Car accidents tend to be overwhelming and traumatic events, even in cases when the circumstances might not appear to be serious. All types of accidents, from fender-benders to large-scale crashes involving multiple motor vehicles, can result in a variety of injuries, including soft tissue injuries, traumatic brain injuries, lacerations, and internal hemorrhaging. Some injuries are obvious and immediately apparent, but some are not as pronounced. In fact, a person might have suffered a severe injury without even knowing it until days, weeks, or even months later. If the side effects of your injuries are delayed, what should you do?
Always Seek Medical Attention As Soon As Possible
One of the best ways to keep this from happening to you is by seeking a full medical evaluation in the immediate aftermath of your accident, regardless of how minor you might think it is. The fact is that you cannot know the extent of your injuries without being properly examined. For example, concussions often do not produce any immediate symptoms. However, this is a severe injury that can leave a lasting negative impact on an individual, especially if it is not treated soon after its occurrence. Not only can this be incredibly detrimental to your health and well-being, but it can also derail your personal injury case. The at-fault party’s insurance company will question the case of your injuries the longer you wait to seek medical attention, reducing your chances at obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Seek medical attention, heed your doctor’s instructions, and always attend all follow-up appointments. Tell your doctor everything that occurred during the accident and any symptoms you might be feeling. If you are not experiencing any symptoms, he or she may likely monitor your health based on your account of what happened during the accident and any tests performed during your examination. Taking these steps will help prove you sought medical attention and confirm the nature and duration of any injuries sustained.
Never Rush to Settle Your Case
If you need another reason to seek medical attention, it is to obtain an adequate amount of compensation. The at-fault party’s insurance company will likely contact you and attempt to get you to sign a release of claims you might have. They might even offer you a sum of money to encourage you to sign such a release. If you accept any kind of offer prior to being fully evaluated by a medical professional, you cannot possibly know if the amount is adequately compensating you. Chances are, the offer is not anywhere near where it should be and you will end up having to bear the burden of any expenses associated with the accident.
When you see a doctor, he or she will be able to estimate how long any symptoms of your injuries might last, or if they have not manifested yet, when you might expect them to as well as an estimated time of recovery. Without this information, it would be impossible to negotiate or accept any offers of compensation. Remember, if you accept an offer and later realize it is not enough, you cannot reopen your case.
Omaha Personal Injury Attorney
The Omaha legal team at Burnett Wilson Law is dedicated to providing injury victims the exceptional representation and the genuine compassion they deserve during what is often a challenging time. Injury-causing accidents are overwhelming and traumatic. You should take this time to focus on your recovery while a skilled personal injury attorney fights for your right to compensation. We will build a compelling case on your behalf to ensure the responsible party is held accountable for his or her actions.
We are backed by decades of experience. Contact us today at (402) 810-8611 or contact us online to schedule a free initial case evaluation.