Being involved in an accident is an overwhelming experience, even for those who are in a seemingly minor fender bender. However, if you notice the car accident injury you sustained in the collision worsening over time, it’s imperative to understand the steps you must take not only to ensure your health and well-being but also to protect yourself should you choose to pursue legal action against the negligent party. The following blog explores what you should do if your injury gets worse, how an accident can impact a pre-existing condition, and why working with a Broward County car accident lawyer is in your best interest during these complex matters.
How Should I Proceed if My Car Accident Injury Gets Worse in the Days After?
When you are involved in a car accident, one of the most important things you can do is immediately seek medical care. Even if you feel okay in the immediate aftermath, the adrenaline you’re likely experiencing can mask some of the pain, so allowing emergency medical technicians to examine you is critical.
In the days following your accident, you may notice symptoms appear. Some injuries, like whiplash or a concussion, can take hours to days to emerge, and you should contact your primary care physician as soon as you notice symptoms. They can help ensure you receive proper treatment while documenting the damages you’ve sustained.
If you fail to seek medical treatment following the accident because you feel okay, you may find that it can impact your ability to recover compensation from the negligent party. They may claim that you contributed to the worsening of your injury because you did not see a doctor after the accident. As such, allowing a medical professional to examine you is critical to establishing care, treating the injuries you’ve endured, and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
What Happens if a Car Accident Worsens a Pre-Exisiting Condition?
It’s imperative to understand that having a pre-existing condition does not impact your right to compensation. While you cannot recover compensation for any pain or damages endured by the injury prior to the accident, the party responsible for the collision can face liability for the worsened pain and damages caused by a worsening of the condition. For example, if you had a prior back injury that limited your ability to work but a car accident made the condition worse and you are now unable to work at all, you can fight for the lost wages. However, you can only fight for the income you would have earned in your already reduced working capacity.
You should also know that the insurance company will likely try to dispute your claims if you have a preexisting condition, claiming the accident did not cause pain but rather the injury you already had. As such, it’s imperative to ensure you see a doctor to ensure your medical records reflect the impact of the accident on your prior injuries. This can help in the fight for the compensation you deserve.
As you can see, these matters can be incredibly complicated and can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. It’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from the Finizo Law Group as soon as possible if this reflects the circumstances of your accident. We understand how devastating the injuries sustained in a car accident can be and the impact they can have on your life. That’s why we’re dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome for you during these matters. Reach out today to learn how we can fight for you.
