Even a minor car accident can be a scary and painful experience for the drivers and passengers involved. Regardless of the severity, it is important to see a doctor after being in a car accident to be evaluated for any injuries or harm. Speak with a New York car accident lawyer to learn about your options and why seeking medical attention is an integral step of the legal process.
Why is it Important to Get Evaluated?
Going to a doctor or hospital after you are involved in a car accident is crucial for several reasons. Consider the following.
- For your health. Whether or not you feel pain it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional who can assess any damage or injury and treat you to ensure you heal properly.
- As proof for insurance. You need to report the accident to your insurance company and request compensation. Insurance providers will generally attempt to give out the least amount of money possible. Seeing a doctor means having evidence of the extent of your injuries and the associated costs.
- As proof for a lawsuit. If you wish to pursue legal action against the negligent party in the accident, you will probably file a lawsuit against them. As the plaintiff it is your duty to prove in court that the defendant acted recklessly or negligently which caused the accident and therefore your injuries. You need evidence that your injuries exist and testimony from a medical professional of how the damage was caused.
While your health should be your top priority, seeking medical attention is important in more ways than one.
How Long Do I Have to See a Doctor After a Car Accident?
New York does not have a specific time limit on how long you can wait to seek medical treatment after a car accident for the purpose of filing a claim or lawsuit. However, it can be beneficial in many ways to see a doctor sooner rather than later after being involved in an accident.
Acting quickly is important firstly to ensure your health and safety. Car accident injuries can be severe so letting any damage go untreated can worsen your condition and create long-lasting effects. Even if you don’t feel like anything is wrong a medical professional can look for signs of hidden injuries and treat them before they get worse.
It is also important to see a doctor soon after your accident so you can seek compensation through insurance or a lawsuit. If you do not get evaluated you are leaving yourself vulnerable to your insurance company claiming that your injuries are not that bad or that you sustained them after the accident in an unrelated way. Additionally, seeking immediate medical treatment can prove to a judge or jury that you did take steps to care for your injuries. It will also create a paper trail of documented evidence of your injuries and treatments.
Contact Zlotolow & Associates Today
If you or someone you know were injured in a car accident in New York it is vital that you acquire a trusted attorney. Your lawyer will work to gather and organize evidence, negotiate a settlement on your behalf, and represent you in court. Reach out to our skilled attorneys to schedule your free consultation today.