How Long After An Accident Should You See a Doctor?
Even for the calmest riders, it can be difficult to think clearly in the moments after a car or motorcycle accident. There can be countless thoughts and emotions going through your mind, seemingly at the same time. While it may not be on the forefront of your mind, it is essential that you see a doctor and see a doctor as soon as possible after a traffic accident. However, how soon after should you see a doctor? Keep reading this article to learn more about the importance of seeing a doctor after a car accident and the best time to visit the doctor.
Why you should see a doctor as soon as possible
There are countless reasons why it’s crucial that you see a doctor as soon as possible after a car or motorcycle accident. Even if your injuries are not obvious or if you think you have not suffered particularly serious injuries, it is still necessary to see a doctor. On the one hand, you may feel stressed and go into shock as a result of your traffic accident, which could potentially mask the effects of your injury, distorting your perception of pain for the time being. Additionally, some injuries, such as concussions, may not show symptoms for days or even months at a time.
You need to receive treatment for the injuries you sustained as a result of the car or motorcycle accident. By seeking medical attention, you can detect injuries, some of which could be life threatening. Therefore, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible after a traffic accident.
When to see a doctor after a car accident
If you are visibly or seriously injured at the scene of the car accident, the decision to seek immediate medical attention may be more obvious. However, it can be difficult to decide when to see a doctor after your accident if you don’t have any noticeable injuries. As mentioned earlier, because some injuries are not discernible with the naked eye, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident.
Concretely, it is necessary to see the doctor within a “reasonable” time. Along with many other California accident attorneys, Huntington Beach motorcycle accident attorney Timothy J. Ryan recommends seeing a doctor within 72 hours of an accident. By seeking medical attention within these 72 hours, you can ensure your health and safety and verify any compensation to which you are entitled.
What to do after seeking medical treatment
After getting a medical exam and receiving the appropriate treatment, it is essential that you follow your doctor’s instructions. For example, if you are advised to take time off work or undergo physical therapy a few times a week, follow your doctor’s instructions. Failure to do so can not only be harmful to your health, but also to you.
Additionally, it is advisable to keep a journal throughout this healing process that details any pain or symptoms you may be experiencing that day at a specific time. Additionally, if you experience emotional or mental pain and suffering as a result of the accident, it is advisable to also record these experiences and seek professional mental health services.
