If you sustain an injury in a car accident, you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Americans stay in the hospital for a total of one million days every year from accident injuries. Whether you go to the emergency room, visit an urgent care office or see your primary care physician, getting medical attention after a collision is crucial.
It can be difficult to know what to do about your injuries after a crash. Here are some general suggestions on how to prioritize your health following a motor vehicle accident.
Get help whenever you have symptoms
In the event of serious and noticeable injuries, you should go to the hospital as soon as possible to receive emergency medical care. But what happens if you have minor and/or delayed symptoms? The bottom line is that seeking treatment for any signs of injury or trauma is a good idea. It may take hours or days for certain symptoms to show up. Get medical care even if you simply feel soreness, dizziness or numbness. Do not assume things will clear up on their own. You deserve to heal quickly from all injuries, from minor to severe.
Continue treatment
If a health care professional diagnoses you with an injury and prescribes treatment, make sure you follow all instructions until your doctor advises you to stop. This helps you recover as quickly as possible. It also provides extensive documentation of your injuries and the duration of your treatment, which may help if you decide to pursue a car accident claim.
Keep track of your records
Ask your doctor if you can have copies of your records. Read them over and be sure to have your doctor correct any mistakes you find. This is particularly when it comes to the description of your accident, symptoms and medical history. The accuracy of these records is vital for having a successful claim.
