Key Takeaways
- You should see a doctor within 24 to 72 hours after a car accident, even if you feel fine — some injuries have delayed symptoms.
- Medical records create a documented link between your accident and injuries, which is essential for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
- Delaying treatment can allow the insurance company to argue your injuries are unrelated to the crash.
- Missouri's 5-year statute of limitations applies to personal injury lawsuits, but prompt medical care strengthens your case.
Why You Should See a Doctor After a Car Accident
Yes, you should get a full medical evaluation as soon as possible after a Missouri car accident. It is best to do so within 24 to 72 hours, even if you do not think you're hurt. Some injuries do not present noticeable symptoms right away, and getting medical care establishes a documented connection between your car accident and your injuries that is essential for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
It is essential to understand how medical treatment impacts your settlement amount. When you go to the doctor or hospital, it creates documentation that connects your car accident with your injuries. This is how medical records affect pain and suffering claims as well. If you have proof you sought immediate medical treatment, it is hard for insurers to try to say your injuries happened in another way or aren't as disruptive to your life.
The most compelling reason you should go to the doctor after you've been in a car accident is really for your own health. Nothing can replace good health, and when you seek medical care right away, it allows for early detection and prompt treatment. Some injuries take a day or two for symptoms to show up, and that allows your condition to worsen. In cases that involve traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord damage, delaying treatment could put you in a life-threatening situation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Missouri?
Missouri's personal injury laws provide a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, of 5 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit with civil courts. This might seem like a lot of time, but waiting too long to get medical treatment means the insurance company can deny your claim on the grounds that your injuries can't be linked to the crash. The more time you waste not filing, the more likely evidence will disappear as well, so it's best to what to do after a car accident while things are still fresh.
Can I Go to Urgent Care Instead of the Emergency Room?
You can certainly go to an urgent care or even your own physician after a car accident, though it is only best to do so for minor injuries. If you suspect whiplash, sprains, or minor bruises, urgent care can be a great option that comes with shorter wait times.
However, if you lost consciousness, are in severe pain, or are struggling to breathe, go immediately to the nearest emergency room. Do not worry about anything else as our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys will ensure everything about your case is handled while you get the care you need.
What if I Feel Fine but the Other Driver Was at Fault?
After a car accident in Missouri, it's still smart to see a doctor even if you feel just fine. Adrenaline kicks in during situations like these and it can easily mask the pain. Don't ever remark about how you feel while at the scene, and don't refuse medical care. While you may not be in the middle of a medical emergency, you may still have significant injuries and the at-fault driver and their insurer should be covering the costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I didn’t go to the doctor right after my accident?
It's never too late to seek medical care, but the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove your injuries are related to the crash. See a doctor as soon as possible and consult a car accident attorney about your options.
Should I contact authorities after a car accident?
Yes. Missouri law requires you to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $500. Learn more about should i contact authorities after a car accident to understand your legal obligations.
Do I call my insurance if the accident wasn’t my fault?
Yes, you should notify your insurance company about the accident even if you weren't at fault. Read our guide on do i call my insurance if it's not my fault for step-by-step guidance.
Contact The Bruning Law Firm
The Bruning Law Firm is here to help St. Louis car accident victims understand their rights under Missouri personal injury law and how delayed treatment could derail a car accident injury claim. We charge no fee unless we win, so call our St. Louis car accident injury claim lawyers at (314) 735-8100 today for your free consultation.