Always Get Medical Attention Immediately After an Accident
After any type of car, motorcycle or vehicle accident, it is important to go to a hospital or see a doctor right away, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. There are two main reasons why doing so is crucial. First, a doctor may notice serious problems even if you do not feel any symptoms. Second, having a medical professional document your condition can provide you with vital evidence in case you are involved in a legal action later.
One recent New York case tragically illustrates why both reasons for seeking medical attention are essential. A man rear-ended by a truck on his way to work hit his head in the crash, but because his car suffered little damage, he continued on to work. Though he did not initially appear to be injured, he was soon sleeping irregularly, avoiding food, and suffering from neck pain and headaches. Days later, he attempted to drive himself to a hospital, but he lost control of the left side of his body as he was arriving. He was diagnosed with a type of brain damage called hemiparesis, as well as bleeding in his brain, and died from his injury soon after.
When his family tried to bring a claim against the owner of the trucking company responsible for the accident, the company’s legal team alleged that the man probably suffered a stroke unrelated to the accident. After years of pushback from the trucking company and a court case, the parties ultimately ended up settling the case.
This man’s untimely death is just one example of why it’s so important to seek medical attention after any accident. Had he gone to a hospital immediately, a doctor may have noticed his symptoms — and his family may also have had clear evidence that would have allowed them to avoid a prolonged legal battle.
If you have been involved in any type of accident, seek help from a medical professional right away, and then contact us. The experienced and knowledgeable auto accident attorneys at Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia help victims pursue compensation for auto wreck injuries throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.