Prompt medical attention is imperative following a car crash, even if it is a minor rear-end collision. You may feel fine and be tempted to go on home, but visit a doctor instead.
Symptoms of underlying medical issues may not show up right away. A medical report will be important for your state of health, and you should document the entire experience, beginning with the accident itself.
Pay attention to symptoms
You probably know that headaches might indicate a more severe brain injury such as a concussion or TBI, but did you know that abdominal pain could signal internal bleeding? This is a serious issue that needs to be diagnosed and treated immediately. Back pain is another symptom you might not feel right away, but this could indicate damage to ligaments, nerves, muscles or your vertebrae. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is also a common result of a car crash. Children, especially, may suffer PTSD and relive the accident through flashbacks and nightmares.
Take photos
Your cellphone will come in handy following even a minor accident. If you have visible injuries, take pictures of them, or ask someone else to take photographs using your camera. While you are at it, take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the license plate of the other vehicle and the crash site, including identifying objects, like street signs. The photos will be very helpful to the attorney who negotiates for additional compensation on your behalf.
Keep daily records
Obviously, your priority is to recover and get back to good health. However, a personal injury attorney will confirm that in terms of maximizing your financial compensation, it will be important for you to keep a journal about your medical experiences and your daily progress. Keep receipts for any related costs, such as prescription medicine, and maintain records for the travel required for medical appointments. No-fault insurance will cover your medical costs initially, but you may also be eligible for financial compensation from other insurance sources.