If you have been involved in a car accident, one of the most important steps you must take is to see a doctor. Although it may be tempting to skip this step, especially if the collision is considered a fender bender, you need to think of the long-term consequences in the aftermath of the crash.
The following are three main reasons why you need to see a doctor after a car accident:
- Avoid further injury – A rush of adrenaline flows through your entire body immediately after the crash, which is why it is not uncommon to feel the symptoms of soft tissue injuries like whiplash, internal wounds, as well as back and neck injuries, until hours or even days later. When you visit a doctor, you will be able to learn the full extent of your injuries and recommend the appropriate treatment to help you take care of yourself in the short and long term.
- Obtain evidence for your case – Your doctor will likely perform a series of tests – such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans – to obtain a clearer picture of all your potential injuries. Additionally, such tests are all valid pieces of evidence to show the full extent of your injuries and the amount of compensation you need to make the best possible recovery. Lastly, if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit, your medical records could be used as evidence in court.
- Avoid being offered a low settlement – Insurance companies will do whatever it takes to reduce the amount of compensation they must pay for claims or deny such payment entirely. If you do not seek immediate medical attention following a car accident and then you feel the symptoms of your injury later, insurers will be wary of giving you the compensation you deserve if you attempt to later claim that you were actually injured.
While it is difficult to think clearly following a collision, you must remain calm and take the necessary steps to protect yourself during the legal process. If you are not sure whether you should seek medical attention, it is better to be safe than sorry.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Las Vegas, contact The Draskovich Law Group today at (702) 381-6590 for a free initial consultation.