What to Do If You Were Hospitalized After a Car Crash

Being hospitalized after a car crash can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. But knowing the steps to take after a car accident can help protect your health, financial stability, and legal rights.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The first and most crucial step after a car crash is seeking immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine initially, injuries like internal bleeding or whiplash might not show symptoms right away. Visiting the emergency room ensures you receive prompt treatment and creates an official record of your injuries. This step is vital in preventing potential long-term health issues and ensuring a full recovery.

Document Your Injuries and Medical Care

Getting accurate documentation is essential when seeking compensation for your injuries. Make sure your medical records are thorough and complete. Additionally:

• Keep copies of all medical records, including test results and physician notes. These records provide evidence of the severity of your injuries and the cost of your medical care, which is essential when seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident.
• Record your symptoms and how your injuries affect your daily life.
• Save receipts and invoices for your medical care, including the cost of emergency room visits after a car accident.

These details will be critical for your personal injury claim; your attorney will need them to pursue justice.

Notify the Insurance Companies

After a car accident, it’s important to notify your insurance company about the crash as soon as possible. However, when speaking to insurance adjusters, do not make any statements without your attorney present.

Determine Who Pays for Medical Bills

Many accident victims wonder, “If I go to the hospital after a car accident, who pays?” The answer depends on the specifics of your case. Typically, your medical bills may be covered by:

• Your Auto Insurance: If you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay coverage, these policies can help cover initial medical expenses.
• The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: If another driver caused the crash, their liability insurance should cover your medical costs.
• Health Insurance: If neither auto insurance policy covers the full cost, your health insurance may step in. However, you could be responsible for copays or deductibles.

Navigating these payment options can be complex, especially when multiple insurance companies are involved. A personal injury lawyer can help ensure you’re not stuck with unpaid medical bills.

Understand the Costs of Hospitalization

The cost of being hospitalized after a car crash can be significant. Accident victims often face:

• Expensive emergency room visits
• Diagnostic tests like X-rays and MRIs
• Ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy or surgery
• Lost wages due to time away from work

These expenses can add up quickly, making pursuing compensation through a personal injury claim essential. A lawyer can evaluate your case today and help you recover damages to cover these costs.

Collect Evidence from the Accident Scene

While you’re hospitalized in a car accident, you may not be able to gather evidence from the crash site. If possible, your lawyer or a trusted friend or family member can:

• Take photographs of the vehicles, injuries, and skid marks or debris.
• Obtain contact information from witnesses.
• Secure a copy of the police report.

This evidence can strengthen your claim and prove liability.

Protect Your Legal Rights

After a car crash, acting quickly to protect your rights is essential. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can provide the guidance you need during this challenging time. Your attorney can:

• Handle communication with insurance companies.
• Investigate the accident to establish fault.
• Calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Negotiate a fair settlement or represent you in court if necessary.

Don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Portner Bond, PLLC at (409) 838-4444 today can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

Monitor Your Recovery

Being hospitalized after a car accident often involves a lengthy recovery process. Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best outcome. If your condition worsens, notify your healthcare provider immediately. Consistent medical care not only aids your recovery but also supports your personal injury claim by showing the long-term impact of your injuries.

Common Injuries Requiring Hospitalization

Car crashes can cause a range of injuries, some of which require immediate hospitalization. Common injuries include:

• Internal Bleeding: Often life-threatening, internal bleeding requires urgent treatment.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries may result in long-term cognitive impairments.
• Broken Bones: Fractures can require surgery and extended rehabilitation.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Torn ligaments or severe bruising can limit mobility and cause chronic pain.

If you experience any of these injuries, seeking prompt medical care is critical.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

To recover compensation for the financial and emotional toll of being hospitalized in a car crash, attorneys representing accident victims often file personal injury claims. The process typically involves:

• Proving Fault: Demonstrating that another driver’s negligence caused the accident.
• Gathering Evidence: Collect medical records, witness statements, and other documentation to support your claim.
• Negotiating With Insurance Companies: Your attorney will work to secure a fair settlement.
• Litigation: If a settlement can’t be reached, your case may proceed to court.

A personal injury lawyer like the ones at Portner Bond, PLLC can guide you through each step and advocate for your best interests.

How Portner Bond, PLLC Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a car crash can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from serious injuries. A personal injury lawyer provides valuable support by:

• Investigating the accident
• Gathering evidence to build a strong case
• Dealing with insurance companies on your behalf
• Ensuring that all medical bills and other expenses are accounted for in your claim

If you’ve been hospitalized after a car accident, you don’t have to face it alone. You can protect your health and rights by seeking medical attention, documenting your injuries, and working with a personal injury lawyer. If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, call Portner Bond, PLLC at (409) 838-4444 or contact us online for help. Our Beaumont car accident lawyers are here to fight for you to receive the compensation you deserve.