Excluding those who sustain life-threatening injuries, car accident victims are rarely inclined to seek prompt medical care. From securing alternative transportation to starting the claims process, there’s so much else to do in the aftermath of a collision that health often takes a backseat.
If you were recently involved in a wreck, though, it’s imperative to visit a doctor as soon as possible (ideally that same day). Let’s take a look at some of the biggest reasons why:
1. Not All Injuries Are Immediately Apparent
The single most important reason to undergo a comprehensive exam after a crash is to protect your health. Not all impact injuries manifest symptoms right away, so just because you feel fine doesn’t mean you are.
Neither internal bleeding nor whiplash may cause any noticeable symptoms for a few days, for example. And brain injuries may not present any obvious complications for weeks.
By seeking prompt care, you’ll also ensure prompt treatment of your injuries, including those that might cause devastating complications if left unchecked.
2. You’ll Need to Prove Causation
If you end up filing a claim against the motorist who was responsible for the accident, you’re going to have to demonstrate a link between the incident in question and the injuries you sustained. As long as you saw a doctor immediately after the crash, you’ll have a legitimate paper trail that will help you do so.
If you put off getting care for days or even weeks, on the other hand, you may find it incredibly challenging to prove causation. Even if you’re certain your condition can be attributed to the wreck, your credibility will inevitably come into question if a significant amount of time passed between when you were hurt and when you actually visited a doctor.
3. You Have an Obligation to Mitigate Damages
Car accident victims must take reasonable measures to mitigate the damages they incur. Otherwise, they could be deemed partially liable for their losses, which will reduce the total compensation to which they’re entitled.
Seeking medical care within a reasonable amount of time is one of the ways claimants are expected to mitigate damages. Once they do start treatment, they’re also expected to follow all medical advice.
If your doctor instructs you to take it easy, for example, but you return to a physically demanding job anyway, the opposing party may be able to shift at least some fault onto you.
Call 713-893-8808 for a Free Consultation with a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in a wreck through no fault of your own, turn to Chelsie King Garza, P.C. A seasoned litigator, attorney Garza has been in the legal field for more than 18 years, and she’s equipped to take on even the most complicated tort claims.
By letting Chelsie handle every aspect of your case, you can focus on your health and wellbeing. Call 713-893-8808 or use her Online Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a car accident attorney in Houston.
