. If you wait too long, you might forfeit your right to these benefits, further complicating your recovery process both physically and financially.
The bottom line is that after a car accident, the most important thing you can do is promptly see a doctor. If you have further questions or believe you have a valid claim, please don’t hesitate to contact Ansbacher Law today.
