It does not matter whether you were in a horrific rollover or rear-ended while sitting at a traffic light. You might have nothing more visible than a couple of bruises to show for the accident, but you should seek medical help promptly.
Do not wait until you begin having symptoms days later. Your well-being is at stake, along with your ability to collect an appropriate insurance settlement.
Injuries might take their time
In the adrenaline rush that accompanies even a minor car crash, you might walk away feeling nothing more than jangled nerves and a bit of soreness here and there. Pain has a way of escaping notice at times, and you might not have any indicators of a deeper medical issue for days or even weeks after the accident.
Pay attention to indicators
Whiplash or numbness in the hands or arms might signal that something more serious is going on in your neck or shoulder, and proper diagnosis may require X-rays. More than half of the victims of rear-end collisions report low back pain, which could become chronic. Ongoing headaches represent another telltale sign of a potentially serious issue, such as a concussion or even a traumatic brain injury. Other signs of possible TBI include problems with vision, hearing or memory. Studies by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate the third leading cause of TBIs is car accidents.
Seek professional help
When you seek prompt medical attention, the doctor will be able to diagnose and treat any injuries you might have, including those that are not apparent. A timely medical report will be important in connecting your injuries directly to the vehicle crash. Your attorney will use that report in negotiating your settlement with an insurance company, whose normal operating procedure is to lowball any compensation that might be due to you. The bottom line is that if you should be in a car crash, no matter how minor, remember how important it is to seek prompt medical help.