Car accidents can be frightening and overwhelming, and knowing what steps to take after the crash can be challenging. One of many people’s most important questions is: “Do I have to go to the doctor after a car accident?” The answer is yes, and here’s why it’s so important to see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine right after the crash.
Why You Should See a Doctor After a Car Accident
After a car accident, even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s crucial to visit a doctor. Injuries from car accidents can sometimes be “hidden,” meaning they might not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline, which is released during stressful situations, can mask pain and make you feel like you’re okay, even if you’re not. By seeing a doctor, you can ensure that any injuries are detected early before they become more serious.
Detecting Hidden Injuries
Injuries such as whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue injuries might not show immediate signs. These injuries can worsen, so getting a check-up can help you prevent long-term health issues. A doctor can examine you and determine if any injuries are present that need treatment.
Documenting Your Injuries for Insurance Claims
Going to the doctor after a car accident also helps with your insurance claim. Suppose you don’t seek medical attention right away. In that case, insurance companies might argue that your injuries weren’t serious or were caused by something other than the accident. Having a doctor’s visit shortly after the crash shows that your injuries were a direct result of the accident, and this documentation can be important when filing your claim.
What to Do if You Don’t Feel Hurt
You may not feel pain or discomfort right away after an accident. It’s important to remember that not all injuries are immediately noticeable. For example, whiplash might not cause pain until a few hours or days later. If you’re unsure whether to go to the doctor, it’s better to err on the side of caution and make an appointment.
Pain Might Appear Later
Soft tissue injuries like muscle strains and sprains often don’t cause pain immediately. In fact, many people report feeling fine right after an accident, only to experience stiffness or soreness the next day. If you wait too long to see a doctor, your injuries could worsen, which can make recovery take longer and might lead to long-term damage.
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
Specific injuries are common after car accidents. Here are a few that you might experience:
Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the neck is jerked repeatedly, often causing pain, stiffness, and headaches. This injury might not show symptoms immediately but can become quite painful if not treated.
Concussions
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head. Symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and confusion might not show up immediately. Still, it’s essential to seek medical attention after any blow to the head.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, often don’t immediately cause pain. Seeing a doctor can help identify these injuries and help with recovery.
What Happens if You Don’t Go to the Doctor?
If you decide not to go to the doctor after a car accident, you risk leaving any injuries undiagnosed. If your injuries worsen, healing might take longer, and you could face long-term complications. Additionally, not having a doctor’s visit documented could hurt your case if you file an insurance claim or lawsuit later on.
How Soon Should You See a Doctor?
It’s best to see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours after a car accident, even if you feel fine. The sooner you seek medical attention, the better your chances of a full recovery. Delaying medical treatment can harm both your health and your ability to seek compensation for your injuries.
Seek Medical Attention and Legal Advice After a Car Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident and need help with your claim, an experienced attorney can help. They understand how overwhelming it can be after an accident and want to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for any injuries. Schedule a free consultation today and get help navigating the legal process while you focus on recovering.
Contact a Baton Rouge, LA Car Accident Lawyer from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991