Car collisions in Norfolk and Virginia Beach can be traumatic events that can leave you disoriented, in pain, and seriously injured. You may not realize that you should go to the hospital right away due to adrenaline or the shock of being in a crash.
You need to know the warning signs of when you should go to the emergency room immediately to protect your health. You should also retain an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you file your claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company and fight with them for the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
When You Should Go to the Hospital Immediately After an Auto Crash
In certain situations, seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident is vital. The following are signs that you should not ignore and require immediate care at a hospital:
- Severe bleeding. If you are experiencing profuse bleeding, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care. Have someone use a clean cloth or bandage to apply pressure to the wound while waiting for medical professionals to arrive.
- Loss of consciousness. If you lose consciousness during or after the accident, it is imperative to go to the emergency room. Loss of consciousness could indicate a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion, which requires immediate evaluation and treatment.
- Difficulty breathing. Call an ambulance if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or breathing difficulties. These symptoms may indicate internal injuries, such as a punctured lung, that require prompt attention.
- Severe pain. You should not ignore intense and persistent pain following an auto crash. It could be a sign of internal injuries, fractures, or other serious conditions requiring immediate medical attention.
- Neck or spine injury. Any suspicion of a neck or spine injury should prompt a visit to the emergency room. If you cannot move or your limbs are numb, you should be transported to the hospital via an ambulance. These injuries can be severe and require specialized care to prevent further damage.
When You Should Be Treated at Urgent Care or by Your Physician Promptly
While some injuries may not require immediate hospitalization, it is still crucial to be examined by your doctor or at an urgent care facility within 72 hours of the collision. Here are reasons to seek medical attention within this timeframe:
- Hidden injuries. Some injuries, such as whiplash, TBI, concussions, and internal bleeding, may not immediately exhibit symptoms. A medical evaluation can help identify these hidden injuries and provide appropriate treatment before they worsen or become a life-threatening emergency.
- Documentation. Seeking prompt medical attention ensures that your injuries are properly documented. This documentation can be vital to show that your injuries were caused by the car accident when filing an insurance claim and seeking compensation for your injuries.
- Disputes. If you delay seeking medical care, the at-fault motorist’s insurance company may argue that your injuries were unrelated to the wreck or not as severe as they are. You can avoid these disputes by obtaining the prompt medical care you need.
- Recovery and rehabilitation. Early medical intervention can help expedite your recovery process. It allows health care professionals to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific injuries and gives you the best chance of a full recovery.