You Feel Fine, So Why See A Doctor After A Minor Car Crash?

You were stopped at a traffic light on your way home from work when a distracted driver rear-ended your beloved Mustang. You were more concerned about the damage to your car than to yourself. You felt fine after the accident, so why bother going to see a doctor?

THE UNSEEN EFFECTS OF CAR ACCIDENTS

The human body is not conditioned to endure the kind of violent jolt that results from a vehicle crash, even one as minor as a rear-end fender bender. The sudden impact produces adrenalin and other chemicals that may mask pain and injury symptoms in order to help the body cope temporarily.

Outside of some jittery nerves, you may feel okay physically, but symptoms of an injury can manifest several hours or even days later. Prompt medical attention is essential since you may have underlying injuries that are not immediately apparent.

TIMING IS KEY

When you suffer an injury because of another driver’s negligence, you have the right to pursue financial compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages and more. Keep in mind, however, that timing is critically important.

An insurance company follows certain precise criteria when making a decision about whether to accept or deny your claim. At the top of their list is how quickly you received medical attention following the accident. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance provider may conclude that something besides the car crash could have been responsible for your injuries and deny the claim as a result.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A MEDICAL REPORT

Your well-being should always be your number one consideration after a vehicle crash of any kind, meaning you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. However, there is an additional benefit to seeing a doctor.

Following your visit, your doctor will create a documented report about your injuries, including diagnostic information and the need, if any, for future medical treatments. Your medical report is essential information to provide to the insurance company when the time comes to submit a claim for compensation.