Most people are stunned immediately following an auto accident, and even minor collisions can make it difficult to think clearly. EMS may arrive and provide care after a significant crash, but what happens if you are in a minor accident? It’s common for drivers to avoid medical care in the case of fender benders or other situations that don’t seem critical. But there are good reasons to get urgent care after an accident, even if you think it’s unnecessary.
You May Feel Fine but Need Help
There’s typically a massive adrenaline rush after an accident, and it increases the body’s pain threshold. As a result, you may not feel anything, even though you are injured.
It’s possible to sustain head, upper neck, or spinal injuries, even in low-impact collisions, especially if you didn’t brace yourself for impact. Although you initially don’t feel them, you might have a concussion or herniated spinal disks.
One of the advantages of urgent care is that professionals can quickly identify serious issues. They treat cuts, bruises, and other injuries you might not be aware of.
There Could Be Hidden Injuries
It’s a common belief that stiffness and soreness are part of recovering from an accident, but they could mask severe underlying problems. Visiting AFC urgent care center immediately after the accident is wise.
One of the advantages of urgent care is that providers will look for hidden issues as well as those that are obvious. Per Forbes, injury symptoms can appear days after a collision.
E.R. vs. Urgent Care Center
If EMS arrive at your accident and identify medical issues, they will transport you to a hospital emergency center. However, after a minor accident, the choice of treatment is yours to make.
You can visit an emergency room or a local urgent care clinic. Each has its benefits.
If you suspect you may have organ damage, a serious fracture, or other severe problems, it’s best to go straight to a hospital. According to Texas A&M Vital Record, if police officers arrive at the accident scene, they are likely to tell you that.
A hospital E.R. is designed for triage; you could wait hours to be seen if more severe cases arrive. But hospitals are also well-equipped to diagnose any injuries you have. Their staff has the tools to treat and release you or recommend you be admitted if they find something serious.
Urgent care clinics are designed for efficiency, are well-staffed, and can quickly see you. While they do not have the vast resources of hospitals, many clinics have x-ray equipment, an on-site lab, and other diagnostic technology. As a result, they can diagnose and treat all but the most severe accident injuries.
Clinics cost less than hospitals, too. They are often more conveniently located than E.R.s and can provide follow-up care.
Ultimately, choosing an emergency care center is up to you, but it’s essential to have a doctor evaluate you for injuries as soon as possible.
Immediate Care and Future Compensation
Immediate urgent care after an accident can simplify any future claims you may have. You will obtain a medical report for use in your accident claim and have a reliable record detailing the severity of your injuries.
It’s wise to visit an urgent care provider after a minor accident. You could have hidden injuries even though you feel fine. You can visit a hospital, E.R., or urgent care clinic. Immediate care can ensure you do not have serious, hidden injuries, and it’s essential to have professional documentation of injuries to ensure you are fully compensated.
