After a car crash, most people feel overwhelmed, upset and disoriented. While some injuries after a serious accident may be obvious, others may not present themselves right away.
Visiting a doctor after a car accident allows you to clearly identify, document and treat any injuries that may have occurred.
Common injuries after an accident
Car crashes cause thousands of serious injuries in Virginia every year. Common injuries from crashes include:
- Concussion or other brain injuries
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Cuts and bruises
Additionally, those involved in an accident may suffer PTSD or other mental health issues. If anyone at the scene suffers from obvious injuries that seem urgent, call 911 for an ambulance. Otherwise, you can proceed with exchanging information with other drivers involved and consider
Why seeing a doctor matters
If you receive injuries that appear less serious you may wonder if you should bother seeing a doctor. Injuries that seem minor can develop into more serious issues after a few days. If you experience pain, especially in your head and neck, a checkup helps ensure you catch any problems early.
Even a seemingly minor accident can cause injuries. The adrenaline you experience following the upsetting experience of crashing can also make it more difficult to notice pain or damage that lies below the surface. Documenting your injuries can also benefit you by giving you a clear record that what happened directly resulted from the accident.
Generally, if you have any concerns that you received injuries from an accident, you should consider seeing a doctor. Erring on the side of caution gives you peace of mind and helps ensure you get the care you need.