One of the most significant errors people make after being involved in a wreck is failing to see a licensed medical professional to check for injuries. Neglecting to see a doctor can adversely affect your health and eligibility to collect compensation from the party responsible for the crash. If you were in a motor vehicle accident and sustained injuries—even if the injuries do not seem significant—you should see a medical practitioner immediately.
Meeting with a doctor after a Bridgeport car accident could mean collecting monetary damages to cover all of your out-of-pocket medical expenses, your salary if you must stay home to recuperate, and your pain and suffering. Failing to do so could mean losing out on the financial recovery you deserve. If you are ready to take legal action for your losses, then Bring on Bert!
The Benefits of Seeking Medical Care After an Auto Collision
Even when the injuries are not severe, seeking medical care after an accident with a negligent motorist is critical. In many cases, an injury may not feel serious initially—but the next day or even a week later—that could change. A doctor’s diagnosis is vital evidence to support you sustained damages in the crash.
The civil court will also consider any hospital bills and records when calculating an award amount. Without proof of injuries and damages, there is nothing to support a civil lawsuit. Immediate medical care also gives you the best chance of full recovery from the injuries you sustained.
A comprehensive award for all the medical expenses related to the injuries you suffered from a motor vehicle wreck could cover the following:
- Current, past, and future medical bills
- Physical therapy
- Psychological therapies
- Medical equipment and prescriptions
As a seasoned Bridgeport attorney could further explain, meeting with a doctor after an auto collision is critical to a civil claim for monetary damages.
The Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
It is not uncommon for individuals to opt out of seeing a healthcare provider because of the high cost of care. However, an injured person has the legal right to collect compensation from the negligent driver to cover the entire cost of medical care and other damages related to the crash.
Importantly, there is a strict court-enforced time limit for filing a lawsuit that an injured person must be aware of and ensure they meet. According to the Connecticut General Statutes § 52-584, a plaintiff must commence legal action within two years of the vehicle collision.
If they are not aware of their injuries right away, they have two years from the date of discovery. If the plaintiff does not seek damage recovery before the deadline, the judge will likely dismiss the case and leave them with no other options. A knowledgeable Bridgeport personal injury lawyer, like Bert McDowell, could answer any questions you may have about meeting with a medical professional after a car accident and the civil court filing process in Bridgeport.
An Experienced Bridgeport Attorney Could Explain the Importance of Meeting with a Doctor After a Car Accident
A motor vehicle crash can leave you in pain, confused, and unsure of where to turn for help. Doctors and medical care providers play a significant role in the auto collision civil claim process. Seeing a physician right away is always the best place to start.
Meeting with a doctor after a Bridgeport car accident will ensure you have sufficient evidence to verify your injuries and collect the fair award amount you deserve, should you pursue legal action. It will also ensure you heal properly from the injuries you sustained. If you have any questions about this process, reach out to a dedicated legal professional at Bert McDowell Injury Law to set up a meeting.