Statistics show that most people in the United States will be involved in a car collision at least once in their lives.
Whether it’s a rear-end bump or a five-car pileup, a car accident can be a painful and overwhelming experience. Even so, there are a few specific steps you need to take after an accident if you want to protect your personal injury claim. One of the most important steps is seeing a doctor or health care professional.
At The Stewart Law Firm in Austin, Texas we understand that the car accident process can be difficult to navigate. That’s why we want to help you every step of the way, from providing emotional support and legal guidance to securing medical treatment when necessary. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, get in touch with our team today for more information about how we can help.
From our team of experienced car accident attorneys, here’s what you need to know about seeing a doctor after your accident.
Don’t Downplay Your Injuries After Your Texas Car Accident
Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s important to seek medical treatment after a car collision for the following reasons:
- You may experience a delayed reaction: Some car accident injuries aren’t immediately noticeable to the untrained eye. In fact, accident survivors often feel a rush of adrenaline after a collision that masks the severity of their injuries. It’s very easy for a layman to confuse cervical spine damage for symptoms of whiplash. A trained medical professional can evaluate your injuries, prescribe essential treatment options, and even you schedule you for any necessary surgeries. Seeking immediate medical attention can increase your recovery time and reduce your medical expenses.
- You need to secure the evidence: You need to create a detailed record of your injury-related expenses and debts before accepting a settlement or walking into a courtroom. Otherwise, you may recover compensation that doesn’t account for your present and future needs. Visiting your doctor and other necessary medical professionals can provide you with the documentation you need to secure both economic and non-economic damages.
- The following information may be essential to your case:
- Your medical record
- Hospital bills
- Lists of the treatments and medications you’re prescribed
- Notes about the doctors, chiropractors, or therapists you meet with
- The following information may be essential to your case:
- The defendant’s insurance company doesn’t want to pay: While it’s best for your health to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, sometimes life and personal circumstances get in the way. Regardless, you need to visit with a doctor within 7 days to protect your claim from the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. Otherwise, the rival insurance company may claim that your injuries aren’t severe enough to warrant compensation.
Remember, every person’s car accident injury case is unique. If you’re ever involved in an accident, it’s best to speak with a personal injury attorney at The Stewart Law Firm to determine the specific steps you need to take to secure your claim.
When to See a Doctor After an Accident in Texas
The best way to ensure you’re able to recover damages for your injuries is to seek medical attention right away. This will also create a clear record of your injuries that can be used as evidence in your case.
Some injuries, like whiplash, might not be immediately apparent. It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after an accident so they can properly evaluate your injuries and begin developing a treatment plan.
If you wait too long to get medical attention, the other driver’s insurance company might try to claim that your injuries aren’t severe or that they were caused by something other than a car accident. This can make it difficult to prove that you have a valid claim and get the compensation you deserve.
There are many different factors that will affect the specific steps you need to take after a car accident, so it’s important to speak with an experienced Texas personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. They can help guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact The Stewart Law Firm Today in Austin, Texas today!
If you’ve been injured by the actions of a negligent driver, contact the Austin car accident lawyers at The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC. Our legal team has the experience and legal acumen to effectively manage each and every aspect of your case. We can negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigate on your behalf in court to safeguard your right to a beneficial settlement or verdict.
We understand the gravity of what you’re going through and will work diligently to secure the full amount of compensation you’re owed for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other accident-related losses.
You shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of another driver’s recklessness in Texas.
Schedule a free consultation today! Contact The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC at (512) 326-3200.
