If you were in a car accident, you can file a car accident case without seeing a doctor. However, it may make your case more complicated because it will make proving your injuries and their extent and effect on your life more difficult. It is not impossible, though, and a personal injury lawyer in your area can help you document your injuries.
Even if you did not seek medical care after the accident, you can still recover compensation for property damage and other costly aspects of the collision. When you are represented by a personal injury lawyer, they will explain each type of compensable damage you are entitled to receive. Your lawyer will also ensure your car accident case is not undervalued or underpaid.
Is It Too Late to See a Doctor Even if My Accident Was a While Ago?
No, because trauma patients can experience initially unseen or invisible injuries. A frank and honest discussion of your symptoms with your health care provider can help you document your injuries even at a later date. Your doctor can establish a connection between your accident and injuries.
Your lawyer can also help by obtaining a copy of your car accident report. It will contain notes that indicate:
- Any readily apparent injuries the investigating officer observed
- Whether you received emergency care at the scene
- Your injuries were internal, latent, or otherwise hidden
Medical records are an important part of your case for financial recovery, even if they are obtained later rather than immediately. The law firm you choose will ensure you understand the settlement process and timeline of your case and how it can be affected by waiting to see a doctor.
How Else Does Timing Affect My Car Accident Case?
You can seek medical care at any time, and it will help substantiate your case. You should also be mindful of the statute of limitations in your state. Failing to file your lawsuit on time could mean:
- The court will not allow it to be filed
- It will be dismissed without being heard
- You will not be able to obtain compensation
Understanding, accurately interpreting, and complying with the statute of limitations can be difficult. The legal team handling your case will ensure your case is filed on time and not put at risk by a miscalculated filing deadline.
What Medical Records Do I Need to Prove My Injuries?
Ideally, your medical file will contain proof of the medical portion of your case. Even if you see a doctor later, the following medical records are important:
- Ambulance records
- EMT reports
- Therapy and rehab records
- Diagnostic test results
- Medical history
Your lawyer will help you obtain these records since they can come from more than one medical professional or facility. Your doctor and medical records can also document how some car accident injuries might initially go undetected. A written prognosis will explain how your injuries will affect your future and lifestyle. Your lawyer will ensure it is part of your evidence file.
For a free legal consultation, call (404) 888-8888
How Will My Lawyer Use My Medical Records?
Your collected evidence will tell the cause and costs of the accident. Your medical records will prove the extent of your injuries and their toll on your life. The lawyer representing you will use them to prove these facts and to prove your injuries prevented you from returning to work to support yourself and your family.
They will be paired with your income statements to prove the amount of income you lost and with your car accident report to prove the results of the at-fault driver’s negligence.
In Addition to Medical Care, What Other Types of Damages Can I Recover?
No one should have to forego medical care after a car accident out of fear of creating medical debt. If you were injured, the at-fault driver should cover the costs of your medical care.
Your lawyer can also help you recover the following types of damages:
- Property repair or replacement
- Diminished property value
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
In rare cases, you could be entitled to punitive damages. These are only awarded if the at-fault driver’s actions were intentional or egregious. Your lawyer will let you know if your case qualifies for these additional damages.
Get Help Understanding Your Car Accident Case
If you or someone you love was hurt in a collision, you can file your car accident case without seeing a doctor. Doing so on your own can be complicated, though. At Bader Law Injury Lawyers, we are passionate about helping car accident victims get financial compensation to ensure they get the medical care they need and deserve.
Contact our case review team today to learn more about how we can help you recover damages.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
