After a car accident, the scene may be chaotic, and you may just want to get home. However, it is always smart to seek medical care immediately.
In high-stress situations, your body’s “fight or flight” response activates, which results in adrenaline being released in your body. The adrenaline can mask aches and pains, making you think you are fine. Some of the most common injuries that can take time to develop or that are masked by adrenaline after a car accident can be found here.
1. Internal injuries
An extremely serious injury you may not detect immediately after a car accident is internal. These tend to develop slowly, which may be days or longer before you notice them. Unfortunately, internal injuries are often life-threatening.
By seeking a medical evaluation right after an accident, the doctor can run the necessary tests to find these injuries and ensure they are treated before they reach the point of being life-threatening.
2. Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when your head is “snapped” quickly forward and back (like a whip). It is common in rear-end accidents but can occur in any car accident. If you do not receive treatment for whiplash immediately, the effects can last for months or years.
Reasons to seek immediate medical care
Seeking immediate medical treatment after a car accident will help a doctor find and treat any injuries you sustained. However, there is another reason it is so important to do this. When a doctor evaluates you, they create a record that contains what injuries you sustained and the treatment plan. This can connect your injuries and the car accident and be used as evidence if you file a claim against the at-fault driver.