Yes! You should go to the hospital after a motorcycle accident. If emergency medical services arrive at the scene and want to take you to the hospital, it is important to comply with them. If you walk away from your accident, see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.
Most importantly, going to the hospital after your motorcycle accident means a medical professional will evaluate your condition and determine if you are healthy. Seeking medical attention also creates a health record after your accident in case legal action is necessary.
When you are injured in a motorcycle crash, a Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you need to cover your damages. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case.
Why Should You Go to the Hospital if You Feel Fine?
After a motorcycle crash, adrenaline will be pumping through your system. Adrenaline is a hormone responsible for our fight-or-flight response. When adrenaline kicks in, you’ll be mentally sharper, your heart will deliver more blood to your muscles, and you’ll breathe deeper and faster.
Our ancient ancestors found adrenaline extremely helpful when fighting off—or running away from—giant bears and saber-toothed cats. For you, it means you might bounce off the pavement during a motorcycle accident and get up ready for more, even if you are hurt.
In other words, you can’t entirely trust your body’s feedback systems after a life-and-death event. There are times to tough things out, but this isn’t one of them. You should go to the hospital after a motorcycle accident even if you feel okay, just to be sure you are healthy.
Delayed Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident
Some injuries can have delayed symptoms after a motorcycle accident. You might mistake a serious injury for simple soreness, or you might not experience symptoms until days or weeks later.
Certain delayed injuries are extremely serious, which is why it is so important to go to the hospital after your motorcycle accident. Some delayed injuries we often see associated with motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal injuries
- Fractures
- Internal injuries
- Joint injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Psychological issues
Pay attention to your physical condition and mental state in the days and weeks following your accident. Make sure you attend all follow–up and specialist visits recommended by your doctor and comply with medical advice.
Symptoms of Delayed Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident
It’s important to watch for physical signs of injury in the days and weeks after your accident. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, see your doctor or go to the hospital immediately. Some of the symptoms to watch for include:
- Headaches, lightheadedness, and difficulty concentrating may be an indicator of traumatic brain injury.
- Pins and needles, numbness, or tingling in the legs, arms, or hands may indicate nerve damage.
- Swelling or pain in a joint may indicate a fracture, sprain, or strain.
- A tender or swollen abdomen can indicate injuries to your internal organs, such as the liver and kidneys.
- Vision issues such as blurring or double vision may indicate an eye injury or concussion.
- Trouble breathing or pain in the chest may be a sign of a broken rib or lung injury.
- Bruises or swelling that appear days after your motorcycle accident could indicate soft tissue injuries.
If you experience any of the above symptoms after your accident, do not ignore them. Seek medical attention.
What If You Can’t Afford to Go to the Hospital After a Motorcycle Accident?
Many accident victims know they should go to the hospital after a motorcycle accident but avoid doing so because of the cost. Understand that if you were in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to seek damages from the liable party.
Your medical records will play a role in determining the extent of your injuries and can serve as proof to insurance companies who may wish to deny your claim. Your attorney will use your economic damages, such as your medical costs, to calculate your maximum compensation.
Damages After a Motorcycle Accident
While every case is unique, some of the damages you may be able to recover include the expenses associated with the following:
- Ambulance transportation and emergency room care
- Hospital stays
- Doctor visits and specialists
- Medications needed as a result of your injury
- Operations and procedures
- Physical therapy
- Future medical expenses
You also may be able to recover property damages and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. An attorney who works with motorcycle accident cases can help you seek compensation for your accident and injuries.
Get Help After Your Motorcycle Accident
You should go to the hospital after a motorcycle accident even if you think you feel okay. Doing so not only allows a medical professional to evaluate your condition in case of an injury you are unaware of. It also helps preserve your legal case if necessary.
If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident, the next important step after getting medical care is speaking with an attorney. We will advise you if you can seek compensation for your damages and help you through your case.
At Winston Law, attorney Bradley Winston understands the challenges of motorcyclists because he is one himself. Check out his free ebooks, the Florida Motorcycle Accident Bible and Five Deadly Sins that Can Wreck Your Injury Claim, or call today to schedule a free consultation.
