Car crashes are a scary thing. Whether your car experiences minor or major damages, you can suffer injuries. In fact, thousands of people are injured in car accidents every day.
Oftentimes, people are unaware that they’re even injured. In cases of minor injuries, people also underestimate the consequences of not seeking healthcare, leading to further damages. If you are involved in a car accident, it’s important you follow these steps toward recovery.
Step 1: Assess your injuries.
As soon as the accident happens, check yourself for injuries. If necessary, call an ambulance. Moving with severe injuries makes them worse. In some cases, you’ll be in shock and may not immediately recognize you’re injured. During car accidents, your body releases adrenaline that masks pain or discomfort. This can last for hours or even days.
If there are other passengers, have them assess their injuries also. If injured, call for emergency health assistance. If you’re unable, ask a bystander to call for help. As you wait for help, make sure you get to safety. Oftentimes, car accidents happen in the middle of the road or in a hazardous place with oncoming traffic. If possible, pull over or leave your vehicle and get to safety.
Step 2: Go to the hospital.
It’s important you seek medical attention regardless of the extent of your injuries. Not only can they give you a professional assessment with the information you give them, they’ll also review your medical records. Your medical history plays an essential role in your recovery because previous ailments may impact your current healing process. For instance, if you have diabetes, it may take longer for your wounds to heal than if you were completely healthy.
When you’re in the doctor’s office, give as many details as possible. Simply saying you have a migraine or a backache can lead to a misdiagnosis and cause problems with recovery down the line. Give the specifics of how your vehicle was impacted by the accident as well as the damage it caused you. Your passengers should do the same to ensure they get proper treatment.
Remember to be completely honest during your injury assessment. Over-exaggerating the extent of your injuries for a larger settlement is detrimental to your treatment process, especially if you require medication. You also don’t want to incriminate yourself during a lawsuit. Doing so ruins your credibility and minimizes your chance of winning.
Step 3: Inquire about your treatment process.
Once you’re in the office and discuss your injuries, be sure to get documents concerning your treatment process. Gather as much information as possible so you can make future plans for both you and your family. If you need physical therapy or rehabilitation, it’s probable you’ll miss work. You also need to understand the details of your healing process to avoid further injury. Going to work prematurely can prolong your injuries, resulting in more time from work.
If you cannot afford to miss work, your medical documentation can also help you with a settlement or paid time off. If you don’t qualify for paid time off, you can include your medical records in your lawsuit for damages. You also need to keep records of your progress as evidence.
Car accidents can be serious and even fatal. If you’re in a car accident, make sure you properly assess your injuries. Even if you don’t immediately experience pain, see a doctor. Once you get to the hospital, give your doctor an accurate account of the accident, including how the accident occurred and your subsequent injuries. Be sure to also go over your health records with your doctor and discuss how prior injuries or health conditions may impact your recovery. If your injuries prevent you from working, it’s advised you seek legal advice for damages.