Some people in Florida downplay the importance of getting medical treatment after a car accident. However, no immediately noticeable injury does not mean injury free. You may be able to walk away from your motor vehicle wreck and think you will be fine in a few days, but what is going on inside your body may tell a different story. Because it is not always possible to know if you have sustained harm such as a soft tissue injury or concussion, you should get checked out by a doctor to be safe.
Even if you have injuries such as cuts or bruises that you feel comfortable treating on your own, avoiding medical attention can have serious ramifications. Review the following reasons you should see a health care provider after a car accident.
Undiagnosed and hidden injuries can worsen
Trauma does not always show up right after an accident. For example, a sore neck may be whiplash, which often requires a significant amount of treatment. A herniated disc or muscle sprain could be the cause of an aching back. By the time you realize that your aches and pains are not healing as fast as they should, you may need more intensive treatment than you would have originally. If you go to the doctor for a car accident injury assessment right away, you may receive a diagnosis quickly and need less aggressive treatment.
Your injuries may not be temporary. Some types of trauma, such as a brain injury, may worsen with time, and they may even become permanent if they are not monitored and treated promptly. Instead of returning to your normal routine, you may face a lifetime of care and rehabilitation and become dependent on others to help you with your needs.
Receiving compensation may be more difficult
Delaying medical care in a car accident personal injury case can make it harder for you to provide proof of your injuries to the insurance company, or in court, if litigation is necessary. Your medical records are crucial evidence that shows your injuries are severe enough to cause you to lose wages, incur medical costs and alter your quality of life. If you do not seek treatment, you are likely to encounter complications that may result in the denial of your claim or reduce the amount of compensation you receive.
