After a car accident, you may feel shaken and distressed. Often, injured victims want to get home so they can relax and feel safe. While this is understandable, the rush of adrenaline that occurs after a crash can mask pain and the symptoms of serious injuries. At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad, our personal injury attorneys advise clients to see a doctor as soon as possible following an accident, even if they don’t feel pain or think they’re seriously injured. Visiting the ER or seeing a health care professional not only helps to ensure you get the treatment you need, but it can also back up a car accident claim should you decide to file one.
Common Types Of Injuries A Doctor Can Detect After A Car Accident
Depending on the type and severity of an injury, symptoms may not appear for days, weeks, or even months. When placed in a dangerous situation, the human body releases stress hormones that can dull pain. Although you may think a bump on the head is just a minor annoyance, a concussion or brain injury can have severe physical, mental, and emotional aftereffects. If you see a doctor after your car accident, these types of injuries can be detected and treated immediately, which may lessen their impact on your health and quality of life.
Other injuries that you may not be aware of right away include:
Whiplash and other neck injuries — One of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents, whiplash can be extremely painful, limit your range of motion, and lead to other spine and back problems, as well. It can also cause headaches, tinnitus, and limit your ability to work and perform your regular daily tasks. Being examined by a doctor and getting X-rays at an urgent care clinic or emergency room can help you get a proper diagnosis and treatment for your injuries.
Spine and back injuries — The impact of a crash can cause severe damage to your spine and back. Even slight pain or soreness could indicate a sprain, spinal fracture, or disc injury. It’s always best to get checked out by a doctor so you don’t miss an injury that could have serious repercussions, leading to further problems down the road.
Soft tissue injuries — Torn, sprained, or strained muscles, tendons, and ligaments are often difficult to detect because they aren’t always as visible as other injuries. It’s easy to consider something like a sore knee a minor issue, but soft tissue injuries can do lasting damage when left untreated. You may also have a cracked or broken bone, which may not heal correctly without proper treatment. If you see a doctor and get X-rays, a CT scan, or MRI after an accident, these injuries will most likely be identified promptly.
Organ damage or internal bleeding — These types of injuries can also go unnoticed and cause shock, unconsciousness, permanent organ damage, and death. Slow internal bleeding can lead to the gradual onset of anemia, resulting in paleness, tiredness, and shortness of breath. Organ damage or internal bleeding may require prompt lifesaving medical treatment like surgery.
Seeing a Doctor After A Car Crash Also Provides Vital Evidence
Unfortunately, most insurance companies will use any excuse they can find to minimize compensation for car accident claims. If you don’t have evidence and documentation of your injury, your claim may be denied altogether. After an accident, it’s important to call 911, take photos of your injuries, and seek medical attention. Before you speak to any insurance adjusters or accept a settlement, call a car accident lawyer. An attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on whether you have a viable claim.
Why Contact A Lawyer?
A personal injury lawyer knows how to collect all relevant evidence and put it all together to create a solid claim. They work together with your medical providers and others to demonstrate the severity and extent of your injuries and put an accurate value on your claim. They handle all negotiations with insurers, so you can focus on healing. Most auto accident attorneys work on contingency, which means you won’t owe attorney fees unless they recover compensation for you. Visiting a doctor and seeking the counsel of a lawyer who has experience handling car accident claims can help to ensure your health and financial future are protected.
Contact A Car Accident Attorney To Learn More
Have you or a loved one been injured in an accident? You don’t have to go it alone. To schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad, call us in Bath at 610-867-2900 or contact us online. We have additional locations in Allentown, Bath or Topton, PA, and represent injured victims throughout all counties in Eastern PA.