After a car accident, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Many injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can become serious over time.
It is recommended to see a doctor within 72 hours after the accident to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment, which is important for both health and legal reasons. Most insurance companies prefer that you file a claim as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of the accident.
Some insurers may have specific deadlines, such as 20 days, but it varies by policy and insurer. Delaying medical treatment can complicate your ability to file a successful insurance claim or lawsuit.
States have their own laws for personal injury claims.
In Florida, you have 14 days to seek medical attention to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.
Why See a Doctor Immediately After a Car Accident?
Hidden Injuries
Car accidents can cause injuries that are not immediately apparent. For example, whiplash, a common injury, may not show symptoms until days after the accident. Internal injuries, such as bleeding or organ damage, might not cause pain right away but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Internal injuries are another concern. These injuries can include internal bleeding, organ damage, or other serious conditions that may not present immediate symptoms. For instance, internal bleeding might cause dizziness, fainting, or abdominal pain, but these symptoms can take hours or even days to manifest.
By the time symptoms appear, the condition could have worsened significantly, making treatment more complicated and less effective.
Legal and Insurance Reasons
Seeing a doctor promptly helps document your injuries, which is necessary if you plan to file a personal injury claim.
Insurance companies often require medical documentation to process claims. Delaying medical care can lead to complications in proving that your injuries were caused by the accident.
Moreover, having a documented medical record immediately following the accident provides clear evidence of your injuries. The documentation can include medical reports, diagnostic tests, and doctor’s notes, all of which can be important in building a strong personal injury case.
Without this documentation, proving the extent and cause of your injuries becomes much more challenging.
How Soon Should You See a Doctor?
Emergency Situations
Within 24 to 48 Hours
For less severe injuries, it’s best to see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours of the accident. This timeframe allows for early detection of injuries that may not be immediately obvious. Visiting an urgent care center or your primary care physician can help diagnose and treat these injuries promptly.
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to get checked by a doctor within this timeframe. Some injuries, such as soft tissue injuries or minor fractures, might not cause immediate pain but can worsen over time.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these injuries from becoming more serious and ensure a quicker recovery.
Additionally, seeing a doctor within 24 to 48 hours helps establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
Up to 3 to 5 Days
While it’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible, seeing one within 3 to 5 days is still acceptable. However, the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to link your injuries to the accident. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were caused by something else if you delay medical care.
Moreover, waiting too long to seek medical attention can allow injuries to worsen. For example, a minor back injury might develop into chronic pain if not treated promptly.
What If You Wait Too Long?
Complications in Proving Injuries
Delaying medical care can make it challenging to prove that your injuries were caused by the car accident. Insurance companies may deny your claim or offer a lower settlement if there is a significant gap between the accident and your medical visit.
Insurance companies often look for any reason to reduce their liability. A significant delay between the accident and your medical visit can give them grounds to argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
They might suggest that your injuries were pre-existing or caused by another event, making it difficult to secure a fair settlement.
Worsening Health Conditions
Untreated injuries can lead to long-term health issues that affect your ability to work, perform daily activities, and enjoy life. For instance, a minor fracture might heal improperly if not treated right away, leading to long-term issues with mobility and function.
Chronic pain conditions can develop if injuries are not treated promptly, making everyday activities more difficult and painful.
Legal Implications
Each state has its own laws regarding personal injury claims, including specific timeframes within which you must seek medical attention. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to file a claim and receive compensation for your injuries.
Consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand the legal requirements in your state and ensure that you take the necessary steps to protect your rights.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Always prioritize your health. Call 911 if you have severe injuries or visit an emergency room, urgent care center, or your primary care physician as soon as possible.
Immediate medical attention is helpful to assess the extent of your injuries and begin appropriate treatment. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to get checked by a doctor.
Document Your Injuries
Keep detailed records of your medical visits, including diagnoses, treatments, and prescribed medications. Take photos of visible injuries and maintain a journal of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
Detailed documentation of your injuries is a must if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Medical records, diagnostic tests, and doctor’s notes provide clear evidence of your injuries and the recommended treatment plan.
Photos of visible injuries can also help document the extent of your injuries and how they have affected your daily life.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you plan to file a personal injury claim, consult with a lawyer who specializes in car accidents.