It's not uncommon to feel fine in the immediate aftermath of a motor vehicle accident. However, this doesn't mean that you haven't suffered a concussion, internal bleeding, or other injuries in the crash. Ideally, you will seek treatment from a medical professional as soon as you are cleared to leave the scene of the collision. It may also be in your best interest to contact an attorney to learn more about obtaining compensation from the person who caused the accident.
Why It's Important to Seek Treatment After a Crash
Going to the hospital immediately after an accident can make it easier to assert that it was the proximate cause of your injuries. In most cases, the doctor who treats you will create a written record of the severity of your injuries when they occurred, and their likely cause. This information can be used to gain leverage during settlement talks or at trial.
It may also make it easier to determine how much you may be entitled to in a settlement or judgment. Typically, you will receive 100% of the amount that you spent on medical bills incurred to treat your accident injuries. This figure will typically be included on the invoice provided to you by your treatment provider, and an attorney will likely enter this information into evidence at some point during a case.
Finally, the sooner that you seek treatment, the easier it may be to limit the severity of your injuries. In many cases, obtaining care in a timely manner for a cracked skull, broken bone, or organ damage can increase the chances of making a full recovery.
How Can an Attorney Help You Obtain a Favorable Outcome in Your Case?
There are many ways in which a legal adviser can help you obtain a positive outcome in your personal injury case. First, this person will likely file a lawsuit the day that he or she is hired to represent you. Doing so preserves your rights in the event that settlement talks aren't productive. Texas law generally gives you two years after the date of your accident to take such a step.
In addition, an attorney will coach you through the process of making a statement to your insurance company. Your adviser will minimize the odds that you say something that might be used against you at some point during the legal process. For example, your statement may be amended if it provides too much detail or implies that you were at all responsible for the accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident, don't hesitate to contact the folks at Smith & Vinson Law Firm. It may be possible to schedule an initial consultation by phone or online.