When you have been involved in a car crash in California, you may not think of visiting a doctor after the incident if you don’t believe you have any injuries. You may feel shaken up and think primarily about getting your vehicle fixed or wondering what legal repercussions you’ll face. However, you should not skip that trip to the doctor. Here’s why.
Why post-accident medical exams are important
Not all injuries manifest themselves after motor vehicle accidents. Some can take weeks or months to become apparent. If a doctor examines you soon after a crash, you can start treatment immediately and lessen the consequences. Secondly, you may be in shock, both physically and mentally, and may not feel pain right away. The third implication of getting a doctor’s exam could involve compensation for your injuries if the other driver was at fault. If you wait to seek treatment, you may have a difficult time proving that your injury stemmed from the accident.
What to expect from a post-crash medical exam
Your doctor or an emergency room physician should check your blood pressure, temperature and other important vital signs. You can also expect a thorough examination of your shoulders, neck, and back, to detect signs of whiplash. Checking for head injuries such a minor concussions is also important.
Your injuries can result in compensation
You don’t have to suffer catastrophic injuries to file a lawsuit for compensation for your injuries. Many so-called minor injuries can result in time off from work and ongoing trips to doctors and physical therapy appointments.
If you are injured due to another driver’s carelessness in a motor vehicle accident, filing a claim can get you funds to pay for treatment. The settlement can help you deal with your loss of wages while getting medical attention and recovering.
