The moments after a car accident are often a blur of confusion, pain, and overwhelming emotions. As you try to process what just happened, you may feel unsure about what to do next. While calling the police and exchanging insurance information with the other driver are important steps, one of the most critical things you can do is seek prompt medical attention—even if you don't think you've been seriously injured.
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we've helped countless Rhode Island car accident victims with their legal cases. Our experienced car accident lawyers know that the decisions you make about your medical care can significantly impact your health and legal rights.
Why Prompt Medical Care Is Essential for Your Health
It's not uncommon for car accident victims to downplay their injuries or assume they'll feel better after a day or two of rest. However, delaying medical treatment can have serious consequences:
Hidden injuries may worsen without treatment: Some of the most serious car accident injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show obvious symptoms right away. Once you realize something is wrong, the condition may have progressed to a dangerous stage. Prompt medical evaluation can catch these hidden injuries early, when they're most treatable.
Minor aches and pains can indicate more serious problems: Stiffness, soreness, and minor aches are easy to dismiss after the trauma of a crash. But these seemingly minor discomforts can be early warning signs of conditions like whiplash, spinal cord damage, or soft tissue injuries. A qualified medical professional can determine if your symptoms require further investigation or specialized treatment.
Early intervention improves long-term prognosis: In many cases, the sooner you begin treatment for car accident injuries, the better your chances of making a full recovery. Delaying care can lead to complications, longer recovery times, and potentially permanent impairments. Prompt medical attention gives you the best opportunity to return to your pre-accident health.
How Proper Medical Care Strengthens Your Legal Case
In addition to protecting your health, getting timely and appropriate medical care after a Rhode Island car accident is one of the most important things you can do to protect your legal rights. Here's why:
Medical Records Document Your Injuries
When you pursue a car accident claim, medical records from qualified health care providers serve as crucial evidence linking the crash to your injuries. Without this documentation, the insurance company may argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident or are not as severe as you claim. By seeking prompt medical care, you create a clear paper trail connecting the collision to your condition.
Following Treatment Plans Demonstrates Severity
Insurance adjusters are always looking for reasons to minimize payouts. If you delay seeking treatment or fail to follow your doctor's recommendations, the insurer may claim that your injuries must not be that serious. By diligently adhering to your treatment plan and attending all follow-up appointments, you're demonstrating the legitimacy and severity of your condition.
Specialists Provide Essential Evidence
Your primary care doctor is a good starting point, but it's often necessary to see specialists for serious car accident injuries. For example, a neurologist can diagnose and document a traumatic brain injury, while an orthopedic surgeon can best speak to the extent and prognosis of spinal damage. These expert opinions carry significant weight in settlement negotiations and court proceedings.
What to Do After a Rhode Island Car Accident
Now that you understand the importance of prompt and proper medical care, here are the steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights after a Rhode Island car accident:
- Call 911 and report the accident to the police.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. If you're not taken directly to the hospital from the scene, follow up with your primary care doctor or an urgent care clinic as soon as possible.
- Follow your doctor's treatment plan carefully. Take all medications as prescribed, attend all follow-up appointments, and complete any recommended therapies.
- Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and correspondence related to your injuries.
- Contact an experienced Rhode Island car accident lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options.
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we understand how overwhelming a car accident can be. That's why we're here to handle the legal heavy lifting while you focus on your health and recovery.
