If you have been in a car accident, you’re probably shaken up and unsure what to do next. You might wonder, When is it too late to go to the doctor after a car accident?
This question can be stressful, especially if you are worried about missing work or dealing with car repairs. Knowing how long after an accident you can go to the doctor or the hospital is crucial. Your health and future legal rights may depend on it.
Cottrell Law Office can guide you if you’ve been in an accident in Missouri or Arkansas. We can help you understand what steps to take next to protect yourself and your rights. Call or contact us online to set up a consultation.
How Long After an Accident Should You See a Doctor?
After an accident, it’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible, ideally within 24 to 72 hours. Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, some symptoms may not appear until days later. This delay is common with injuries like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage.
Waiting too long can hurt your health and your case if you decide to seek compensation. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t serious if you wait for medical treatment. In Missouri and Arkansas, prompt medical attention can strengthen your claim if you need to file for damages later on.
When Is It Too Late to Go to the Doctor After a Car Accident?
While it’s best to see a doctor right away, you may still be able to get checked out days or even weeks after your accident. Closer to a month or longer may be too late. Generally, seeing a doctor within two weeks of the accident is considered reasonable. However, the sooner you go, the better. This protects your health and helps create a clear record of your injuries.
Signs You Should Go to the Hospital
If you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or other emergency symptoms, head to the hospital immediately. Don’t ignore these signs. Even minor aches could be a sign of something more serious. Car accidents can lead to severe injuries that may not be obvious right away.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, injury severity levels are classified from “fatal injury” to “no apparent injury,” with less obvious injuries falling between the two. These could include soft tissue injuries or internal damage that may not be obvious but could worsen over time.
If you’re unsure where to go, visit this resource explaining the differences between hospital emergency rooms and urgent care. You can still visit a hospital or urgent care center for non-emergency injuries if your regular doctor isn’t available. Hospitals can conduct imaging tests, like X-rays or MRIs, to check for internal injuries.
Most hospitals in Missouri and Arkansas accept walk-ins, so don’t hesitate if you think something is wrong. Delaying medical treatment can worsen your injuries and affect your ability to get compensation later.
Three Steps to Take After a Car Accident
If you’re feeling unsure about what to do after an accident, here’s a simple plan:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Whether you go to your doctor or a hospital, get checked out as soon as possible.
- Document everything. Keep records of your medical visits, treatments, and any expenses related to the accident.
- Contact an attorney. Contact Cottrell Law Office to understand your rights and the next steps. We can help you protect your interests and get the compensation you deserve.
By following these steps, you’ll be on the right path to recovery and protecting your rights.
Ready to Protect Your Health and Rights? Contact Cottrell Law Office Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late—don’t let confusion or stress stop you from getting the care you need after an accident. If you’ve been in an accident in Missouri or Arkansas, Cottrell Law Office is here to help. With decades of experience, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way. Our team is known for providing exceptional client service and delivering strong results when it matters most.
Call now or contact us online to get the guidance you need. Quickly acting can make a big difference in your recovery and case.
Wesley Cottrell
Wes Cottrell earned his B.A. from Pittsburg State University in 1981 and his J.D. from the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kansas in 1985. He was admitted to practice law in Kansas in 1986, in Missouri in 1987, in Arkansas in 1989, and Oklahoma in 1993. He is licensed to practice law in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas, eastern Arkansas, western Arkansas, and western Missouri. He was Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Crawford County, Kansas from 1987-1989.
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