5 Things to Know About Going to the Emergency Room After a Car Accident

PRESS RELEASE
Published March 14, 2024

When someone suffers a severe injury in a car accident, it is common for them to go to an emergency room. Now, this may seem straightforward at first. However, what happens to that person in the emergency room has an impact on whether they should pursue legal action against the person responsible for their injuries. 

Everything you say to the medical staff treating you can make or break your car accident claim. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and reeling from the accident. Still, try to remember these five key things about going to the emergency room. Doing so can help your case. 

1. Inform the Medical Team of ALL of Your Injuries

It’s common for crash victims to only recognize their most significant car accident injuries. This tendency is understandable, particularly in emergency rooms where patients are prioritized by medical professionals.

When your head and neck sustain severe injuries, it’s natural to prioritize care for those areas. However, disregarding smaller injuries is a mistake.

Not only could these minor injuries worsen over time, but they could also indicate underlying serious issues. Regrettably, it’s all too common for individuals to be unfairly denied compensation for untreated injuries.

Failing to report bruising on your legs, foot pain, or other injuries could lead an insurance company to dispute their connection to the accident.

2. Seek Follow-Up Treatment After They Discharge You

Besides identifying all your injuries, it’s crucial to pursue follow-up treatment after discharge. Emergency rooms prioritize life-threatening injuries, so if yours aren’t deemed life-threatening, you’ll likely be discharged swiftly. However, this doesn’t negate the necessity for further treatment.

Neglecting to seek additional treatment, even for minor injuries, can provide insurance companies with ammunition to dispute the severity of your injuries sustained in the accident. This could weaken your case and potentially diminish the compensation you’re entitled to receive.

3. Don’t Sign Anything Without Reading It

Before discharge, you’ll likely encounter a significant amount of paperwork to sign. It’s imperative to thoroughly read and comprehend each document before placing your signature.

Signing anything that suggests your injuries are limited or that you’re assuming responsibility for them could significantly jeopardize your ability to seek damages later on.

4. If You Describe The Accident, Keep It Brief

When recounting your accident to medical staff, it’s tempting to delve into intricate details. However, lengthy narratives can be misconstrued as medical staff condenses your account.

It’s advisable to keep descriptions of your accident brief. The primary concern of treating doctors and nurses is your injuries. Yet, if their reports suggest any ambiguity regarding fault attribution, it could detrimentally affect your case during settlement discussions or trial.

5. Hire an Experienced Attorney to Review Your Claim

Emergency room visits play a pivotal role in car accident cases, underscoring the necessity of promptly retaining a qualified car accident lawyer. This action can occur immediately post-discharge or even during hospitalization.

The earlier you engage legal representation, the more advantageous it is for initiating case investigations. This proactive approach enhances the prospects of securing adequate compensation to address medical expenses, lost wages, and the enduring impacts of pain and suffering.

Closing Thoughts

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident requires careful attention to various factors, including documenting injuries, seeking necessary medical treatment, understanding legal documents, and securing proficient legal representation. 

From promptly seeking medical attention and ensuring thorough documentation of injuries to being cautious with statements and paperwork, every step taken can significantly impact the outcome of a case. By following these guidelines and engaging a skilled car accident lawyer early on, you can enhance your chances of obtaining the compensation needed to address the full extent of your injuries and losses.

CDN Newswire