November 2, 2024 | Personal Injury
Were you injured in an accident in Oklahoma City or elsewhere in Oklahoma? If so, it is imperative that you see a doctor as soon as possible. There are both health reasons and legal reasons to do so. Without medical records, it is very difficult to bring a successful personal injury claim. Here, our Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer explains why it is so important to seek professional medical attention after an accident.
The Two Big Reasons Why You Need to See a Doctor After an Accident in Oklahoma
- You Need to Get the Proper Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care (Health Reasons)
Your health, safety, and long-term well-being take the top priority after a serious accident. All injuries should be checked out. As soon as possible after an accident, you should see a doctor to ensure you receive a thorough evaluation to identify any injuries. Some relatively common injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Your doctor can conduct a full evaluation—potentially performing tests like X-rays or MRIs—to properly diagnose your condition. Why does that matter so much? Prompt diagnosis leads to timely treatment. It can help to prevent minor/moderate injuries from developing into serious complications. A doctor can create a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Receiving proper care reduces the risk of long-term health issues. The reality is that serious health issues can arise from untreated or inadequately treated injuries. For this reason, regular follow-ups are crucial. These appointments allow doctors to monitor your recovery progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary to ensure the best possible outcome.
- You Need to Prove the Existence and Severity of Your Injuries (Legal Reason)
There are also legal reasons to see a doctor after an accident. Visiting a doctor immediately provides documented evidence of your injuries. Documentation—specifically medical records—helps to form the foundation of your personal injury claim. They are proof of the direct impact of the accident on your health.
Indeed, detailed and timely medical documentation can effectively link your injuries to the accident. Insurance companies and—if a case goes to trial—courts rely on medical records to determine the existence and severity of the victim’s injuries. Your financial compensation from a personal injury claim is based, in large part, on your medical records.
What Happens if You Do Not Have Medical Records in a Personal Injury Claim?
Without supporting medical records, it is difficult to bring a successful personal injury claim in Oklahoma. If you do not have medical records in a personal injury claim, it becomes challenging to prove the extent (and origin) of your injuries. Insurance companies look for any reason they can find to deny (or undervalue) a claim. The lack of medical records is a reason that they will take advantage of if they can get away with it. No medical records often mean no compensation for very little compensation.
Did Not See a Doctor for Your Injuries? Get Medical Care Now
Do not delay any longer. If you have not seen a doctor for your injuries yet, it is crucial to seek medical care immediately. Getting examined by a healthcare professional not only supports your health but also strengthens your legal position if you decide to pursue a claim.
Note: If you are not sure how to find the right doctor for your specific situation, an Oklahoma City personal injury attorney can help you understand your options—and what you need to do from a legal perspective—during a free consultation.
Why Trust Our Oklahoma City Personal Injury Attorneys
Personal injury claims are complicated. Do not try to take on the big insurance company alone. No matter the situation that you find yourself in—even if you waited to see a doctor for longer than would be advisable—attorneys Kent McGuire and Linda McGuire are standing by, ready to fight for your rights and your interests. Along with other things, we will help you gather all of the documents, records, and supporting information that you need to pursue full and fair financial compensation. You may be able to recover for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Your initial consultation is always free and fully confidential.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Personal Injury Lawyer for a Free Case Review
At McGuire Law Firm, our Oklahoma City personal injury attorneys are always ready to go the extra mile to fight for justice. If you were hurt in an accident, we are more than happy to help. Give us a phone call now or contact us online for a free, no-obligation initial consultation. With a law office in Oklahoma City, we handle personal injury claims throughout the wider region.