If you sustained an injury in a serious car accident, you may be able to file a car accident claim even if you have not seen a doctor. But this can cause a lot of issues in your case as it can be hard to prove your injuries, how serious they are, and their impacts on your life. An Alabama car accident lawyer will always recommend that you seek medical attention even if you initially feel okay after the accident. By seeing a doctor and having documentation of your injuries, you can get higher compensation from the negligent party’s insurance company. But if didn’t see a doctor flowing the crash, you may pursue recovery for other damages like property damage.
Can You Still Go to a Doctor Days After the Accident?
Initially, trauma does not present visible symptoms. An honest discussion of the symptoms you experience with a doctor can help with injury documentation even if it has been a while after the crash. A doctor can establish a link between the car accident and your injuries.
In addition, your attorney can get a copy of the accident report that may contain notes indicating apparent injuries observed by the investigating officer, whether emergency care was given to you at the crash scene, and whether you sustained latent, internal, or hidden injuries.
Medical records are an essential part of your car accident claim, even if they are gotten later. These include ambulance records, therapy and rehabilitation records, EMT records, medical history, and diagnostic test results. Your attorney can help you get these records as they might come from different doctors or facilities. Also, your medical records and treating doctor can document how certain car accident-related injuries can initially go undetected. With a written prognosis, you can show the injuries you sustain will impact your lifestyle and future. In addition, your attorney will make sure you understand how the settlement process works, your case’s timeline, and how this can be impacted by not seeing a doctor right away.
How Timing Impacts Your Case
Whenever you choose to see a doctor can help strengthen your claim. Also, you must be mindful of the legal filing deadline. If you do not file a lawsuit within this deadline, you may not be allowed to file, the court may dismiss your case without hearing it, and you will lose your chance to recover compensation. If you have an attorney working on your case, you can be sure your case is filed on time.