The time immediately following a car accident can be rather overwhelming. For many people, their first instinct is to try to minimize its severity, which can include the severity of potential injuries.
However, the symptoms of a serious, accident-related injury do not always immediately manifest themselves. Pain, numbness and dizziness can all take several days or weeks after an accident before they are noticeable.
Thus, it is important that you see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel OK. There are two major reasons why this is important:
- The longer you go without getting proper medical attention, the more you risk your health.
- The longer you wait after an accident to get medical treatment, the more difficult it will be in any ensuing personal injury claim to prove the injuries you suffered were directly related to the accident.
It might take a little bit of time for you to get in to see a doctor. While you are waiting, take pictures of any visible injuries, such as bruises, cuts or scrapes. Keep a detailed log of any pain or other symptoms you experience and when you start experiencing them.
Once you’ve had your doctor’s appointment, carefully document all medical expenses you incur for treatment. This information could serve as important evidence for your insurance provider or your personal injury attorney.
If you have a previous injury to the part of the body you also injured in the accident, ask your physician to provide documentation regarding how the injury was worsened due to the impact.
For further tips and guidance on what you should do after an auto accident, meet with a trusted Bradenton personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.