If you are a car accident victim, it might be chaotic in the aftermath. Before you get caught up with the damage to your car and the accident report, a rear end accident lawyer like one at Barry P. Goldberg would advise you to stop and pay attention to your body. Although you walked away seemingly “unscathed,” you could be hurt and don’t realize it yet. What should you do?
1. Get Examined as Soon as Possible
Get checked by a doctor as soon as you can after your accident. Even if you don’t feel hurt, some symptoms of injury can be delayed by hours or even days. The doctor will diagnose any issues you have and can refer you to specialists if needed, including physical therapy (PT). The sooner you begin treatment, the less likely you will suffer chronic pain or other long-term problems.
2. Remember That Not All Injuries and Symptoms Are Visible
Rear end car accident injuries are not always easy to see. One of the most common ailments accident victims suffer from a rear-end collision is “whiplash.” Whiplash happens when the neck is extended forcefully in a front-to-back motion. If whiplash is not treated, it can lead to chronic headaches and severe neck and shoulder pain. Other internal symptoms of injury are numbness, lightheadedness, dizziness and formation of scar tissue.
3. Pay Attention to Pain
If you still experience pain after you’ve been cleared by a doctor, there might be an issue that was missed. Report your symptoms to the doctor and request another exam to double-check your condition. If you are referred to physical therapy (PT), tell the therapist where you are hurting. He or she can help you alleviate discomfort by keeping you active. PT exercises will keep oxygenated blood circulating around injury sites to aid healing.
4. Commit to Physical Therapy to Avoid Surgery and Prescription Pain Medication
Attending and adhering to a PT program will increase muscle, tendon and ligament strength. This strengthening will help to protect the body from re-injury. There are additional PT techniques and devices available to you, such as massage, ultrasound, and hot and cold packs for muscles. PT is a non-invasive and cost-effective treatment that may help you avoid surgery in the future. Also, why rely on pain medication if you can manage or eliminate pain with an alternative therapy?
If you have been injured in a rear end accident, scheduling a consultation with a lawyer in your area can boost your chances of obtaining compensation. They will fight for you so that you can recover compensation for any injuries you sustained from your car accident.