Unfortunately, injuries related to auto accidents happen all the time. Whether you’ve recently been in an accident or want to be prepared, explore our helpful list of what to do if you’ve been injured in a car accident.
Assess Injuries
Your safety is first and foremost, so take a moment to assess yourself and your injuries immediately following an auto accident. After an accident, it’s common for participants to be in a hazy shock and not even realize they could be injured; give yourself and your passengers a thorough inspection as soon as you can.
If you’re able, start a running list of injuries suffered in the accident, from simple scrapes and cuts to more severe wounds. Some injuries, like deep bruises and muscle soreness, may not appear until hours or days after the accident, so keep adding to your journal if any lingering problems arise.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even the most minor injuries can have severe consequences if left untreated. Therefore, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. Your head, neck, and back are especially vulnerable to chronic pain and ailments, so you’ll want to start any necessary treatment right away.
Make sure to describe your injuries and pains in as much detail as possible to your doctor and make it clear you’ve just been in an auto accident. Bring along a friend or relative to ensure you ask the right questions and don’t forget any essential details.
Document Injuries, Diagnosis, and Treatment
All the information about your injuries, diagnosis, and treatment could be relevant to a future insurance claim, so it’s crucial to document as much as possible. If you’re unable, have a friend, relative, or medical professional take pictures of apparent injuries.
Write down or request a copy of your doctor’s diagnosis of injuries and any tests you undergo. Keep a journal of how your injuries feel day-to-day and any medication you take in the days after so you have all the facts regarding how this auto accident has affected your daily life.
Obtain Legal Help
An auto accident is traumatizing for many; it can feel like your entire world is flipped around in one moment. Filing and fighting for an insurance claim can be time-consuming, confusing, and frustrating on your own, which is why it’s vital to obtain the legal help of an auto accident attorney.
These attorneys specialize in auto accidents and ensure you receive proper compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve experienced due to an accident. They’ll do the work fighting for your compensation while you can focus on healing and resting.
Hopefully, a car accident of this kind never happens to you, but it is helpful to know what to do if you’re ever injured. Your health and safety are most important, so seek immediate help and document your injuries as thoroughly as possible.
