Should I Seek Medical Attention After a Kansas City Car Accident Even If I Feel Fine?
If you’re involved in a car accident in Kansas City and walk away feeling fine, you might wonder if seeking medical attention is imperative, though you might feel fine. The short answer is yes. Complications from car accidents can arise hours or even days later and can have significant legal and health consequences if not addressed immediately.
Complications from car accidents can arise hours or even days later and can have significant legal and health consequences if not addressed immediately. Don’t wait to seek help; call Wendt Law at 816-542-6734 to set up a free consultation and ensure your rights are protected.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention After a Car Accident
A car accident can leave you with more than just a damaged vehicle. It can cause severe injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Immediately getting a medical check-up after a car accident is significant for your health and for any potential legal consequences.
We will now explore the reasons why you should get a medical examination post-accident, irrespective of whether you feel pain or not.
Hidden Injuries
You’ve survived a Kansas City car accident and, despite feeling a bit shaken up, you seem to be in good shape. But, before you breathe a sigh of relief, Bear in mind that some injuries caused by car accidents may not be apparent immediately and can surface hours or even days later.
Symptoms of hidden injuries like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries can take time to manifest, thus, receiving immediate medical care is essential, regardless of whether there is initial pain or not. It’s important to understand that the body may be in a state of shock after an accident, which can mask pain and symptoms. This natural defense mechanism can lead to a person underestimating their injuries, highlighting the importance of a thorough medical examination. A healthcare professional can perform the necessary evaluations and tests, such as MRIs or CT scans, to ensure that any and all injuries, whether obvious or hidden, are properly diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.
Legal Implications
Aside from the potential health implications, not seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident can complicate your personal injury claim. A gap in medical treatment can be used by the opposing party to argue that your injuries were not a result of the car accident, or that they are not as severe as you claim. Prompt medical care provides necessary documentation, such as x-rays and doctor’s testimony, to substantiate that your injuries are linked to the accident.
Health Risks
Beyond the immediate pain and discomfort, untreated injuries from car accidents can lead to long-term complications. Conditions such as chronic pain, decreased mobility, and even permanent disability can arise from injuries left untreated. Moreover, undiagnosed conditions like concussions can lead to serious and potentially fatal outcomes, further emphasizing the need for immediate medical attention after a car accident.
Types of Delayed Onset Injuries
Considering the risk of concealed injuries, understanding the variety of delayed onset injuries that can follow a car accident is of utmost importance. These injuries, which can include whiplash, concussions, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries, often do not surface immediately due to the body’s initial shock response.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury that can occur even in minor car accidents. Whiplash happens when the head and neck move quickly in a back-and-forth motion, leading to muscle or ligament damage. This can result from events such as car accidents or sports injuries.
Symptoms of whiplash, such as neck pain and stiffness, often develop within days of the injury and may worsen with neck movement.
Concussions
Concussions are another type of injury that may not be immediately evident after a car accident. This traumatic brain injury can result from the violent shaking of the head during a car accident, even if there is no direct impact to the head. Symptoms can include:
- Persistent or severe headaches
- Memory problems
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Internal Injuries
Some of the most dangerous car accident injuries are those that occur internally. Though these injuries may not present obvious symptoms but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Being aware of the actions to take right after a car accident can safeguard your well-being and legal rights. From assessing your condition to notifying authorities and documenting the scene, each step plays a crucial role in the aftermath of a car accident.
Assess Your Condition
The first step after a car accident is to assess your condition. This includes checking for any immediate injuries and seeking medical attention, regardless of whether you feel fine or not. Remember, some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could emerge hours or even days later. It’s also important to consider a car accident claim if you’ve suffered any damages or injuries.
Notify Authorities and Exchange Information
After ensuring your safety, the next step is to notify the authorities and exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved in the accident. This step is critical in recording the incident and can offer essential details for any forthcoming legal or insurance processes.
Document the Accident Scene
It’s also important to document the accident scene to the extent possible. This includes taking photographs of the accident scene, noting the conditions of the road and weather, and taking down the details of any eyewitnesses.
Such recorded evidence, like medical records, can be critical for your insurance claim or any possible legal proceedings.
When to Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Following a car accident, you may be uncertain about the appropriate time to consult a personal injury attorney. Each situation varies, however, there are specific scenarios where obtaining legal counsel can be particularly advantageous.
Severe Injuries or High Medical Bills
If you’ve suffered severe injuries as a result of a car accident or if you’re facing high medical bills, it’s advisable to seek legal representation. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you calculate your total damages, including medical expenses and lost wages, and seek fair compensation.
Disputed Liability or Complex Cases
In cases where the liability is disputed or the case is complex, having a legal professional on your side can be invaluable. An attorney can help establish fault, guide you through the intricacies of the law, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Insurance Company Issues
Dealing with insurance companies can often be challenging and frustrating. If you’re having issues with your insurance company, such as receiving inadequate settlement offers or facing delay tactics, hiring an attorney can help you through these issues and negotiate a fair settlement.
How Wendt Law Can Help You
In the aftermath of a car accident, it’s crucial to remember that the absence of immediate pain doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unharmed. Hidden injuries are common, and their impacts can be severe and far-reaching. Seeking immediate medical attention, documenting the accident, and consulting with a personal injury attorney can help ensure your health and protect your legal rights.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, Wendt Law can provide the following services:
- Helping you understand your legal rights and options
- Fighting for maximum compensation
- Advocating for your rights
- Ensuring you receive the justice you deserve.
Legal Guidance
Wendt Law offers thorough legal advice to those affected by car accidents. This includes:
- preparing and filing the necessary legal documents
- guiding you through the nuances of personal injury litigation
- providing a free initial case evaluation.
To arrange your free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys, call us today at 816-542-6734.
Compensation Recovery
At Wendt Law, our goal is to procure the highest possible compensation for our clients. This includes compensation for:
- pain and suffering
- medical bills
- lost wages
- and more
We work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the justice they deserve.
Other Practice Areas
In addition to car accident cases, Wendt Law also offers legal services in various other personal injury practice areas, including:
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability
- Wrongful death
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if you’re okay after a car accident?
If you experience any injuries or pain days or weeks after a car accident, seek immediate medical attention as there may be underlying issues that require treatment. It’s important not to dismiss any lingering pain as a minor issue.
Why you should seek medical attention after an accident?
Seeking medical attention after an accident is crucial because it can prevent exacerbation of injury, prolonged pain, and long-term disability, while also providing documentation to support any future claims for damages. It’s important to prioritize your health and well-being in the aftermath of an accident.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, causing the head and neck to rapidly move back and forth, leading to symptoms such as neck pain and stiffness.
When should I consult a personal injury attorney?
You should consult a personal injury attorney if you’ve suffered severe injuries, are facing high medical bills, or if the liability for the accident is being disputed. It’s important to seek legal counsel in these situations to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
What can Wendt Law do for me?
Wendt Law can provide legal guidance, help you understand your rights and options, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Whether you’re seeking legal advice or representation, Wendt Law can assist you in navigating your legal options.
