As a patient and victim of a car accident, it is very important that you provide your doctor with answers that are as accurate as possible.
If you’ve been in a car accident that caused you injuries, you will likely need to see doctors and sometimes undergo extensive investigations. You will also likely file an insurance claim to get compensation from the at-fault party and you will need hard evidence, like medical reports, test results, information from the accident scene, and so on to support your claim. Your case will ideally be based on objective, empiric evidence that the insurance company cannot deny or misinterpret.
However, when it comes to our health problems, not everyone reacts the same to injury, starting from the pain threshold which can vary quite a lot from one person to another. Unfortunately, many people aren’t sure what information is relevant to their injury or forget to mention important details. This can lead to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment. This article will provide an overview of the information you should share with your doctor after a car accident.
When you are examined by a doctor, a big part of the consultation is an interview. The doctor will ask you specific questions, and your answers will be the base of the diagnosis and future referrals. It’s clear that, as a patient, you have the responsibility to provide answers that are as accurate as possible.
One of the main symptoms of car accident injuries is pain. In most cases, you will feel discomfort and pain. How should you describe your pain to the doctor to get an accurate evaluation? Here are some of the questions your doctor might ask in order to get an accurate picture of your pain.
Where Is Your Pain Located?
Sometimes, pain can be dispersed in an area larger than the injury itself. In other cases, the location of your pain might not coincide with the injury spot. If you suffer from pain, start writing down a journal where you describe how you feel and how your condition evolves. If your pain is constant, you most probably need immediate medical attention.
What Type of Pain Is It?
Pain can feel differently, depending on the place and type of injury. There are many words to describe your pain: dull, sharp, stabbing, burning, nauseating, crushing, etc. Even if you might not have the perfect words to describe your pain, try to do it as best as you can, providing details and using comparisons to make the doctor understand exactly how it feels.
Don’t hesitate to use more colloquial words to describe your pain, if they help you paint a clearer picture to the doctor.
What Makes the Pain Go Away? What Triggers It?
It’s wise to keep a journal of your symptoms as soon as possible after the accident. It’s the best way to see how your symptoms evolve, and what are the circumstances that trigger your symptoms. Take notice of what makes you feel better, write down all the medication you take, and how much of it, and let the doctor know how your treatment goes. This will help the doctor to better understand the extent of your injuries and how they may have been caused by the accident. For example, if you were in a rear-end collision, you may want to mention any neck pain or stiffness that you have experienced since the accident. If you were hit from the side, you might want to discuss any pain or tenderness in your ribs or abdomen. Don’t hold back – mention even the small details, such as migraines or lingering subtle pain.
Give a Clear and Concise Account of the Accident
You should generally describe to your doctor the force of the impact and how your body hit the car. For example, if you struck your head on the steering wheel, it’s important to let the doctor know.
Your doctor will also want to know if there was a sudden impact or if your injuries are the result of cumulative damage. Giving a clear picture of the accident will help the doctor better understand your injuries and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Previous Injuries or Health Conditions
Accident victims are often tempted to downplay their previous injuries or health problems, thinking that it’ll make their current injuries seem less serious. However, this is a huge mistake. Your doctor needs to have a complete understanding of your medical history in order to provide the best possible care. Additionally, failing to disclose pre-existing injuries can complicate any potential insurance claims.
Your doctor will also want to know whether you have tried any self-care measures such as over-the-counter medications or ice packs. Be honest and let the doctor know how the self-care measures you have tried have helped (or not helped) your symptoms.
Ultimately, being forthcoming with your doctor will help ensure that you receive the best possible care for your car accident injuries.
Finally, don’t hesitate to ask questions. If there’s something you’re unsure about or don’t understand, don’t be afraid to speak up. The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions about your care.
Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Speak with an experienced St. Louis auto accident attorney as soon as possible after a car accident. They can help take care of the legal aspect of your claim while you focus on your physical recovery.
Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free, and you don’t pay unless we get you money!
