Should I Go to a Doctor After a Car Accident in Louisiana?

When you feel fine after a car accident, it’s natural to ask: Should I go to a doctor after a car accident in Louisiana? The answer is yes, not only for your health, but also to preserve your right to pursue full and fair compensation for your damages.

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Murphy Law Firm combines more than 30 years of experience with a hands-on approach. Attorney Peyton Murphy personally meets with every new client, and is in court every day, leading the firm in securing four record jury verdicts, including a landmark $18.9 million award.

Why You Need to See a Doctor

In 2024, Louisiana saw 37,388 injury crashes, with a total of 753 accident-related fatalities. That’s a huge decrease from 2022, when there were 42,400 injury crashes.

After a car accident, it’s common for adrenaline to mask pain and discomfort, which can make you underestimate the severity of your injuries. You might feel fine at first, even if you experience symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, or mild back pain. However, these seemingly minor issues can develop into more serious problems over time.

That’s why visiting a doctor as soon as possible is so important. A medical professional can properly assess and document your injuries to make sure you get the treatment you need before your condition worsens.

Beyond your health, having detailed medical records can also be important if you later need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action, as they clearly link your injuries to the accident.

Common Injuries From Car Accidents

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, and many of them aren’t immediately apparent. While some injuries, such as cuts or broken bones, are obvious right away, others can develop over hours, days, or even weeks following the accident. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash. It’s caused by sudden, forceful movement of the neck, and it often results in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
• Concussions and head injuries. Even a minor impact can lead to brain trauma, which causes headaches, dizziness, or memory problems.
• Back and spinal injuries. Accidents can compress or damage the spine, leading to long-term pain and mobility issues.
• Soft tissue injuries. Bruises, sprains, and strains might not seem serious, but they can affect your range of motion, which can impact your daily activities.
• Internal injuries. Internal bleeding or organ damage might not be immediately noticeable, but it can be life-threatening without treatment.

An experienced car accident attorney can help guide you through the claims process, make sure all your paperwork and medical records are in order, and advocate for the compensation you deserve

The Legal Importance of Medical Documentation

If you decide to pursue compensation, medical records play a critical role when it comes to proving liability and the extent of your damages. Without this medical evidence, insurers might argue that your injuries were pre-existing or unrelated to the accident, which can result in reduced compensation, or even a denial of your claim altogether. To be compelling, medical documentation should include:

• Date and time of the initial examination
• Description of injuries and symptoms
• Diagnostic tests and imaging results
• Treatment plan and follow-up recommendations
• Any restrictions or limitations caused by the injury

Medical records create clear, official evidence that ties your injuries directly to the accident, which helps protect your rights while increasing the likelihood of securing fair compensation.

Steps to Take After Seeing a Doctor

When it comes to protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation, what you do next can be just as important as getting medical treatment. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can help you strengthen your case by making sure your documentation is accurate. This includes:

1. Following all treatment recommendations. Adhere to any prescribed medication, therapy, or follow-up appointments, as this provides a documented treatment history.
2. Keeping detailed records by maintaining copies of medical records, bills, prescriptions, and any correspondence with your healthcare providers.
3. Documenting your symptoms by keeping a personal journal of any pain, discomfort, or limitations can help both your doctor and legal counsel understand the impact of your injuries.
4. Notifying your insurance company of your medical visit and providing them with supporting documentation.
5. Refraining from discussing the accident or your injuries on social media, as these statements can be used against you in a claim later on.

Following your doctor’s recommendations is important, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. By taking these steps, with the help of an experienced car accident lawyer, you not only protect your health but also safeguard your ability to pursue the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

What Should I Do if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, you might still have options for recovering compensation. Your own insurance policy could include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage that can help pay for medical bills, property damage, or lost wages. If you don’t have this coverage, an experienced attorney can pursue alternative routes, like filing a civil claim directly against the at-fault driver.

How Long Does It Usually Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim in Louisiana?

The time it takes to settle a car accident claim in Louisiana varies depending on how complicated the case is, the severity of your injuries, and how willing the insurance company is to negotiate. Minor claims could be resolved quickly, while more serious accidents involving multiple injuries or liability disputes can take much longer.

Can I Negotiate My Settlement Offer?

Yes, you can negotiate your settlement offer if it doesn’t fully cover your expenses and losses. Insurance companies often start with a lower offer, expecting negotiations. Having a lawyer review the offer can help you understand your rights and calculate fair compensation for your damages. They can also push for a higher settlement.

What Happens if the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?

If an insurance company denies your claim, you still have options. A lawyer can review the denial, identify weaknesses in their reasoning, and advise you on your next steps, including filing an appeal or pursuing a civil claim. Proper documentation of your injuries, medical records, and accident details strengthens your case to increase the likelihood of overturning the denial.

Protect Your Health and Rights

At Murphy Law Firm, we fight for our clients at every turn. From gathering and organizing medical records to negotiating with insurance companies, we advocate fiercely on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

About The Author

Peyton Murphy

Peyton Murphy, is the founder of Murphy Law Firm, LLC, based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, specializing in personal injury law. Peyton obtained his law degree from the prestigious Tulane School of Law in 1991 and has been licensed to practice law in Louisiana since 1993. With over 28 years of experience, Peyton is dedicated to representing injured victims and actively contributing to his community. Education: Obtained his law degree from Tulane School of Law in 1991. Professional Associations: Member of the Louisiana State Bar and active in the Baton Rouge Bar Association and the Louisiana Association for Justice. Experience: Founder of Murphy Law Firm, LLC, with extensive experience in personal injury law and licensed in multiple federal courts and the U.S. Supreme Court.

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