Posted on Wednesday, July 20th, 2022 at 11:39 am
If you have been injured in a car accident, whether it was your fault or someone else’s, it’s critical that you receive prompt medical attention. This will ensure that you get the medical care that you need. Only a doctor can diagnose your injuries, and it’s important that this happens in a timely manner. And if the accident was someone else’s fault, getting treatment and creating a medical record that shows a connection between your injuries and the accident can help you in your pursuit of compensation from the at-fault party.
Some kinds of injuries may not immediately present symptoms. This means that you could be injured and not even know it yet. These may include hairline fractures, whiplash, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and internal bleeding. Seeing a doctor as soon as you are able gives you the best chance of recovery from your injuries. When you see your doctor, you should discuss these five areas related to your injury.
Tell Your Doctor That You Were Involved in a Car Accident
When you make it clear that you have been in a car crash, this will cue your doctor to look for different things than if you just came in with a list of symptoms. An experienced doctor will know the types of injuries to look for and the associated tests and studies to perform. They will also note in your medical records that you have been involved in an accident. This is important because it will begin to establish documentation in your case. It will also help to link your injuries to the accident so that you can pursue financial compensation.
Provide Your Full Medical History to Your Doctor
It’s important that your doctor has complete information about your medical history. This includes any pre-existing conditions, prior injuries, and previous treatment you may have received. When your doctor has this information, they will be able to treat you with a complete understanding of your health. It will also be critical to establish that your injuries were directly caused by or exacerbated by the accident. If your doctor is unaware of a pre-existing condition, this could come back to negatively impact your case. An argument could be made against your doctor’s credibility, which could affect how much compensation you may be eligible to receive.
In Discussing Your Symptoms, Be as Specific and Detailed as You Can
A car accident can result in many different types of injuries. Virtually any part of the body could be injured, including the nervous system, brain, and internal organs. In order to diagnose you properly, your doctor needs to have as much information as possible about your current physical condition. Your first-hand description of your symptoms is especially key for certain injuries. These can include nerve damage and post-traumatic stress disorder. Both of these can be difficult to prove, and diagnosis heavily involves the victim’s reported symptoms.
Ask for Information About Your Treatment Plan
You need to know what to do next and what not to do. Your doctor will clearly outline the treatment plan for your recovery. It’s important that you review this with your doctor while you are at their office. Make sure you understand all the details and ask clarifying questions. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember everything you discussed during a doctor’s visit. You should make sure that all the specifics of your treatment plan are in writing, so you have everything you need going forward. You must follow your doctor’s treatment plan exactly. Failure to follow a doctor’s orders could negatively impact your ability to pursue compensation.
Ask Whether You Have Any Work Limitations
You should clarify whether you are able to return to work and, if so, whether you have any limitations on the work you are allowed to perform safely. This will make sure that you are able to stay on track with your recovery. It also establishes documentation that may be necessary if your ability to work is impacted by the injury. This may help you pursue compensation for lost wages and future earnings.
Contact Farris, Riley & Pitt, LLP Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Alabama that was caused by someone else, you may be entitled to receive financial compensation. You need to discuss your case with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as you are able. Working with a skilled attorney will allow you a better change at getting the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.
Call Farris, Riley & Pitt, LLP now at (205) 324-1212 to speak with one of our Birmingham auto accident lawyers. We are ready to schedule a free consultation with you. Our attorneys have been fighting for justice for people just like you in Alabama for more than 20 years. Let us put your mind at ease as we handle your case on your behalf. Call us now.
