The types of injuries sustained in a car accident can range widely, from minor cuts and bruises to serious, life-threatening injuries. But no matter what kind of injuries you have suffered, it is important to seek care from a medical professional as soon as possible. In some cases, this care will be best done in an emergency room, but in other cases, you can take the time to seek out a provider. If you aren’t sure what types of injuries you’ve suffered, it can be helpful to visit a car accident doctor who will specialize in your scenario. These doctors are experts at diagnosing and treating injuries like yours, as well as dealing with the insurance and billing issues related to car accidents. While you may see a variety of providers, car accident doctors are going to be the most beneficial to your recovery.
Emergency Care After an Accident
It is very likely that first responders will show up at the scene of your accident and do a general evaluation of all parties. This will allow them to manage any immediate injuries and check for symptoms that may indicate severe issues. Even if you feel fine at the moment, you may be told that you need to go to the hospital via ambulance. If this is the case, you should always listen to the police and first responders. Some injuries require emergency treatment, including anything involving loss of consciousness, confusion, extreme bleeding, or head injuries.
Don’t See Your Primary Care Physician
If you do not need emergency treatment and plan to follow up, it can be tempting to visit your general practitioner. While you may have a good relationship with this doctor, or simply be comfortable with them, primary care doctors do not specialize in the types of injuries you may have sustained. Instead, car accident doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating these injuries.
Even if you do visit a PCP, they will most likely refer you to a specialist for your specific injuries. This can often add time before you are able to get treatment and create unnecessary extra steps for you. Instead, a car accident doctor will be able to begin your treatment right away and have experience with other patients in similar situations.
Do I Need a Doctor?
In short, yes. Even if you feel okay in the aftermath of a car accident, it is common for symptoms to be delayed. When this happens, you are walking around with an untreated injury before you can seek treatment. It is best practice to seek care quickly and from an expert who can recognize the signs of whiplash, concussion, and other common consequences of car accidents. Then, you can begin treatment right away, before you experience symptoms or the problem worsens.
Not only is seeking medical care the best thing to do for your body, but it is important if your accident will result in an insurance claim or any litigation. These processes will require extensive documentation that many doctors are not used to providing, while car accident doctors know to keep thorough medical records to the standards of an insurance company. These experts can also help you navigate the billing process due to their experience with the payment and insurance process surrounding car accidents.
Types of Care
When you visit a car accident doctor, you will likely benefit from a range of therapies and treatments. Many injuries relate to the spine and will involve the assessment of a chiropractor, who can help identify and resolve any misalignments in the spine that are causing pain or contributing to other issues in the body. In severe cases, they may also work with orthopedists to explore surgery and other options.
Physical therapists will be a part of the recovery for many injuries, including common ones like whiplash. By developing an exercise program that reduces pain, strengthens muscles, and improves flexibility, physical therapy aims to help you return to the pain and activity levels you were at prior to your accident. This may be done in conjunction with pain management specialists who ensure you are able to cope as you heal.
Whatever combination of treatments you are in need of, a car accident doctor is able to holistically understand your injuries and how the circumstances of your accident impact them. These experts ensure you are able to recover quickly and safely, while also facilitating your insurance-related needs.
