You’ve Just Been in a Car Crash. Now What?

The dust from your driver’s-side air bag is just beginning to settle.  You are scared.  Nervous.  Your heart is racing.

You’ve just been in a terrifying collision.  All kinds of things are running through your head.

Take a deep breath.

The first thing you need to do is take care of yourself.

It is imperative that you seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY if you are experiencing any pain or stiffness.  Often times the adrenaline rushing through your body is effective at masking even the most significant injuries.  Let the medical professionals do their job.  Allow the EMTs to examine you and, if need be, transport you to a local hospital.

The need to seek medical care is important for 2 reasons.  First, the obvious.  If you have been injured in a wreck, immediate care is the best way to ensure a speedy recovery.  Secondly, failing to see a physician to help assess your injuries, is playing right into the insurance company’s hands.  The insurance industry has historically argued that if you are injured, you will see a doctor.  Conversely, they will contend, if you do not treat with a physician, you cannot possibly be hurt.

You see, the insurance industry doesn’t live in the real world.  The insurance industry doesn’t understand, nor do they want to hear, that you have a job that pays the bills.  They don’t want to hear that your employer would prefer you work rather than go to a doctor’s office.

So, the number one thing to do after you’ve been involved in a car crash is PROTECT YOURSELF.  Seek medical care immediately.

Pennsylvania personal injury lawyers address this and four other things you should do if you’re ever involved in a car accident.