If you are involved in a car accident, the steps you take matter considerably. And one of them is seeking medical help even if you believe you are not injured.
Here is why you should get medical attention after an accident:
Your pain may be masked
An adrenaline rush usually occurs after one is involved in an accident as part of the fight or flight response. This can mask pain. Accordingly, you may not feel pain, especially if you don’t have visible injuries, such as cuts or burns.
But after some time, when the effects of adrenaline wear off, you will feel pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, by this time, the injury may have worsened, especially in cases where the adrenaline rush lasts longer. That’s why it’s crucial to be examined by a physician immediately after an accident to identify the location and extent of injuries and treat them earlier.
Proper documentation
Medical records are vital in auto accident claims. Seeking medical help after an accident allows you to get proper documentation from the day of the accident. It can be challenging to prove your injuries were caused by the accident or their severity if you waited so long to see a doctor.
Not getting medical help after a car accident can affect your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Insurance rules
Insurance companies have a “reasonable period” within which one should seek medical attention to be eligible for compensation. If you fail to do so, your insurance company may deny your claim or the other driver’s insurer may argue that you didn’t sustain the injuries from the accident caused by their policyholder.
If you are involved in an accident, you should get medical help and legal guidance to protect your rights.