WHY YOU SHOULD SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT
Automobile crashes often cause minor or severe injuries and can change the life of the victim forever. According to recent Texas Motor Vehicle Crash Statistics, there were 474,549 total traffic crashes statewide in 2020 alone. These crashes led to 128,321 injuries. Being involved in a car accident can be an emotional and unsettling experience. Seeking adequate medical attention following the incident is crucial, not only for your safety and well-being, but because it can also help document exactly what happened when pursuing a personal injury claim.
Here at my firm — Jose Orihuela, Attorney at Law — I have the legal experience and resources needed to guide and represent car accident victims and their families. As a skilled Texas personal injury attorney, I will review and investigate the surrounding details of your case, educate you about the benefits of seeking immediate medical attention, and explore all of your legal options to pursue justice. I will fight vigorously to protect your legal rights as we work together to recover the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.
My firm proudly serves clients across Houston, Texas, and the surrounding areas of South Houston, Pasadena, Clear Lake, and Alvin, Texas — so call or reach out today to learn more about how I can help you with your case.
Common Injuries After an Accident
A car accident can cause painful injuries to the driver, passenger, or other individuals on the road. Some of the most common injuries that occur after an accident include:
Whiplash
Scrapes and cuts
Head injuries
Broken ribs
Broken arms, hips, legs, and shoulders
Internal bleeding
Herniated discs
Knee trauma
Bruising
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Neck or back injuries
Concussions
Traumatic brain injuries
Why You Should Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Car accidents often lead to injuries and trauma to your body that may not be immediately visible to the naked eye. Just because you feel fine after the accident does not mean you should forego seeking immediate medical attention. Below are some of the reasons why it is critical that you receive immediate medical care after an auto accident:
For Your Own Safety
Many accident victims wait to seek medical treatment after being involved in a traffic collision, especially when they only show minor signs of injury. After an accident, it is always best to seek medical attention immediately, even if you think you aren't injured or that you only suffered minor injuries. At times, injuries can take time to fully manifest, with many symptoms appearing hours or even days later. Your overall health and well-being should always be your top priority following an accident.
For Proper Documentation
Another reason to seek immediate medical attention is for proper documentation. When filing your injury claim, you will be required to submit a variety of documents that detail the extent of your injuries and any treatment you received. This includes documentation for any medical diagnosis, medical treatments, physical therapy sessions, and doctor's appointments. If you cannot provide the required documentation, your claim may be denied or undervalued.
To Avoid Potential Issues with the Insurance Company
Unfortunately, the insurance company and their claims adjusters are in business to make money, not to pay out claims to accident victims. If you delay seeking medical attention, some insurance providers may try to use that as proof that you were not truly injured or that the extent of your injuries has been exaggerated. The insurer could argue that:
You waited too long before seeking medical attention because your injuries were inconsequential or not serious enough
An unrelated event or incident caused your injuries.
Following Through with A Treatment Plan
As important as it is to seek medical attention, it's just as important to follow through with the treatment plan that was outlined by your doctor or primary care physician. Your prescribed treatment plan may include physical therapy, prescription medication, routine checkups, or other treatment methods. Following through with the treatment plan will help you heal faster and also help with your insurance claim.
For example, if the insurer finds out that you weren't attending your physical therapy sessions, they can argue that the therapy wasn't necessary and refuse to cover the related costs. Likewise, the insurance carrier may argue that your condition deteriorated because you failed to follow the doctor's orders or treatment plan — providing them with the opportunity to reduce compensation for your claim.
Let Jose Orihuela, Attorney at Law Help
At the end of the day, surviving any type of accident can be a devastating experience. Suffering a significant injury can present serious physical, mental, and financial challenges. Luckily, you don't have to face these challenges on your own. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car accident, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney will be a crucial decision that can protect your rights and help you recover the compensation you need and deserve.
At Jose Orihuela, Attorney at Law, I have devoted my entire career to handling personal injury cases and protecting the rights of car accident victims and their loved ones. As your legal counsel, I can investigate all of the surrounding facts of your case, gather evidence and documentation, and work to prove fault so that you can achieve justice.
Never put your fate in the hands of insurance companies or claims adjusters that won't have your best interests at heart. I will fight diligently for your rights and help you recover fair financial compensation that can cover your medical costs, lost wages, and any additional pain and suffering you’ve been forced to endure.
So if you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact my firm — Jose Orihuela, Attorney at Law — today to schedule a free one-on-one consultation. I can offer you the detailed legal counsel, assistance, and strong representation you need for your car accident case. My firm proudly represents clients across Houston, Texas, and the surrounding areas of South Houston, Pasadena, Clear Lake, and Alvin, Texas. Call today to get the help you need!