It happens to everyone. Once there’s been an accident, your adrenaline level skyrockets and your senses kick into overdrive. If there is no obvious injury, most people tend to conclude that they’re fine and don’t seek medical treatment. This is a mistake.
Once your heart rate returns to normal and you put the shock of the accident behind you, symptoms can arise that can be serious and could require treatment. It’s smart to seek medical treatment even if you don’t think you need it. It’s equally wise to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney for advice.
Injuries Might Not Be Immediately Evident
If you’ve been in a car accident, injuries such as whiplash or internal bleeding, might not be apparent right away. It’s not uncommon for symptoms to arise days or weeks after an accident.
When you seek medical treatment right away, the doctor can examine you and tell you what types of symptoms to watch out for. By not going to the doctor, you run the risk that any injuries you may have suffered without knowing it could get worse.
Another reason to go to the doctor right away is that it could help with any potential insurance claim. The longer you wait to be seen for medical treatment, the more difficult it may be to prove the accident caused the injuries.
Insurance companies will look to see if you sought medical treatment right away and will also inquire as to whether you followed any recommended treatment plan. Failure to do so could work against you as far as getting full value for any claim.
Documentation is Critical
By seeking medical treatment, you will be establishing a written record of the accident and any possible injuries you suffered. This documentation could be extremely important in the case you file an insurance claim or file a personal injury lawsuit.
What if symptoms of an injury don’t appear until weeks or months after the accident? By seeking medical care shortly after the accident and getting a written record of it, you will strengthen any future case for compensation.
Better Safe than Sorry
It’s understandable that people don’t want to get medical treatment if they feel fine. You’ve been in an accident and may be dealing with property damage. Your day has been derailed and you just want to go home and move on. It’s smart to push through any reluctance and get a medical workup.
Depending on the type of accident, you may have been banged up and jostled around. If you were in a car accident, sometimes the seat belts and airbags can cause injuries while protecting against more serious injuries.
In addition, getting looked over by a medical professional can be reassuring. The provider can tell you what symptoms, if any, to look for, as you regroup from the accident.
Call a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney with Questions
If you have been in an accident and have questions about how best to proceed, contact an experienced personal injury attorney and schedule a consultation. They can assess the facts of your case and guide you through the process, whether it involves an insurance claim or a court case.
