The time immediately following a car accident can be stressful, confusing, and painful. Although many believe that seeing a doctor is only required when there is immense pain or injury, there are a number of reasons to see a doctor right after an accident, even if the pain seems manageable.

Minor Car Accident Myths

In the moments immediately following a car accident, thousands of thoughts will fly through a victim’s mind. However, unless there is immediate pain, visiting a doctor may not be one of them. Many believe that as long as there is no pain right after the accident, no injury has occurred. However, this is simply a harmful myth. In reality, there is a possibility that underlying injuries have taken place, the symptoms of which will not become apparent for hours or even days after the accident. This is because the body’s adrenaline may dilute the pain soon after the collision.

Medical Records in a Lawsuit

Car accidents can be costly, and litigation is high on the list of things to do after a collision for many. In this case, medical records can be extremely important. They can aid in the process of filing a claim with an insurance company, in addition to helping to build a legal case to receive compensation for things such as medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages after an accident. Seeing a medical professional, whether the pain seems intense or not, can help contribute to a personal injury case.

The Problem of Missing Medical Treatment

Many insurance companies will make an effort to discredit claims, diminish the severity of injuries, and reduce their payout after car accidents. For those who do not get medical treatment and thereby make medical records of their injuries after an accident, this can quickly become a challenge. Some companies may even claim that patients are faking or exaggerating their injuries if they did not receive treatment immediately after a collision.

In Florida, a person must seek medical attention within 14 days of a car accident. If not, the insurance company will not pay for the medical expenses from the personal injury protection benefits (PIP) under the Florida no-fault motor vehicle law. It is critically important that if there is a question in your mind that you may be injured from a car accident, you must get checked out by a doctor right away.

Although the time following a car accident can be overwhelming, it’s important to act quickly to seek medical treatment and contact a reputable lawyer. If you’ve been in a car accident or other personal injury incident, give Jiles Law P.A. a call at (863) 875-6900 to speak to a car accident attorney today.