When you’re involved in a car accident, it’s not uncommon to initially feel fine, only to realize later that you might be hurt. The rush of adrenaline and the initial shock can often disguise the actual extent of your injuries, both physically and emotionally. It’s crucial to see a doctor, not just to check for any hidden injuries, but also because it could play a significant role in your legal case if you decide to pursue one. But what if you delayed seeking medical attention? What are your options now?
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents are notorious for causing a variety of injuries. Some are immediately noticeable, while others might take time to manifest. Here are a few common ones:
Whiplash: This injury is frequently seen in rear-end collisions. It’s a neck injury caused by sudden, forceful back-and-forth neck movement. Symptoms can include neck discomfort, stiffness, and headaches. Whiplash might seem trivial, but if not treated properly, it can evolve into long-term pain issues.
Concussions: Concussions are one of the most common forms of traumatic brain injury caused by high-speed collisions. Concussion symptoms can range from minor headaches and dizziness to loss of consciousness in dangerous cases.
Broken Bones: High-impact crashes can lead to various broken bones, from simple fractures to more complex ones.
Internal Bleeding: Internal bleeding is tricky, as it’s not always immediately evident. However, it’s a serious condition that can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical attention. Signs to watch for include abdominal pain, dizziness, and fainting spells.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries run the risk of temporary or permanent loss in the capability/function of the body below the injury location. They demand immediate medical care to reduce the likelihood of long-term damage.
Burns: Accidents involving fire or extreme heat can cause burns. The treatment needed largely depends on the severity of the burn. More severe burns require specialized care to prevent infections and minimize scarring.
Remember, in the aftermath of an accident, your health should be your primary concern. Consult a healthcare professional and make sure you are not overlooking any potential injuries.
The Health Risks of Delaying Medical Attention After a Car Accident
If you’re in a car accident and don’t immediately seek medical help, the consequences can, unfortunately, be worse than you imagine. Sometimes, what seems like minor discomfort right after an accident can be an indicator of more severe internal issues. Delaying a medical check-up means these injuries can worsen over time, potentially leading to more life-threatening health problems down the line. Getting checked out early dramatically reduces the risk of enduring health problems and helps you get back to your daily life quickly and safely.
The Legal Side of Delaying Medical Care
When it comes to legal matters, delaying medical treatment after a car accident can complicate your insurance claim. Insurance companies often take a closer look at claims that involve delayed medical attention, sometimes questioning their legitimacy. They may argue that the injuries weren’t serious at all. Getting medical attention right away bolsters your legal position by providing concrete proof of your injuries, making it more difficult for insurance companies to challenge your claim.
Delaying medical care can also make it harder to demonstrate a clear link between your injuries and the accident. A gap in time can weaken your legal case, as proving the temporal connection between the accident and your injuries becomes more challenging. Immediate medical records are crucial evidence showing that your pain and injuries are genuinely the cause of the other negligent party.
What to Do If Medical Attention Was Deferred
If you didn’t seek medical attention right after a car accident, it’s vital to get in touch with a personal injury law firm as soon as you can. While delaying medical care can complicate your injury claim, a competent attorney can help you navigate these difficulties. They can assist you in getting the necessary medical evaluations and documentation, even if there’s been a delay.
The expertise of personal injury law firms makes them the perfect partner for addressing any challenges insurance companies throw your way.
Probinsky & Cole is a personal injury law firm with offices in Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota. Contact us today to get started on securing your claim.
