You have heard countless horror stories about trucking accidents and the catastrophic and life-threatening injuries that befall many victims. But here you are after surviving a similar accident with an 18-wheeler, and you can’t help but think to yourself, “I feel fine.”
Sure, your heart is racing. You’re also an emotional wreck—who wouldn’t be after such a close call?
Yet you don’t seem to have any broken bones, lacerations, or bumps and bruises … not even a little neck pain from possible whiplash.
Everyone around you, including first responders and witnesses, suggests that you go to the hospital anyway. But do you really have to if you feel fine? The quick answer is yes. Even if you feel OK immediately after a trucking accident, getting checked out by a medical professional is one of the most important things you can do.
Why You Should Always Seek Medical Attention After a Trucking Accident
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Some injuries don’t show up right away
Just because you aren’t in any pain or showing obvious signs of injury immediately after the accident doesn’t mean you aren’t hurt. This is because your body is likely still benefitting from a rush of adrenaline and endorphins. While this feels great at the time, it can give you a false sense of security that you are fine when you actually aren’t. The next thing you know, a few hours or days pass, and the real pain and symptoms start to creep in.
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Not all injuries can be physically seen
Common crash-related injuries such as lacerations and broken bones are easy to spot. Concussions, internal bleeding, soft tissue damage, and even whiplash may not be apparent at first. What’s worse is that if these injuries are allowed to linger unchecked for even a few hours, they could worsen and lead to complications and more lasting effects.
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It’s never good to try and diagnose yourself
To piggyback on the previous reason, what you might consider a minor bump on the head could be a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the eyes of a medical professional. An upset stomach could signal internal bleeding or organ damage. Even mild back or neck stiffness could be a serious spine or nerve issue.
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Going to the hospital creates a medical paper trail and strengthens your case
You may think you are fine, and perhaps you really are. But a simple trip to the emergency room and prompt medical evaluation at least creates a medical record linking your potential injuries to the accident. Without it, you may struggle to prove the extent of your injuries, justify future medical expenses, or strengthen your legal case.
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Peace of mind
Even if you truly believe you are fine, there is peace of mind in knowing you confirmed with a medical professional.
Call Keys Law Offices Today!!
Large truck accidents can occur for various reasons, including fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, inadequate training, and drug and alcohol use. Sometimes, the trucking company can be liable for an accident if it fails to properly maintain or inspect the truck or violates federal or state regulations. At Keys Law Offices, we are dedicated to representing victims of truck accidents and their families, including those involving semi-trucks.
We understand the complex legal and regulatory issues involved in truck accident cases and know how to investigate and litigate these cases to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Our staff is always available. Call us today!