Questions to Ask Your Doctor After a Car Accident
So it happened—you got in a car accident and got injured. Even if you don’t need to go to the ER after a car crash, you might need non-emergency treatment. But, do you know what questions to ask your doctor after a car accident?
Common Injuries In Car Accidents
There are more than 2 million car accidents each year, many with injuries. Common injuries from a car accident can include:
- soreness
- broken bones
- lacerations
- traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- paralysis
- back and/or neck injuries
- whiplash
Write Down Your Symptoms
After a car accident, but before your appointment, you’ll likely have some symptoms. Write them down as they happen so you can remember to talk to your doctor about them. Many people find they can’t remember every symptom while talking to their doctor, so writing them down can help.
Questions For Your Doctor After A Car Crash
If you were in a car accident, there are several questions you should ask your doctor. Here are the questions to ask your doctor after a car accident:
What Are My Injuries?
The most important question you need to ask your doctor is what is the nature of your injuries. Knowing the extent of your injuries can both mentally prepare you for the long road ahead AND help you with a potential lawsuit.
What Exactly Caused the Injuries?
Although this may seem obvious, your doctor is a medical expert. Their professional opinion can help your personal injury lawyer when you file a legal claim. It’s possible to have serious injuries, even in a minor collision.
If the doctor can connect your injuries directly to the crash, this will make your claim easier. You may be eligible to receive compensation.
What Can I Expect in the Future?
Be sure to ask your doctor what to expect in the future. Will you be able to return to your normal lifestyle? Unfortunately, many injuries are more than skin deep. Severe injuries can alter the course of your life—so ask your doctor so you know what to expect.
What Treatment Do I Need?
It is important to know what kind of medical treatment you need to get better. You might not recover 100%, but it is important to pursue the treatment your doctor recommends. This will also increase the value of your personal injury claim.
Will I Get Better?
It’s important not to lose hope, or feel defeated. Some injuries may never get better, even with treatment. Life-changing injuries increase the value of your personal injury case. The at-fault driver’s negligence has disrupted the course of your life. As a result, they owe you compensation.
Can I Go Back to Work?
Losing income is the biggest concern of most people we meet. You may need to get back to work as soon as possible. Ask your doctor when you can go back to your normal life—including your job.
If your injuries are severe enough, you may not be able to return to work. Or, you may not be able to perform the same duties as before the accident. This information from your doctor will aid your legal case if you can no longer work and support yourself. It is possible to include loss of current and future income to your legal claim.
How Long Will My Recovery Take?
Please know that the healing process is different for everyone. People with similar injuries can differ in how long it takes to recover. However, if you have broken bones and nerve damage, your healing journey may take months or even years. Your recovery may also be extended due to your physical therapy or medical treatment program.
What Should I Do If I’m Not Feeling Better?
It is important to communicate with your doctor during your treatment. If you aren’t feeling better, you need to know what your doctor expects you to do if you’re not getting better. Additionally, it is possible you might feel worse before you get better. Your doctor should be able to explain what to do if you’re not seeing improvement.
Ask Follow-Up Questions
Do not be afraid to ask follow-up questions or ask for an explanation when you don’t understand. Understanding your doctor’s instructions will aid in the healing process.
Consider A Second Opinion
Ask your doctor any questions you may have. Don’t be afraid to seek out a second opinion, especially if you have serious injuries or you’re not feeling better. Getting injured in a car accident can be difficult but with the right medical help and legal team, your healing journey can begin.
Free Consultation With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you’re injured in a car accident, talk to a personal injury attorney for free. Your personal injury attorney will use their experience to help you figure out what your claim could be worth. Contact a local personal injury attorney for a free consultation.