Should I go to the ER after a car accident? It’s a question a lot of people ask once the shock wears off. You may feel fine at first. You may even convince yourself you’re just sore.
But after a crash, injuries don’t always show up right away. If there’s any doubt about how you’re feeling, going to the emergency room is often the safest move.
If you’re unsure what to do next, an Orlando car accident lawyer at DWK Law can help you understand how seeking medical care fits into your situation.
Why is seeking medical attention after a car crash so important?
A crash happens in seconds, and you may not remember exactly how your body moved or what you hit inside the vehicle. That’s normal. When you experience sudden trauma like that, your body releases a hormone called epinephrine (adrenaline), which doctors may call the “fight or flight” hormone.
That release will cover up the pain you might otherwise feel from serious injuries, which is why it’s important that you get medical care. It might take hours or even days before you realize how badly you’ve been hurt. Conditions like head injuries or internal bleeding can quietly get worse without treatment if you don’t visit an urgent care center or your primary care doctor for an exam.
What are some ways to get care after an accident?
If your injuries seem serious, paramedics may take you straight to the emergency room.
If you feel stable, you might visit urgent care facilities or schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. The important thing is not ignoring symptoms or waiting too long to be seen.
Care after an accident doesn’t have to look one specific way. What matters is that you’re evaluated and that your injuries are documented.
What are some symptoms that I’ve been hurt in a car crash?
While the symptoms for your injuries depend on what’s happened, there are some indicators of head injuries, spinal damage, or internal bleeding. Get to a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Headaches or dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Sharp or worsening pain
- Pain or difficulty breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
- Fluid from the ears or nose
- Changes in vision or hearing
How does going to the ER after a car accident help me file for compensation?
In Florida, all drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which helps cover medical bills after a crash. In some instances, you have the right to file against the other driver’s insurance or file a personal injury lawsuit. Regardless of which option you use, insurance companies look closely at medical records when deciding whether to pay a claim.
To do that, you need medical records, scans, and doctors’ reports indicating that your injuries resulted directly from the car crash. If there’s a long delay before you seek treatment, they may question whether the accident caused your injuries. If they can successfully deny your claim, you could end up paying your bills out of your own pocket.
When should I speak with a lawyer about my accident?
If you’re feeling unsure about what to do next, you don’t have to figure it out alone. DWK Law works with people throughout Orlando who are trying to make sense of what happened and the next steps.
You can call (407) 244-3000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and talk through your situation.