Posted on Thursday, August 1st, 2024 at 9:00 am
When is it too late to go to the doctor after a car accident in Alabama? The answer varies since auto collisions cause injuries that range from minor to severe. These incidents are still a problem in Alabama and throughout the U.S. The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) recorded 144,263 crashes statewide in a recent year. That amounts to a traffic collision every 14 minutes.
Unless you’re unable to because of severe injuries, you must make an important decision about when to get medical treatment after a collision. Every case is different, but you support your health and the efforts of your Alabama car accident lawyer when you seek proper care right away.
Medical Care After a Traffic Crash
When you’re involved in a car accident, the first important decision is where to seek medical treatment. Choosing the appropriate level of care supports your well-being, boosts recovery, and creates essential documentation for any legal claims. Each option has its benefits depending on the severity of your injuries.
- Emergency Room – The ER is the best option for life-threatening injuries or when you suspect you may have internal bleeding, breathing issues, or head trauma. Emergency medical staff can manage severe conditions immediately, including serious injuries sustained in a car accident.
- Urgent Care – Urgent care centers are an option for non-life-threatening injuries that still require prompt attention. You might need same-day care for cuts, bruises, sprains, or minor fractures.
- Primary Care Physician – Your PCP is ideal for follow-up care or when injuries are less severe and do not require immediate attention.
Regardless of which option suits your needs, seeking proper medical attention within 72 hours after an auto crash is prudent to protect your legal rights.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits
In Alabama, the statute of limitations is a key factor in determining when it’s too late to see a doctor after a car accident. For adults, the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the incident.
Children are often victims of auto crashes in Alabama. For minors, the statute of limitations is extended until three years after the child turns 19, giving parents more time to observe potential delayed injuries.
Failing to file a lawsuit within the period outlined by the applicable statute of limitations could bar you from recovering compensation for your injuries, so it’s critical to consult an attorney to initiate the legal process as soon as possible following an accident.
Common Questions About Alabama Car Accidents
As the victim of a traffic collision, it is understandable that you have additional questions about medical treatment and how timing affects your claim. Here are answers to some of the most common questions car accident victims have about their legal rights.
How Long After an Accident Can You Go to the Hospital?
There is no strict legal deadline for seeking medical attention after a car accident. A good rule of thumb is to get treatment as soon as possible, well before the statute of limitations is a factor. With delays, you face challenges linking your injuries directly to the accident.
What If I Was Injured in a Work-Related Car Accident?
Different rules might apply if your car accident occurred while you were working. Workplace injuries may fall under workers’ compensation laws, requiring you to follow specific protocols for reporting and seeking medical care. You must report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. In some cases, you must notify the company within five to 90 days to preserve your workers’ compensation claim.
With work-related accidents, your employer or their insurance carrier may have a list of approved medical providers. You might be required to get treatment from these physicians to ensure your medical bills are covered. However, if your injuries are severe, you should seek immediate care from the nearest medical facility and inform your employer afterward.
How Long Do You Have to See a Doctor After a Car Accident?
This question is similar to others in the sense of balancing your medical needs and your legal rights. Get medical treatment right away after an auto crash. Sometimes, EMTs or first responders may make this decision for you by transporting you to the hospital via ambulance.
Delayed Injuries in Traffic Collisions
What are delayed injuries after an accident? Not all injuries are immediately apparent after a car accident. Some may take hours, days, or even weeks to manifest. Examples of injuries that may not display immediate symptoms include:
- Whiplash
- Bulging and herniated discs in the spine
- Concussion
Even seemingly minor injuries can still cause significant health issues if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Failing to recognize and treat delayed injuries might lead to chronic pain, long-term health problems, and shortened lifespan.
How Delays Could Harm Your Legal Rights
There are complications in legal claims when a victim waits too long to see a physician. When you do not get medical attention, you may seem to be sending the message that you were not hurt too badly. Otherwise, you would have sought care right away. The insurance company might consider this factor when reviewing your claim and offering a settlement. If your claim goes to court, the jury might see your delays in a negative light.
Another factor is the wait for compensation. Regardless of the statute of limitations, you still suffer financial losses and incur bills. Take quick action to get started with recovering damages.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in Alabama
This overview provides an important answer to the question, “When is it too late to go to the doctor after a car accident?” Because you should always make your health and well-being a priority, getting the necessary medical care is an immediate concern.
At the same time, your legal rights are a top consideration, so contact an Alabama car accident attorney immediately. For additional information about your remedies, please contact Farris, Riley & Pitt, LLP today. Call (205) 324-1212 or contact us online to set up a free case review. Our law firm will handle all the legal process while you recover from your injuries. We will help you get the compensation you deserve, alongside our recent victories. You can ask us anything related to your case.
