After a car accident, you may be flustered and wondering whether it makes sense to go to the hospital. The truth is that even if you think you are physically okay or only sustained a minor injury, seeking immediate medical attention is important.
Why Seeing a Doctor Is Crucial
Regardless of whether you were involved in a fender bender or are a serious multi-car pileup, you should see a doctor. You may not realize you are hurt at first because you are still shocked at what happened. Once you calm down, however, your injuries may catch up with you and leave you with a great deal of pain.
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
Some injuries may appear right after a crash while others may make their debut a few hours, days, or weeks after the accident. Several of the most common injuries that often arise after a car accident include:
Whiplash
If your head jerks violently, it creates stress on the neck and spine and leads to whiplash. Whiplash is usually seen after a rear-end collision and can lead to long-lasting health problems if it is left untreated. Whiplash can cause blurry vision, fatigue, neck stiffness, headaches, and upper back pain.
Fractures
When the physical force that hits the bone is stronger than the bone itself, a fracture may occur. Simple fractures are when the bone breaks but there is no open wound and compound fractures are when there is an open wound or break in the skin near the broken bone site.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are the result of a sudden bump, blow or other forceful impact to your head. They disrupt normal brain functioning and range from mild to severe. These types of injuries lead to long-term damage such as balance and coordination issues, depression, anxiety, and impaired perceptions.
Why See a Doctor Right Away
In addition to helping you receive the treatment, you need to improve your injury and get back to your pre-accident condition, seeing a doctor immediately can support your personal injury claim. If you do not see a doctor right after the accident, the liable party’s insurance company may believe you are not injured or exaggerating your injuries. This may prevent you from collecting the fair and full compensation you may deserve.
Contact Our Hinsdale Car Accident Lawyers
If you have been injured in a car accident that was not your fault, call our highly skilled DuPage County car accident lawyers at 630-920-8855 for a free consultation. We can review your case and increase your chances of securing maximum compensation.
Source:
https://www.dmv.org/insurance/first-steps-following-a-personal-injury-auto-accident.php