Posted on Sunday, December 1st, 2024 at 9:00 am
Being in the hospital after a car accident can be stressful. There’s a lot to deal with, such as medical care, insurance claims, and sometimes legal issues, which can feel daunting when handled all at once. This guide can help you figure out what to do if you or someone you care about is hospitalized after a car crash caused by someone else.
Prioritize Immediate Medical Attention
Taking care of your health is the most important thing after a car accident. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor immediately. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, might not show signs immediately but can become serious if not treated quickly. Going to the hospital after a crash helps ensure your injuries are documented, which is essential for any possible legal matters later on.
Understand Who Covers Medical Costs
After a car accident, many people worry about who will pay for their hospital bills. The answer can vary depending on your situation. Usually, your health insurance or the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover the medical costs. However, things can get complicated if insurance companies argue about who is at fault or if there are limits on how much they will pay.
To explore your options, you must talk to a knowledgeable Lakewood car accident lawyer, like the ones at The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs.
Collect and Preserve Medical Records
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident and had to stay in the hospital, one of the most fundamental things you can do is hang onto your medical records. They tell the story of your injuries, the care you received, and what your doctor expects for your recovery moving forward. This is all key information for negotiating with insurance companies and securing financial support.
Request copies of all relevant records, including X-rays, test results, and discharge summaries. Providing this information to your lawyer ensures they have the evidence needed to build a strong case and advocate for the compensation you’re entitled to receive.
Watch for Delayed Symptoms
Even after being discharged from the hospital, continue monitoring your health closely. Symptoms of injuries like internal bleeding or whiplash may take days or weeks to manifest. Seek follow-up care if you experience unusual pain, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms.
Document Everything
Keeping good records after being hospitalized due to a car accident is important. Make sure to write down everything in detail about your experience, including:
- Medical bills and treatment costs
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
- Any correspondence with insurance companies
These records are significant because they help determine the full compensation amount you’re entitled to.
Notify Your Insurance Company
One of the first things you’ll want to do after the accident is let your insurance company know what happened. It’s crucial to get that process started right away. Provide them details, but avoid making statements about fault or the severity of your injuries before consulting with legal counsel. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, so having an attorney from The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs can help protect your interests during this process.
Avoid Speaking Directly to the Other Party’s Insurance Adjuster
After being hospitalized in a car accident, you may receive calls from the at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster. While they might seem helpful, their goal is to minimize their company’s liability. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting settlement offers without consulting your attorney.
Seek Legal Assistance
Dealing with everything after a car accident can be confusing, especially regarding insurance and medical bills. That’s where having an experienced personal injury lawyer can make a big difference. We’re here to protect your rights and help you get the fair compensation you deserve for what you’re going through.
At The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs, we’re dedicated to helping people recover in the hospital after a car crash. Let us handle the legal side of things so you can focus on healing. Call (253) 588-6696 today for a free consultation—we’re here to help.
Your Next Steps After Being Hospitalized in a Car Crash
If you or someone you know has been hospitalized after a car crash, call us at (253) 588-6696 or contact us online. We’re here to listen, guide you through the process, and work hard to help you get the compensation you deserve.
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