If you have been involved in a car accident in North Carolina, you should first make sure everyone is safe and attempt to move the car out of the roadway to prevent any obstruction to traffic, if possible. Next, call the police and, if necessary, ask for an ambulance. Police will take a statement from you and any other drivers involved. A paramedic will be able to evaluate your injuries and let you know if you should go to the hospital. Have you been involved in a car accident in North Carolina? Contact the experienced North Carolina car accident attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, ‘the Heavy Hitters.’ Call (800) 529-0804 or contact us online today to receive your free, no-obligation case evaluation.
As experienced North Carolina car accident attorneys, we’ve spoken with many injured car accident victims who did not receive medical care after their accident or initially believed they did not sustain any severe injuries. However, it is pertinent that you receive a proper medical evaluation after being involved in a car accident. Otherwise, you may be causing further harm to yourself physically, as well as hurting the value of any potential injury case. A better understanding of receiving medical treatment after a car accident in North Carolina can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve and that you are on track to recover from your injuries and return to optimal health as efficiently as possible.
Car Accident Medical Care
When Should I Seek Medical Treatment?
Unless it was a minor accident, it is advised that you seek medical attention at the scene of the car accident. However, if you do not feel you need to be seen immediately by a paramedic or have an ambulance called, you should seek evaluation from a medical professional as soon as possible following an accident to ensure that you did not sustain any injuries. Injuries such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whiplash, and other soft tissue injuries may not present with symptoms right away, especially after the adrenaline rush associated with getting into a car crash.
Additionally, even if paramedics at the car accident scene said you were okay, you may still have underlying or undiagnosed injuries sustained that will appear later. Therefore, you should seek medical attention within 72 hours following the wreck. Otherwise, your health and personal injury claim may be put at stake. If visiting a doctor is delayed due to holidays, bad weather, or lack of transportation, be sure to note that with your attorney. However, insurance companies will take into account how long you decided to wait after the accident to seek medical attention, so be sure to try to receive medical treatment as soon as possible.
What Information Should I Provide?
When you visit the ER, urgent care, or your doctor, you should provide them with your personal information, health insurance information, the events of the accident, and any symptoms you have. However, it is important to understand that, in many cases, car insurance will not cover doctors’ expenses right away. Health insurance is often used initially when being seen by a medical professional, and you may be reimbursed later through a personal injury claim.
What Type of Doctors Should I See?
While every case is different and will vary depending on the type and severity of injuries, many car accident injury victims choose to be evaluated at an ER or urgent care following an accident. After this, it is generally recommended to follow up with your primary doctor and/or specialists, such as an orthopedist, physical therapist, chiropractor, and other specialists.
Car Accident Medical Treatment
After a car collision, you may need to wait weeks or months before receiving compensation from your car insurer for your medical bills. However, there are a few options to choose from when it comes to paying expenses related to car accident medical treatment.
Medpay Coverage
Although you should not be held responsible for medical expenses related to someone else’s negligence, Medpay coverage is used to cover medical costs until your case is resolved. Medpay insurance is extra coverage that is available to cover medical expenses for your or your passengers up to your coverage limit if caused by an accident.
Your Health Insurance
Personal health insurance coverage is a standard option for covering medical expenses after a car accident. You will be responsible for any deductibles, copays, and other costs, but your health insurance will cover any car accident-related treatments you are covered for. This applies to private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid. If health insurance covers your vehicle accident-related medical expenses and another driver is found liable for your damages, you will need to reimburse your health insurer after you receive your settlement. Your car accident attorney will be able to help assist you in ensuring that any liens are paid and that you do not face any negative repercussions.
Paying Out of Pocket
You may also opt to pay your medical expense out-of-pocket, which you might need to consider if you do not hold medical insurance or Medpay coverage. However, it may be possible to negotiate bills or make a payment plan on medical expenses until a settlement has been reached. It is essential to keep in contact with medical providers so that your accounts will not go to collections.
North Carolina Car Accident Attorney
When involved in a car accident, expenses from medical care, lost wages, a damaged vehicle, and more can become quite expensive quickly. While it often takes months for a settlement to be finalized, you may wonder if you will be adequately compensated. That is why it is vital to have an experienced North Carolina car accident attorney fight for your rights after a car accident to ensure you receive adequate compensation. We offer free, no-obligation case evaluations at Tatum & Atkinson, ‘the Heavy Hitters.’ During our initial conversation, we will discuss your accident and associated injuries and also answer any questions you may have. Call Tatum & Atkinson today at (800) 529-0804 or contact us online to see how we can help you.
