Following a car accident, especially a minor one, many people do not visit a doctor to get medical care. Like them, you may feel that there’s nothing wrong with your body, such as noticeable pain or discomfort. However, skipping a trip to the hospital does more harm than good in many ways. Here’s why you should do otherwise.

Why Should You Get Treated Following a Car Accident?

1. Prevents Injuries From Worsening

Car accidents are not fun, but they mimic a level of excitement that causes your body to produce endorphins and adrenaline in response. These chemicals temporarily alter your body, allowing you to respond better to the current situation. Endorphins also act as analgesics, reducing the feeling of physical pain. Once they both wear off, that’s when you’ll feel the full brunt of the accident.

It’s important to seek medical care immediately because you may not be aware that you have a serious condition like brain trauma, spinal injury, or internal bleeding. Whiplash and concussion often manifest later on, and once they do, the necessary treatment may be extensive and costly. Aside from physical injuries, emotional trauma can result from the accident, and prolonging its treatment may impact your quality of life.

2. Ensures Proper Documentation

If you suffered an injury from an automobile accident due to another party’s negligence, you could be compensated for it. However, this won’t be possible if you don’t have sufficient proof or evidence to back up your claims. Your medical records, including laboratory exams, X-rays, doctor’s notes, and patient files, will prove that you sustained injuries from the incident. If you fail to consult a doctor after the accident, no paper trail will detail your condition, severity, treatment, and prognosis.

It’s also important to check the accuracy of your medical records. Are the records consistent with your statement and police records? Correct any errors that may impact your claims for medical expenses.

3. Reduces the Possibility of Denied Claims

Insurance companies will review your case to determine how much compensation they can give you. However, they may find ways to discredit your claims. If you delay getting medical assistance after the car accident, they can argue that your injuries were only minor. They can also point out that these may have been caused by other pre-existing conditions and not caused by the accident. Avoid such a situation by seeking treatment for the accident but be honest about your medical history. 

After a car accident, get medical care to find out if you were injured and to what extent. If you need to file a case, work with the seasoned personal injury attorneys from Reed & Terry, L.L.P. in Sugar Land, TX. They provide top-notch legal counsel with their extensive knowledge of auto accident law. Call (281) 491-5000 to set an initial consultation or inquire via their website.