After an accident, be it a slip-and-fall or a car crash, seeking prompt medical attention is one of the most crucial steps you should take. Ignoring your injuries and postponing a doctor’s visit can put your health at risk and hurt your ability to secure compensation should you decide to file a claim.
Some injuries are obvious right away, like broken bones or deep cuts. However, others might not present symptoms immediately. A traumatic brain injury, for example, can manifest as dizziness or headaches for days while the more serious underlying damage goes unnoticed. Similarly, internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can become life-threatening if untreated.
Your medical records are crucial to seeking compensation
When filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action against the negligent party, you want an official record of the injuries you suffered in the accident. Your word alone may not stand in court.
Without timely documentation of your injuries, insurance companies may contend that your injuries were pre-existing or not caused by the accident. It could weaken your claim and potentially reduce or even eliminate the compensation you may have otherwise been entitled to.
Additionally, delaying medical care can create doubts about the legitimacy of your injuries. It could be argued that if you were truly hurt, you would have sought treatment immediately after the accident. This could work against you when seeking damages for the harm and losses you suffered.
Don’t navigate such situations alone
Beyond seeking immediate medical attention, having qualified legal assistance is just as important. It can make a huge difference in protecting your interests, building a strong case and avoiding mistakes that could jeopardize your health and financial recovery.