If you have been involved in a minor car accident, such as a fender-bender without any significant injuries, you may be thinking that you don’t need to seek immediate medical attention for any injuries. However, our Toledo personal injury attorneys at Williams DeClark Tuschman Co., L.P.A. recommends you should still visit your doctor after a wreck—no matter how serious the collision is. Here are several reasons why you must still see a doctor after a minor car accident:
- The sudden impact of a crash can leave your body in serious shock – Even when a collision occurs at low speeds cause little or no damage to each vehicle, injuries are still likely to occur. Since people rarely brace themselves before being struck by another vehicle, soft-tissue injuries such as whiplash often happen due to the violent jerking of the neck and body.
- Your body is masking the pain – As soon as the accident occurs, your body is generating adrenaline and endorphins due to the initial shock of impact. This heightened sense of excitement not only results in an increased amount of energy but also a lack of pain. The chemicals in your body mask many painful and serious systems, which is why it is common for accident victims to experience pain days or even weeks later. If left untreated, your symptoms will only get worse.
- Medical records are important pieces of evidence in a car accident claim – In order for the at-fault driver to pay for your medical expenses, you must obtain valid records which document the full extent of your injuries and the necessary treatments to make a full recovery. These records are required for filing an accident claim with the insurance company.
- The insurance company will deny your claim – The truth is that insurance companies are looking out for their own best interests to protect their bottom line. The goal of adjusters is to do their best to discredit your claim my all means. If you fail to obtain medical treatment and documentation following a crash and you wish to get paid for your medical bills, insurers will deny your claim because you don’t have the records which prove your injuries are legitimate. In addition, if you delay receiving medical treatment, the insurance company can claim that your injuries aren’t’ as serious as you claim since you failed to seek medical care right away.
No matter how serious your car accident is—you must still seek medical attention. Doing so can help you avoid losing out on financial compensation you deserve. If you have been injured in a collision in Toledo, OH, schedule a free consultation with our experienced legal team at Williams DeClark Tuschman Co., L.P.A. today.