Importance of seeing a doctor right after a car accident

On Behalf of | Nov 29, 2017 | Firm News |

Due to the state’s immense population, thousands of car accidents occur every month. In 2016, a total of 395,834 car crashes occurred in Florida, according to the state’s Integrated Report Exchange System.

Many of these  crashes end up being relatively minor fender benders. However, people should see a doctor regardless of how severe the accident seemed. While some injuries, such as bruises and open wounds, will be apparent immediately, other injuries remain hidden for weeks or possibly months.

Psychological suffering

Occasionally, the wounds people develop after a car accident are not physical. It is not unheard of for drivers and passengers to develop post-traumatic stress disorder after a collision, especially if it was particularly bad. Some people have even developed phobias of getting inside a vehicle. Seeing a doctor right after a car accident can help develop a clear link between the psychological damage and the incident in case the person ends up seeking compensation for damages in court.

Traumatic brain injuries

People can seriously damage their brains in a car accident in a manner similar to receiving a concussion. There may not be any signs on the surface, but months down the line, the person starts experiencing excessive mood swings and extreme forgetfulness. Many times after a car accident, a doctor will take an MRI of the person’s brain to see if there is any underlying damage.

Shoulder and knee injuries

People anywhere in a vehicle can damage their knees from jolting forward and striking the dashboard or seat in front of them. People can also hurt their shoulders from being swung by the seat belt. The pain may not always be readily apparent immediately following the crash. Another possibility is that an inflammation will develop in these areas if a doctor cannot treat it promptly. It is simply best to have a doctor examination after a crash to gain the peace of mind everything is all right.

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