After experiencing a car accident, it’s important that injury victims take charge of their health to assist in recovering fair compensation. In 2013, 2.07 million passenger car occupants were injured in accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). After experiencing injuries, victims can help their doctors and lawyers by seeking treatment and following orders.
Be Your Own Advocate
The days and weeks after a car accident can be stressful. However, it’s possible to make yourself an integral part of a successful personal injury case. Those who have suffered injuries can help their potential injury claim by:
- Seeking prompt medical care. Making sure you get treatment for your injuries as soon as possible after your accident shows insurance companies that your injuries are legitimate and a top priority.
- Informing of full medical history. Doctors need complete records and information in order to make informed decisions on a patient’s treatment plan. Also, providing all information shows your commitment to successful treatment.
- Attending all doctor appointments. Showing up to a doctor’s appointment prepared with records and on time is a crucial part of showing insurance companies you are dedicated to your treatment.
- Following doctor’s orders. If a doctor prescribes rest, the patient should rest. If a doctor suggests avoiding bright lights and loud music to help a traumatic brain injury, the patient should follow orders—even if it’s inconvenient or annoying. Obeying directives shows how much a patient values his recovery.
- Taking medications as prescribed. It’s important to follow directions for taking medications in the right dose and at the right time of day. Also, be sure to avoid foods or beverages doctors warn against to prevent adverse reactions.
- Keeping doctors informed about changes in health. If an injury victim experiences an increase in pain, numbness, dizziness, or other abnormal sensations, it’s important she reports them to her doctor so he can adjust his treatment accordingly.
- Seeking treatment for depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for injury victims to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety after an accident. Seeking treatment for these side effects is an important part of advocating for yourself.
- Updating doctors about how injuries affect work. Injury victims should be honest about how their injuries affect their job performance and overall health. Taking time off from work because of an injury might be frustrating, but it actually shows that the patient is committed to taking proper care of an injury
- Keeping detailed records. Any time a doctor gives you orders, prescribes new medications, performs a test, or conducts a procedure, write it down. Also, make sure you get copies of reports, notes, test results, and analyses of your injury by the doctor. If you have trouble understanding something, ask detailed questions and record the answers.
Finding a Legal Advocate
Patients can help themselves by taking charge of their own health after an accident. However, it might be necessary to seek the legal help of a trusted attorney, too. The team at Tavss Fletcher dedicates itself to helping injury victims recover fair compensation, and we can help you too. To get started, fill out the easy online contact form today.
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