Many car accidents can lead to injuries that are immediately noticeable, including broken bones, torn ligaments, significant lacerations and muscle tears. However, there are quite a few types of common car accident injuries that are not immediately apparent, including whiplash and concussions.
So what should you do to protect yourself in the event that you do end up having an injury that doesn’t manifest itself until hours or days after the accident? Here are a few tips.
Get immediate medical attention: See a doctor right away following an accident, even if you do not believe you have a serious injury. Even if your injuries have not manifested themselves yet, a doctor may still be able to find symptoms or give you instruction for monitoring symptoms of potential injuries that may show up in the coming days. This also establishes a history of medical care after the accident, which is important for your claim.Do not take the first settlement offer: You will almost certainly be lowballed right out of the gate by insurance providers. Do not settle right away; do not even negotiate until you have reached what you believe maximum medical improvement and have a better idea of costs of your medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Work with an attorney: An experienced attorney will be able to advise you on all of the best moves to make legally with your particular situation and will be able to maximize the compensation you receive in your case.
For more information about how to handle late-appearing accident injuries, contact an experienced Bradenton, FL personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & & Walsh.