How Soon After a Car Accident Should I See a Doctor?

Lever & Ecker, PLLC March 11, 2021 Car Accidents

The most straightforward answer to when you should see a doctor after a car accident is as soon as possible. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s always advisable to get checked out by a licensed physician within 72 hours of the crash. 

What Happens If I Don’t See a Doctor After an Auto Accident?

If you choose not to see a doctor after a car accident, not only will it negatively impact your possible insurance claim, but you may be suffering from hidden health concerns that have serious repercussions or may even be fatal. Not all injuries show symptoms immediately after an accident. Your body is in survival mode and furiously pumping adrenaline throughout your body. That means you’re not feeling the soft-tissue injuries or physical trauma caused by the crash, but you will once the shock wears off (typically within 48 hours). 

If you were recently involved in a car accident, be on the lookout for the following delayed car accident injury symptoms you should not ignore:

• Stomach pain (e.g., internal injury or bleeding)
• Dizziness or headaches (e.g., whiplash, traumatic brain injury, blood clots)
• Shoulder or neck pain (e.g., herniated disc, spinal cord injury, whiplash)
• Back pain (e.g., spinal cord injury, whiplash, pinched nerve)
• Tingling or numbness (e.g., herniated disc, pinched nerve)

How Can Seeing a Doctor Help My Case?

Besides protecting your health, visiting the doctor right away makes it easier for you to successfully pursue an injury claim in White Plains, NY. Delaying or failing to see your physician allows the insurance company to say your injuries are unrelated to your accident. In other words, they will have the leverage they need to avoid liability or compensate you less. You will have the burden of proving there was no other way for you to sustain this type of injury other than from the car accident. 

Having a record of your medical needs and treatment close in time to the date the accident or injury occurred is essential in building and proving a case. This is especially true when you may need to prove months or years later that your injuries are related to your accident.

Don’t Rush Into a Settlement

After a car accident, it is very important that you do not rush into a settlement with the insurance company or any other parties involved. The at-fault party’s insurer will likely pressure you into accepting a settlement offer that may not be enough to cover the full extent of your losses. Once you sign a release of liability form to receive compensation, it negates any future claims related to the crash. Signing this form before you have been evaluated by a medical professional or completely understanding your injuries and the treatment you may require can be a costly mistake. Some accident victims end up living with chronic pain or permanent physical limitations, leading to more expenses and lost wages. None of which can be recovered if you settle your case too soon. 

Speak to an Experienced New York Car Accident Attorney

If you waited to see a doctor or need help pursuing a car accident claim, contact Lever & Ecker, PLLC. We can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today by contacting us online or calling (877) 721-3512.