3 mistakes to avoid when seeing your doctor after a car accident

On Behalf of | Jan 15, 2025 | Car Accidents |

After a car accident, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important for both health and legal reasons. However, certain mistakes before, during and after this visit can affect your recovery and legal claims. 

Here are three especially harmful mistakes to avoid when seeing a doctor after a car accident.

1. Delaying the appointment

Waiting too long to visit a doctor can result in worsening injuries and complications. Be sure to see a healthcare professional immediately after the accident, even if there are no immediate signs of serious injury. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not show symptoms right away. 

Delaying medical attention can also make it harder to prove that the accident directly caused your injuries. It can also hinder the recovery process, as early treatment often leads to better outcomes.

2. Underreporting symptoms

You should make sure to report all symptoms to the doctor, both for your own health and for your legal case. It is common for patients to focus only on the most obvious injuries or symptoms, like a sore back or neck pain. However, other symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or numbness may also indicate serious injuries. 

Being honest and thorough with the doctor about all symptoms helps ensure that you will receive the correct diagnosis and treatment plan. It is important to remember that some symptoms may not appear immediately, so informing the doctor of any discomfort is in your best interests.

3. Ignoring the doctor’s instructions

Once the doctor provides a treatment plan, follow it carefully to give yourself the best chance at a full recovery. Ignoring instructions, such as skipping physical therapy or not taking prescribed medications, can delay recovery or worsen your injuries. Failing to follow the doctor’s advice can also negatively impact any future claims. Going against the doctor’s orders can make it seem as though the injuries were not as severe as you claimed, and the insurance company will see this as an opportunity to offer you a lower settlement.

Taking the time to avoid these mistakes can significantly improve your recovery and the outcome of your insurance claims. Having the right mindset about medical treatment after a car accident will help you achieve long-term health and well-being.

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