Why it's critical that you seek medical attention after a crash
You were just in a car accident. Your car looks beat up, but you feel OK enough to get out and survey the crash scene. You go through all the standard procedures after a crash — exchange insurance information with the other driver, call the police, take pictures of the crash scene, and even get the contact information from witnesses.
If you feel fine enough to continue going about your day, don't be deceived. Pain from an injury can have a way of tricking you into thinking you don't need medical attention. The symptoms of an injury often set in days later.
What types of injuries produce delayed symptoms?
- Whiplash: A neck injury caused by a rapid backward and forward motion of the neck, usually caused by rear-end collisions. Symptoms may appear within the first 24 hours of a crash, but could take several days. Symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, limited neck mobility, headaches, pain in shoulders and upper back, tingling in arms and hands, dizziness, and poor concentration.
- Back injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord or discs resulting in back pain, as well as pain and tingling in the limbs.
- Concussions and mild traumatic brain injuries: The most common type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head (could result in loss of consciousness). Symptoms may show up within the first seven to 10 days after a crash. They usually include headaches, confusion, loss of memory, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, mood changes, and sensitivity to light.
What will happen after I seek medical attention?
Once you receive a medical evaluation, your doctor can determine the extent of your injury and discusses treatment options. Your doctor may suggest that you avoid any kind of strenuous activity until you recover — this includes duties you may perform at work.
Not only will your medical treatment cost money, you may not be able to afford to make ends meet if you're not working. That's why you should consult with an experienced car accident attorney after meeting with your doctor. You may be entitled to compensation to cover the costs, as well as other damages.
How can a car accident lawyer help me?
Your crash may have been caused by someone else's negligent or reckless behavior. If so, the other driver's insurance company is obligated to compensate you for all damages accrued from your crash. Insurance companies aren't interested in paying this, so, they'll often take advantage of injured motorists who don't know their rights.
For example, they may:
- Try to place the blame on you
- Say that your injuries are exaggerated
- Tell you there is no need to file a claim or consult with an attorney
- Offer you a lowball settlement that doesn't cover all of your damages
The Omaha attorneys at Ausman Law Firm P.C., L.L.O. has been dealing with insurance companies for more than a decade. We know how to place an accurate value on your car accident claim and negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement. If a settlement can't be reached, we'll be ready to go to trial.
You shouldn't have to pay out of your own pocket because of someone else's negligence. Contact us online to find out how we can help.
