One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is to decline medical attention at the scene. Many collision-related injuries have a delayed onset or could be masked by the shock and adrenaline that you feel after the crash. But refusing medical treatment could make it difficult for you to obtain full compensation from the at-fault party if you experience symptoms of an injury later.
Insurance adjusters look at how promptly you received medical treatment when calculating a settlement offer after an auto accident. The longer you take to see a doctor, the more ammunition they have to argue that you weren’t as seriously hurt as you claim to be or that the crash didn’t even cause your injuries. That’s why it’s vital to be seen by a medical professional right away after an accident, even if you “feel fine.”
The Brockton car accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan can advise you of your legal options and help you pursue the compensation you need after a car accident in Massachusetts. Call or contact our firm today for a free consultation with a respected personal injury lawyer.
Why You Should See a Doctor Right Away
Many people skip a trip to the hospital because they feel OK, but this is a mistake that could cost them — literally. It is crucial to be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible after an accident. Only a medical professional will be able to detect hidden injuries that you may not even feel yet.
Many serious injuries, including ruptured organs, whiplash, and brain bleeds, do not always manifest right away. Leaving those injuries undetected could mean the difference between life and death. Seeing a doctor increases the likelihood of detecting injuries that could cost you dearly, both personally and financially.
The other reason that you should see a doctor immediately is that insurance companies typically require that you seek medical care within a “reasonable” amount of time, which is often ― but not always ― defined as 72 hours after the accident. If a medical professional did not evaluate you within the allotted time frame, the insurance company could argue that your injuries are not the result of the crash.
Remember that insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their loyalty is to their shareholders, not claimants or policyholders. Claims adjusters are trained to use a variety of tools to reduce or even deny legitimate claims. Failing to see a healthcare provider on time could be used against you to minimize your payout or decline it entirely. By seeking prompt medical attention, you create a direct link to the accident and your injuries. That makes it much more difficult for an insurance company to dispute your claim.
What If My Accident Injuries Don’t Show Up Right Away?
Many injuries don’t show up immediately after a car accident. For example, symptoms of whiplash can take days, weeks, or even months to develop. Concussions may also not be immediately apparent to car accident victims. While these injuries are generally considered mild and people experience a full recovery, that is not always the case. Both can have lasting consequences.
Even if you believe that you don’t need medical care, your physician might be able to help you avert the onset of delayed injury symptoms by providing preventative treatment. Getting a medical evaluation will support your case that your injury is still connected to the crash.
Is it Ever Too Late To See a Doctor?
If you fail to visit a medical professional within the insurance company’s “reasonable” time limit, it may be more difficult to secure compensation for crash-related injuries. The best thing you can do for yourself, both for your health and for your finances, is to be seen by a medical professional right away. If you experience delayed symptoms, you can always return to the doctor later for further evaluation and treatment. But getting that first evaluation will improve your chances of making a legitimate claim for the money you deserve, even if your injuries don’t turn up until later.
With that said, don’t lose hope. There is a three-year statute of limitations, or time limit, on personal injury lawsuits in Massachusetts. A car accident lawyer can determine whether you have a valid case and fight for the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Brockton, MA Today
If you have been injured in a car accident in Brockton, don’t hesitate to contact the dedicated car accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan today. Our team can conduct an independent investigation into the accident, gather evidence to help bolster your claim, calculate your damages, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve for your financial losses. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.