If you are involved in a Louisiana traffic accident, there are many things you should remember to do. Exchanging insurance information, taking pictures of the scene and being careful not to admit fault are just a few things you may hear from experts and advisors. Skipping these steps can complicate your situation when it comes time to seek the compensation you deserve.
Perhaps the most important advice to follow after a car accident is to get medical attention. Even if your accident seems minor and you feel fine in the moments and hours afterward, you should not pass up the opportunity for a complete medical examination. If paramedics on the scene offer to look you over, it is best to allow them to assess your well-being. Afterward, you should see your own physician to ensure you have not suffered a hidden injury.
Common car accident injuries
It is not uncommon for victims of car accidents to feel no pain or discomfort immediately following an accident. This is because your adrenaline may be high, and you are distracted by the commotion and confusion of the scene. A car accident can result in some very serious injuries, and if you fail to obtain medical care, those injuries may worsen. Without a log of your treatment, you may have to fight to get the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses.
Because of the nature of a car accident, there are certain injuries that are more prevalent than others. Even with advances in safety features in most new vehicles, you may be vulnerable to any of the following injuries or others:
- Broken bones, including compound fractures that can require delicate surgery to repair
- Damage to your ankles, knees and legs, especially in front-end collisions
- Whiplash or other neck injuries, such as herniated disks
- Back injuries, including spinal cord injuries that can result in paralysis and a lifetime of pain
Perhaps the most severe injuries you may suffer are head and brain injuries. You may sustain a concussion if your head strikes another object, but brain trauma can also occur from a severe jarring and shaking of the brain even if you do not hit your head. A brain injury may heal after days or weeks, or it may lead to a lifetime of cognitive and other issues. You may require surgery, therapy or long-term care to recover, and a full recovery from a head injury is not always possible.
Because of the potential for serious and life-changing injuries after a car accident, seeking medical attention is critical for your well-being. Delaying medical treatment for a serious injury can result in complications for you physically, emotionally and financially.