Yes, in most situations, you should go to the ER after a car accident if you have symptoms or are unsure about your condition. Some injuries are not immediately obvious and can become serious if left untreated.
Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention can help identify hidden injuries and create medical records that document what happened. If you are unsure whether your accident case would benefit from seeking medical care, you can contact our Louisville car accident attorney with Grossman Green PLLC to learn more about the legal options available to you.
What if I don’t have obvious injuries?
It’s common to feel fine immediately after a crash, even when injuries are present, because most people experience a rush of adrenaline after a crash. Accordingly, it’s always best to be checked out to ensure no life threatening injuries.
By going to the emergency room after a car accident, you can receive a full evaluation and get information on symptoms to look out for in the coming hours or even days.
What are some common symptoms of car accident injuries?
There are a number of injuries that may not be immediately evident in the way that a broken arm or laceration may be. Many of these may include head injuries, internal bleeding, or soft tissue injuries. Some of the things to look out for include:
- Abdominal pain
- Soreness or stiffness in your neck or other joints
- Spinal pain
- Changes in vision, alertness, or sensation
- Headache dizziness
- Pain or difficulty breathing
- Chest wall pain
Additionally, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is common in car accidents, and it can have lasting effects on the brain, but it is not often recognized until weeks or months after the accident.
Can going to the ER after a car accident affect my accident case?
Going to the ER creates documentation that connects your injuries to the accident. Initial documentation of your injuries can go a long way in supporting your claim to compensation.
Similarly, if you do not get medical treatment from the beginning, you may find that the insurance provider pushes back regarding the severity of your injuries, claiming that you must not be that injured if you didn’t need to go to the doctor right away. While you should not seek unnecessary treatment, you should not try to be a hero and grin and bear your injuries when you are suffering.
Who will pay for my ER visit after a car accident?
In many cases, medical providers expect payment through health insurance or personal injury protection coverage at the time of treatment. You may choose to pay out of pocket and keep the documentation, or use your health insurance benefits if you have them. However, you should be aware of subrogation rights if you choose to utilize your health insurance.
Do I have other healthcare options?
If you don’t want to go to the emergency room due to cost, accessibility, or any other reason, you may choose to see your typical primary care doctor or even an urgent care facility. However, urgent care facilities may refer you to the emergency room if they suspect serious injuries that require imaging or advanced testing.
What do I do if I did not get medical care after my accident?
If you were injured in a Kentucky car accident and have questions about medical care or your legal options, Grossman Green PLLC offers free consultations. To discuss your situation, (502) 657-7100 or schedule a free consultation online.