The aftermath of a car accident can be truly disorienting, and knowing what to do after one is essential. If you’ve just been in a car accident, it is crucial to take the time to seek medical attention regardless of whether or not you have any immediately perceivable injuries.
Even if your adrenaline is pumping from the shock of an accident, ignoring possible signs of injury may put your health—and even your life—at risk.
Invisible injuries
It can be challenging to assess the extent of an injury immediately following a car accident, as adrenaline can mask pain and other symptoms. For example, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and whiplash symptoms can appear immediately following a car accident, or they can manifest in days, weeks or even months. Even if you don’t feel any immediate pain or discomfort, getting checked out by a doctor is still important.
The consequences of not seeking medical attention after a car accident can be severe. The earlier any potential injuries are identified and treated, the better the outcome will likely be in the long run. Not only could your injuries worsen over time without proper treatment, but failing to seek medical attention could also hurt your chances of receiving compensation for damages resulting from the accident. In Georgia, you have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit, but having documentation immediately following the accident will likely increase your chances of a successful claim.
If you are ever involved in a car accident, ensure that your health and safety come first by seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Doing so will help to ensure that any potential injuries are properly treated and documented so you can receive the compensation you deserve for any damages incurred as a result of the accident.