Many people feel “fine” after a car crash, but how you feel in the moment isn’t always an accurate reflection of your condition. In addition, whether or not you seek treatment after an accident can impact your insurance claim.
So, should you see a doctor after a car accident, even if you feel fine? Yes, you should see a doctor anyway to get evaluated and document your condition for your claim.
A car accident can cause expensive, long-lasting injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, a Long Island car accident lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim.
Should You See a Doctor After a Car Accident Even if You Feel Fine?
Yes, you should always see a doctor after a car accident, even if you feel fine. Many injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding, don’t show immediate symptoms. A medical professional can identify problems early, document them, and provide treatment before your condition worsens.
In addition, medical records also create a clear link between your injuries and the accident, which is critical if you plan to pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Case Today (212) 977-2020
Should I Go to the ER After a Car Accident Even if I Feel Fine?
Whether you should go to an emergency room after a car crash depends on the severity of your injuries. If the collision resulted in airbag deployment or left you dazed, dizzy, or confused, you should go to the ER right away.
On the other hand, if the crash was minor, you may not need to go to the ER. However, you should still see a doctor within a day or two so they can examine you for whiplash, soft tissue damage, and other injuries that the crash may have caused.
How Soon After a Car Accident Should I See a Doctor?
If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to get evaluated by a doctor within 24 to 72 hours. Acting quickly not only gives you the best chance of catching hidden injuries, but it also strengthens your insurance claim.
What Happens if I Don’t See a Doctor After a Car Accident?
If you choose not to see a doctor after a car accident, you run two major risks. First, your injuries could worsen. Conditions like whiplash, concussions, or herniated discs often become more painful over time if they are not treated properly.
In addition, you could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. Without medical documentation, it becomes much harder to prove that the car accident caused your injuries, which could lead insurance companies to reduce your payout or deny your claim altogether.
How Long After a Car Accident Can Injuries Show Up?
Some car accident injuries don’t show up right away. It’s common for symptoms of soft tissue damage, concussions, or PTSD to appear hours, days, or even weeks later. Regular follow-ups with your doctor can help ensure that new symptoms are identified and treated quickly before they get worse.
What are Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident?
Delayed symptoms are one of the biggest reasons you should always seek medical care after a car crash. These may include:
- Persistent headaches from a concussion or whiplash
- Back pain caused by disc damage or spinal injuries
- Abdominal pain from internal bleeding or organ damage
- Numbness or tingling due to nerve or spinal damage
- Emotional distress caused by anxiety, depression, or PTSD
How Long After a Car Accident Can You Still Make a Claim?
Per NY CPLR § 214, you generally have three years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York. However, if the accident involved a government vehicle or public agency, you may have to file a notice of claim within 90 days.
Insurance deadlines are even stricter. Under New York’s no-fault system, you typically must file a claim for personal injury protection (PIP) benefits within 30 days of the crash. Missing these deadlines can make it difficult to recover compensation, which is why it’s crucial to act quickly.
Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Just like a doctor can protect your health after a car crash, a lawyer can protect your financial recovery. Specifically, a car accident attorney can:
- Collect evidence: A lawyer can gather medical records, police reports, and witness statements to strengthen your case.
- Assess damages: An attorney can explain the types of damages you can recover and make sure your claim includes them.
- Handle insurance companies: A lawyer can negotiate with insurers and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
- Meet deadlines: An attorney can make sure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Without representation, you may not receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a variety of injuries, including:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures
- Soft tissue injuries (like sprains, strains, or bruises)
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Cuts and lacerations
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries in a car crash, a lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim.
Speak to a Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t assume you’re in the clear just because you feel fine. Hidden injuries and delayed symptoms are common, and early treatment is essential.
Once you’ve seen a doctor, a car accident lawyer from Chaikin Trial Group Injury Lawyers can protect your rights and maximize your financial recovery.
Book a free case evaluation to start building your claim today.
