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When should I seek medical attention after a car accident?

Car accidents can be incredibly traumatic experiences, leaving you shaken, confused, and sometimes injured. In the immediate aftermath of a collision, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and well-being. Certain injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, even if you initially feel fine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the importance of seeking medical attention after a car accident and guide you through the steps to ensure your safety.

Understanding Delayed Symptoms:

After a car accident, adrenaline can mask pain and other symptoms, leading you to believe you’re uninjured. However, several injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries, might not become apparent until hours or even days later. It’s essential to recognize these delayed symptoms and seek medical attention promptly.

Consulting with Medical Professionals:

After a car accident, it’s advisable to consult with medical professionals who can assess your condition thoroughly. The type of doctor you should see may vary depending on your symptoms and injuries. Our experts recommend consulting with primary care physicians, urgent care centers, or emergency rooms, depending on the severity of your condition.

  • Primary Care Physicians: If you experience minor discomfort or suspect mild injuries, scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician is a sensible first step. They can conduct a comprehensive evaluation and provide referrals if necessary.
  • Urgent Care Centers: Urgent care facilities are well-equipped to handle non-life-threatening injuries and offer immediate medical attention. They can perform X-rays and diagnostic tests to rule out hidden injuries.
  • Emergency Rooms: For severe injuries, such as fractures, head trauma, or internal bleeding, heading to the nearest emergency room is crucial. They have the resources to provide immediate care and diagnostic testing, ensuring your safety.

Documenting Your Injuries:

Documenting your injuries and medical treatment for insurance and legal purposes is essential. Taking photographs of visible injuries, keeping records of medical appointments, and following treatment plans are critical steps in the process.

Types of Injuries to Watch Out For:

Car accidents can result in various injuries, including soft tissue injuries, fractures, head injuries, and spinal injuries. These injuries may have delayed symptoms and can lead to long-term complications if left untreated. It’s vital to be aware of these potential injuries and seek medical attention promptly to prevent further harm.

Steps to Take at the Scene of the Accident:

In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, it’s essential to stay calm and take specific steps:

  • Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of the traffic to avoid further accidents.
  • Exchange Information: Exchange insurance information and contact details with the other parties involved. Gather witness statements if possible.
  • Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
  • Contact the Police: Report the accident to the police, even if it’s minor. A police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
  • Seek Medical Attention: If you have any doubts about your health, seek immediate medical attention. It’s better to be cautious and get a medical evaluation.
  • Contact Your Attorneys at Castan, Lecca & Boeschen: After ensuring your immediate safety and medical needs are addressed, consider contacting the experienced legal team at Castan, Lecca & Boeschen. Our dedicated attorneys specialize in personal injury cases, including car accidents. We can provide guidance on how to proceed, offer legal advice, and help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and potential legal actions. Your initial consultation with us is free, and we are here t
  • o protect your rights and assist you in receiving the compensation you deserve.

Legal Considerations:

Seeking medical attention after a car accident not only safeguards your health but also plays a vital role in any potential legal claims. If you delay seeking medical help, insurance companies and opposing parties may argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed. This can affect your ability to seek compensation for medical bills and other damages.

How a Lawyer Can Help:

If you’ve sustained significant injuries in a car accident, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney. At Castan Lecca & Boeschen we can help you navigate the legal aspects of your case, ensure you receive fair compensation, and assist in gathering evidence to support your claim. An experienced attorney can negotiate with insurance companies, handle paperwork, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

The Consequences of Not Seeking Medical Attention:

Failing to seek medical attention after a car accident can have serious consequences. Firstly, it puts your health at risk as some injuries may worsen over time without treatment. Secondly, it can weaken your potential personal injury claim, as insurance companies may question the severity of your injuries. Delayed treatment may lead to complications, longer recovery times, and increased medical costs.

Emotional and Psychological Impact:

According to The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) are the leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the general population. Each year, there are an estimated six million MVAs in the United States, resulting in over 2.5 million injuries. According to a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) study, 39.2% of MVA survivors develop PTSD. Feelings of fear, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can manifest in the aftermath of a collision. It’s essential to seek therapy or counseling if you experience emotional distress, as addressing these issues is crucial for your overall well-being.

Prevention and Safety Tips:

To reduce the risk of car accidents, consider the following safety tips:

  • Safe Driving Practices: Obey traffic laws, avoid distractions, and stay focused on the road.
  • Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition to prevent mechanical failures.
  • Wear Seatbelts: Always wear seatbelts, and ensure all passengers do the same.
  • Defensive Driving: Be aware of your surroundings, anticipate potential hazards, and maintain a safe following distance.
  • Avoid Impaired Driving: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident and are unsure about your next steps, the experienced legal team at Castan, Lecca & Boeschen is here to help. Our dedicated attorneys specialize in personal injury cases and have a track record of successfully representing clients in car accident claims. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through the process to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

In the aftermath of a car accident, your health should always be your top priority. Delayed injuries can have serious consequences, so seeking medical attention promptly is crucial. Whether you choose to see your primary care physician, visit an urgent care center, or head to the emergency room, don’t underestimate the importance of a comprehensive medical evaluation. Additionally, documenting your injuries and seeking legal guidance, if necessary, can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve.

In conclusion, by following these guidelines, you can make informed decisions about seeking medical attention after a car accident. Remember that your health and safety should always come first, and seeking timely medical care can make a significant difference in your recovery and any potential legal actions.

You may also be interested in: What are the most common injuries after a car accident

 

 

 

 

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Dustin Thompson

Attorney

Dustin Thompson was raised in rural Camilla, Georgia. Dustin graduated from Georgia Southern University majoring in political science and history. After graduation, Dustin obtained a law degree from Georgia State University College of Law in Atlanta. Before becoming a lawyer, Dustin worked a variety of jobs from a watermelon farm in Mitchell County to a policy think tank in Washington D.C. Dustin has practiced law almost exclusively in the workers’ compensation arena since 2014. For nearly a decade, he worked for a large defense firm in Georgia representing employers and insurers and gaining the invaluable experience and knowledge of how insurers defend claims. In 2023, Dustin joined the firm to use his expertise and litigation skills to help individuals who have been injured as a result of work accidents and third-party negligence.  Dustin has been repeatedly recognized by Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” in the practice of workers’ compensation. Outside of work, Dustin enjoys traveling, hunting, and attending sporting events. He and his family are active in Buckhead Church.

MICHAEL BOESCHEN

Attorney

Michael Boeschen (Mike) was born in Wichita, KS and raised in Chattanooga, TN. Mike graduated from The McCallie School and went on to study history, Spanish, and Latin American Studies at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. After graduation, he went on to pursue a law degree from the University Of Georgia School Of Law. During law school, Mike participated in the Legal Aid Clinic, assisting in the defense of indigent criminal defendants. Mike has been licensed to practice law in Georgia since 2002 and his main practice area consists of representing injured workers as they navigate through the Georgia workers’ compensation system. Mike is also fluent in Spanish. In his spare time Mike enjoys following soccer, cooking, and spending time with his wife and two young daughters. Mike and his family are parishioners of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Sandy Springs, GA

CHRISTIAN PECONE

Attorney

ED DENKER

Attorney

Edward Denker was born in Philadelphia, PA but has made Georgia his home since 1999. He graduated from the Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts. He then earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Georgia. Edward spent his first years in practice representing clients in personal injury and wrongful death claims. He then spent more than a decade honing his litigation skills representing employers and insurers in workers’ compensation claims, where he gained immense experience and knowledge of how insurers defend those claims. In 2017, Edward returned to his passion of representing people who have been injured at work or through the negligence of others. When he isn’t working, Edward enjoys spending time with his wife and their two children. He is also an avid sports fan, and enjoys cooking and travel

ILIANA DOBREV

Attorney

Iliana Dobrev was born in Bulgaria. After high school, she immigrated to the United States to study law. She graduated magna cum laude from Georgia State University with a Bachelor’s in political science concentrating on pre-law and minoring in Spanish. In 2015, she graduated from Georgia State University College of Law. While in law school, Iliana completed a Graduate Research Assistantship in Labor and Employment Law and Employment Discrimination and two externships in Immigration Law. As an immigrant herself, Iliana is passionate about advocating for and defending immigrants. She is delighted to help families stay together and pursue the American dream. Iliana is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and worked in both a fellowship and a firm specializing in immigration law. Iliana is fluent in Bulgarian and Spanish
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KEN THAXTON

Attorney

Ken Thaxton was born and raised in Roberta, GA. When Ken was a child, his father started a trucking business, which Ken ultimately spent over ten years working with through his late teens and twenties. Ken graduated from Houston County High School in Warner Robins, GA in 2001 with a 4.0 GPA. He then studied Business and Information Technology at Macon State College, ultimately graduating with a 4.0 GPA in 2004. After graduation, Ken continued to work with his father’s trucking company, and in late 2005, Ken and his father started an aircraft charter company, Southern Jet, Inc., under Part 135 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. Ken served as President of Southern Jet from 2006 until 2010, when he and his father sold the company. Ken is a Commercially Licensed Instrument, Multi-Engine Pilot. While serving as President of Southern Jet, Ken started Law School at the University of Georgia School of Law in 2009. Ken focused primarily on business and civil law, including Workers’ Compensation, while at UGA. He graduated Cum Laude and in the top 25% of his class from UGA Law in 2012. Ken is a licensed to practice law in the State of Georgia, and he is also a licensed neutral (mediator) in the State of Georgia. Ken represents small businesses in transactional matters and business conflicts, and he also represents injured workers and Plaintiffs injured in cases of negligence. During his spare time, Ken enjoys swimming, cycling, sporting clays, and fishing. He also does charity work with a national scholarship fund
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ALEXANDER LECCA

Attorney

Alexander Lecca (Alex) was born in Miami, Florida to immigrant parents from Cuba and Peru. Alex graduated from Coral Gables High School, where he was a recipient of the Elsa Glazer Award (given to students who graduate with a 3.5 GPA and above). He went on to study marketing at the University of Miami School of Business Administration. At the University of Miami he was also a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. After graduation, he went on to pursue a law degree from St. Thomas University School of Law. In law school, Alex received several book awards and graduated Cum Laude. During law school Alex clerked for the Honorable Beth Bloom, had an internship with the Miami-Dade County Public Defender’s office, and clerked for a prestigious litigation law firm. Alex is licensed to practice law in both Georgia and Florida and handles workers’ compensation and personal injury cases. He is also a registered mediator with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution. Alex is also fluent in Spanish. During his spare time, Alex enjoys outdoor activities with his wife and four children. He also helps coach his children’s baseball, football, basketball, and soccer teams. Alex and his family are parishioners of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church

DANIEL CASTAN 

Attorney

Dan Castan is a senior partner at Castan and Lecca, PC in Buckhead and represents injured workers before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation and plaintiffs in State and Superior Courts of Georgia for injuries suffered in accidents. Dan litigated one of the seminal claims securing the rights of undocumented workers to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits in the state of Georgia when injured in the case of Wet Walls, Inc. vs. Ledesma. Dan has successfully fought and settled multi million dollar cases. He was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey to immigrant parents from Cuba. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Boston College and received his Juris Doctor from The Washington College of Law at The American University in Washington D.C.  Dan was admitted to the Georgia Bar in November, 1993.  He is an active member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, Atlanta Bar Association and the Workers’ Compensation Section of the State Bar of Georgia. Dan is a founding member and Director of the Latino Victory Fund Georgia and serves on the Board of The Latin American Association. Dan has been dedicated to getting Latinos elected to local, state and Federal offices in Georgia. He has been a Big Brother through Big Brothers and Sisters of Metro Atlanta and a mentor through The Latin American Association’s mentor/mentee program. Dan is married with two children.