When you get into a car accident, it is not uncommon for the adrenaline and the initial shock to mask pain and injuries. As you become highly alert immediately after the impact, your ability to feel pain temporarily decreases, which might lead you to think you do not need medical treatment. However, delaying medical treatment not only leads to complications in your physical recovery but can also cause subsequent legal and insurance issues.
Hidden injuries could get worse
Some car accidents do not become apparent in the immediate aftermath of the accident. You might feel fine at the moment, but certain severe conditions can show symptoms hours or even days later, such as internal bleeding, concussions or whiplash. It is essential to seek medical attention immediately after the road accident to detect these hidden injuries as soon as possible before they get worse.
Legal actions could be jeopardized
Timing is everything when it comes to filing insurance claims. Insurance companies often look at the gap between the accident and when you seek medical treatment. A delay on your part could lead them to question whether your injuries were really a result of the accident or something else. Seeking medical attention right after the incident will help establish a clear link between the event and your injuries, strengthening your claim.
Similarly, if your accident leads to a legal case, having immediate medical records can particularly boost your legal case. These records will help your lawyer build a more robust physical injury case for you by showing that the accident directly caused your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.
Early medical documentation serves as a baseline to demonstrate the direct impact of the accident on your life. It also ensures you are out of harm’s way after the accident. Medical treatment right after a car wreck is vital in protecting your health and rights.
