Things You Need to Know About Meeting With Your Doctor After an Accident

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Attorney Grant Travis | Travis Law Firm | Personal Injury Attorney, DUI Defense Attorney, Criminal Defense Attorney | Serving Erie, Crawford, Warren & all of Northwestern PA | Call the Travis Law Firm at 814-277-2222 today!

If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident, slip and fall, or other personal injury accident, one of the first steps you should take is to see a doctor. Regardless of whether you believe you are seriously injured, it is in your best interest to be checked by a physician after an accident.

The symptoms of some accident injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), whiplash, and back injuries, may not be noticeable for hours or days after an accident. However, early diagnosis and treatment of accident injuries can improve your chances of recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Therefore, seeking medical treatment after an accidental injury is a prudent step for your health and your accident claim.

What Do I Tell My Doctor About the Accident?

When you are treated in an emergency room, or you go to see your family doctor after an accident, you need to tell the doctor what caused your injury. Be very specific when you tell your doctor that the injury was caused by a car crash, fall, defective product, work injury, or other accident. You need the physician to make a note in the record that you are seeking treatment for an injury sustained in an accident. This step is important for your injury claim.

Three other very important steps to remember when seeking medical attention after an accident are:

  • Take Notes and Follow Up

Each time you visit your doctor, take notes to make sure you remember everything your doctor tells you about your condition. You must also follow the treatment plan and return for follow up visits. An insurance company can use your refusal of treatment and gaps in treatment to dispute your claim.  If you do not agree with your doctor’s assessment, seek a second option instead of ignoring your doctor’s advice.

  • Ask Questions

Make sure that you understand your injuries and the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. You should ask your doctor to explain the severity of your injuries and your prognosis for recovery. Also, ask your doctor if you may return to work and if you are under any restrictions for work or activities. It is important that you do not return to work or perform other activities until your doctor has released you to do so. By returning to work too early, you may jeopardize your claim.

  • Keep Copies of Everything

It is usually a good idea to purchase a folder to keep copies of the records related to your accident, injury, and recovery. You will need this information when you file a claim. Make sure you keep copies of all receipts and other proof of costs for any expenses related to your accident.

Meet with an Erie, PA Accident Attorney As Soon As Possible

The steps you take after an accidental injury can greatly impact your ability to recover compensation for an injury claim. To avoid making mistakes that could jeopardize your claim, you should contact an Erie accident attorney immediately.

For a free legal consultation with an accident attorney in Erie, call The Travis Law Firm at (800) 401-2066.