Getting into a car accident can be extremely distressing and painful. You might feel a sense of confusion regarding what you should do after an accident, and seeking medical treatment is the first step you should take. Medical treatment enables quicker and effective diagnosis and treatment of your injuries and might even save your life.
You could file a claim for compensation if your injuries were because of another driver’s negligence. The severity and nature of your injuries also play a part in determining a fair amount of compensation. A Houston car accident attorney helps ensure that you receive your rightful compensation that reimburses the losses you suffered because of the accident.
Importance of medical treatment.
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Health risks.
Accidents can result in several injuries such as whiplash, spinal injuries, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, nerve damage, burns, and internal bleeding. Immediate medical care is necessary to prevent the symptoms worsening and becoming fatal. Delayed injuries might also occur when symptoms of injuries develop over time after the accident, and medical exams such as CT scans and X-Rays can detect symptoms earlier. It is advised to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully and do not miss any follow-up appointments.
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Prevents the reduction of your claim.
Insurance companies might often link your injuries to other reasons, such as pre-existing health conditions to reduce the value of your claim. If you do not follow your healthcare providers’ instructions or skip appointments, they can state that the worsening of your injuries was because of it and reduce or deny your claim. Ensuring that you seek treatment immediately after the accident helps protect your claim.
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Proving damages.
Your attorney collects your medical documentation to use as evidence to prove the injuries you suffered because of the other driver’s negligence. It contains the nature of your injuries, the treatment you are undergoing and its duration, your expenditure on healthcare services, and your doctor’s notes on how these injuries will affect your future. This ensures that your compensation is sufficient to recover your medical costs, your future losses because of the injuries such as loss of earning capacity, and the pain and suffering you endured.
What other steps should you take after an accident?
- Take pictures and videos of the scene to use as evidence.
- File a police report and obtain a copy.
- Get access to any surrounding surveillance camera footage that captured the accident.
- Collect the contact information of the other driver and any witnesses.
- Consult an experienced car accident attorney.
Attorneys offer valuable legal advice taking into consideration the state and federal laws while helping you take the most favorable route. They provide constant guidance and utilize their expertise to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
