Minor Accidents Can Cause Major Injuries

Even low-speed accidents can cause significant injuries to the muscles, ligaments, discs, nerves, and even the brain. During a collision, your body is suddenly forced forward and backward in a matter of milliseconds. This rapid movement can result in whiplash, back injuries, concussions, headaches, dizziness, or other symptoms that may not appear until hours or even days later. Adrenaline often masks pain immediately after an accident, making many people believe they escaped injury when they have not.

Even if you feel fine, schedule an evaluation with a healthcare provider experienced in treating auto accident injuries as soon as possible. Early documentation of your injuries not only helps guide appropriate treatment but also establishes an accurate medical record of your condition following the collision. At the scene of the accident, you should document that the accident was greater than the sum value of the car damage:

1. Take pictures to document how the accident happened. In a low impact accident, the insurance company needs to see more than just the damage to the car. If you can, show how the impact may have affected your injury.
2. Take names and phone numbers if there were witnesses. These people can speak to what happened on the scene.
3. Be thorough in describing the accident to the police officer. Put your words into the legal record.
4. Seek medical attention for an auto accident specialist and understand that your pain may get worse over the coming days. Be descriptive of the accident so your doctor understands that you were harmed beyond what the photos might show.

Remember, don’t judge your injuries by the damage to your vehicle. Judge them by how your body responds over the days that follow. A prompt medical evaluation can help identify hidden injuries, begin treatment early, and give you the best opportunity for a full recovery.

Your focus should be on your recovery. Let the medical evidence tell the story of your injuries, rather than trying to explain them before a complete evaluation has been performed.

Call 405-943-0303 today.

If you’ve been in an auto accident, make your first call to The Brooks Clinic at (405) 943-0303.