Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant music scene, tech industry, and beautiful outdoor spaces. It is a city that thrives on energy and innovation. As the state capital and with loads of tourist attractions, Austin attracts thousands of visitors each year.
If you’re ever involved in an accident in Austin, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. While it may seem tempting to avoid going to the doctor, delaying treatment can have a significant impact on your personal injury (PI) claim.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how not getting immediate medical attention can hurt your case and why acting quickly is crucial when pursuing compensation for your injuries. Additionally, we’ll explore how personal injury lawyers in Austin can guide you through the process.
Why Immediate Medical Attention is Crucial
Immediate medical attention is vital for two reasons: your health and your claim. Many injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, may not show immediate symptoms. A delay in treatment can worsen these injuries. On the other hand, getting immediate medical attention helps identify and treat any hidden injuries early.
Additionally, studies show that insurance companies are more likely to challenge claims when there’s a significant gap between the accident and medical treatment. Any delay in seeing a doctor makes it harder to prove that your injuries are linked to the accident. Getting medical attention right away helps establish a clear connection between the accident and your injuries.
How Delay Hurts Your Claim
Insurance companies look for any reason to reduce or deny claims, and a delay in treatment is a red flag for them. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance company may argue that the accident didn’t cause your injuries. In some jurisdictions, you only stand a chance of receiving coverage when you seek medical attention within 72 hours.
For example, if you delay seeking medical attention after a car crash, the insurance company might claim that your back pain resulted from something else, such as lifting objects at home. A delay in treatment also damages your credibility; opposing lawyers may argue that you’re exaggerating the severity of your injuries.
Statute of Limitations and Medical Evidence
Texas allows two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, to build a strong case, medical evidence is crucial. If you wait too long to seek medical treatment, it becomes harder for doctors to link your injuries to the accident. Immediate treatment helps create a solid medical record that strengthens your case.
Exceptions to Immediate Medical Attention
In some cases, delays might be unavoidable. For instance, if you were unconscious or unable to get to a hospital, those reasons might be acceptable in court. However, you must document these circumstances thoroughly and get medical help immediately. For example, if you were trapped at the accident scene and couldn’t access medical care immediately, your lawyer can use that information to explain the delay.
How Personal Injury Lawyers in Austin Can Help
If you’ve been in an accident and delayed medical treatment, all is not lost. Personal injury lawyers in Austin can help you navigate the complexities of your case, even if you didn’t seek immediate care. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the circumstances of your accident to gather evidence and strengthen your claim.
- Help you obtain medical documentation to prove the extent and causality of your injuries, even if there was a delay in treatment.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation despite any challenges posed by the delay in seeking medical attention.
- Advocate for you in court, if necessary, to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
In Austin, Texas, personal injury lawyers are well-versed in dealing with the specific challenges that can arise from delayed medical treatment, and they can help you recover the damages you’re entitled to.
