A car crash can leave you shaken, sore, and uncertain about what to do next. You might be wondering, Should I go to the hospital after a car accident?
It’s a question that many Texans face in the hours or days after a crash. Seeking medical care can feel like a big decision, especially if you’re unsure whether it’s “necessary” or who will be responsible for the bill.
At The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., we understand the confusion and anxiety that follow an accident. Our legal team has helped injured Texans for decades, and we’re here to ensure that you get the information and support you need to move forward.
This article will discuss whether you should see a doctor after a car accident, common injuries that may not show symptoms immediately, and what happens if you don’t go to the hospital right away.
After a Car Accident, Should I Go to the Hospital?
After a collision, some injuries are obvious. But for others, your body may be flooded with adrenaline. That rush can mask pain, making it difficult to assess the severity of your injuries in the moment. And unfortunately, some serious injuries don’t always present symptoms right away.
But you should always be seen by a medical professional after a car accident.
Going to the hospital allows medical professionals to perform imaging tests, monitor you for delayed symptoms, and create a clear record of your injuries. These actions support your recovery and become crucial if you later need to file a personal injury claim.
Common Injuries That May Not Show Symptoms Right Away
Not all injuries are immediately apparent. Some of the most common car accident-related injuries may take hours or days to reveal themselves. These include:
- Whiplash,
- Concussions,
- Internal bleeding, and
- Emotional or psychological trauma (such as PTSD).
A medical evaluation can detect these issues early, even before you feel the full effects. It also ensures you’re not brushing off something that could become serious later.
What Happens If I Don’t Go to the Hospital Right Away?
It’s not uncommon for accident victims to feel “fine” immediately after a crash, only to wake up days later with intense pain, stiffness, or other symptoms. Unfortunately, waiting too long to get checked out can make recovery more difficult and reduce your ability to file a successful claim.
Even if doctors eventually diagnose a serious injury, a gap in treatment may raise questions. Without early documentation connecting your injury to the crash, it becomes much easier for insurers to dispute your case.
Insurance companies often exploit delays to argue that:
- Your injuries are minor or unrelated. If you didn’t go to the hospital immediately, adjusters may say your condition isn’t serious or caused by something else.
- You’re exaggerating your symptoms. Without a medical record showing early complaints, insurers may claim you’re overstating how badly you’re hurt.
- There’s no proof that the accident caused the injury. A delay can break the chain of causation, making it harder to prove that the crash, not another event, led to your condition.
Untreated injuries can worsen over time or become chronic. For example, a soft tissue injury like whiplash can develop into long-term neck pain or limited mobility if not addressed early.
Seeking prompt medical attention also protects your health and creates a clear medical record that connects your injuries to the accident. It’s a simple step that can prevent a cascade of complications later.
Should I See a Doctor After a Car Accident?
Yes. Seeing a doctor is critical, even if you’ve already visited the ER. While hospitals often focus on ruling out life-threatening injuries, they may not catch everything.
Follow-up care with a primary care physician, specialist, or physical therapist can:
- Identify ongoing symptoms or complications,
- Begin the process of rehabilitation, and
- Document the full scope of your injury and recovery process.
This continued care is often essential in proving the seriousness of your injuries in a personal injury claim.
Talk to a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Today
Uncertainty is expected after a crash, especially when deciding whether to go to the hospital after a car accident.
With over 85 years of combined legal experience, the attorneys at The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. have guided countless Texans through the confusion that follows a crash. We’re known for being accessible, compassionate, and hands-on. You won’t be passed off from person to person.
We meet with you directly, wherever you are, whether that’s your home, a hospital room, or at our office. Our team offers free consultations, and you won’t owe us anything unless we recover your compensation.
If you’re unsure what to do next, talking to a lawyer could help protect your health, finances, and future. Reach out to The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. today.
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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