Read on to discover the approach you should take at a doctor’s appointment and how a seasoned Tampa car accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A. can guide you through the necessary steps.
What kind of doctor should I visit after a car accident?
In short, the kind of doctor you visit may depend on the exact injuries you incur in your car accident event. For example, you should dial 911 to have a team of emergency medical technicians respond to the scene if you receive life-threatening injuries (i.e., traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal bleeding, etc). immediately after the impact of your car collision. Soon after, you may be transported to the emergency room via an ambulance so an emergency room doctor can give you the additional care you need.
In another example, you should drive to an urgent care facility or your primary care doctor’s office if you feel you got somewhat bruised or battered upon the impact of your car collision. Specifically, you should go directly from the scene of your car accident to the doctor for a walk-in appointment, after you finish speaking with a law enforcement officer, the other involved drivers, etc. Here, the doctor may be able to run an initial physical examination on you to determine the scope of your incurred injuries.
In turn, if you believe you need a specific medical examination done, you should still visit your primary care doctor. From here, they may refer you to a medical specialist you are looking for (i.e., orthopedic surgeon, physical therapist, etc). Of note, you should schedule an appointment with this medical specialist right after you leave your appointment with your primary care doctor.
What approach should I take at a doctor’s appointment after a car accident?
Regardless of whether you visit an emergency room, urgent care, primary care, or specialty doctor, you must make the most of your appointment with them. That is, it is in your best interest to take the following approach:
- You must inform your doctor of all your symptoms, everything that feels painful, and everything that feels “off” with your body.
- You must inform your doctor of the events of your car accident event, including where the point of collision was located in proximity to your body.
- You must inform your doctor of how your physical, mental, and emotional pain has affected your day-to-day life since your car accident event.
- You must submit to and execute all medical tests, procedures, and prescriptions your doctor has recommended.
- You must schedule and attend all follow-up appointments and follow the treatment plan your doctor has recommended.
- You must ask your doctor for copies of your medical records, medical bills, and their statement about your physical condition.
- You must ask your doctor about their willingness to testify on your behalf in your upcoming personal injury claim proceedings.
In conclusion, there is far more to explain than this blog has only begun to cover. For more information, please get in touch with a competent Tampa auto accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A. We look forward to collaborating with you.
