Seeking medical attention after a car accident can protect your health and your right to compensation.
Even if you have minor injuries, seeing a doctor at your local urgent care or emergency room could mean better access to a fast and fair settlement for your losses.
The danger of latent symptoms
Car accidents are always a shock to the body. The rush of adrenaline will mask pain receptors, sometimes for several hours after the crash. During that time, internal injuries could cause irreparable damage if left untreated.
Seeking a complete medical evaluation after a car accident is the most effective way to protect your health. Doctors in urgent care clinics and hospital emergency departments have experience treating car crash victims. If you feel you do not need emergency care, you should still schedule an appointment with your primary care physician for a checkup.
Help protect your claim
Most insurance compares require a medical review within 72 hours of your accident. Therefore, seeing a doctor right away strengthens your claim. A doctor in emergency care knows what to include in a car crash evaluation and how to document it adequately in your medical records. Those records are an important piece of evidence proving damages and connecting your injuries to the accident.
Statute of limitations in Arizona
In Arizona, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for your losses. In most cases, claims settle without suing, especially if you have ample evidence.
Acting fast to get medical care is the safest way to protect your health and your claim.
