How Soon After a Car Crash Should I Go to the Doctor?

WHEN SHOULD I GO TO THE DOCTOR AFTER MY CAR ACCIDENT?

Patients who have been involved in a car accident often experience a whirlwind of emotions — let alone feeling overwhelmed about the aftermath of the crash. Between calling insurance companies and following up on police reports, it can be easy for those involved in a crash to forget about getting the medical care they need.

However, receiving medical care after you’ve been involved in a car crash is vital in preventing long-term injuries and getting on the road to recovery as soon as possible.

TIMELINE FOR CAR ACCIDENT AFTERCARE

You may receive medical care at the scene of your accident, but this doesn’t mean that you won’t require additional care days after. Even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured, you should still seek out medical attention following a crash.

After an accident in the State of Tennessee, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage requires that the insured be seen within 14 days from the date of the accident for initial treatment. Remember, the date of accident counts as day one of your 14-day window. However, we recommend seeking medical attention within 72 hours of your accident to decrease the risks of developing more serious conditions or irreparable disability.

WHAT CARE SHOULD I RECEIVE?

Being involved in a car accident can cause a multitude of injuries — including many that involve your spine, neck, and other major joints and muscle groups. Immediately following an accident, we recommend seeking additional treatment from either an orthopedic specialist or a chiropractor.

CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT

Most of the injuries that occur following a car crash happen to your neck and back. A chiropractor specializing in car accident injuries will carefully assess your situation and can help treat a range of conditions — from whiplash to rotator cuff injuries, strains, and separating discs.

ORTHOPEDIC TREATMENT

Orthopedic doctors treat injuries of the bones, joints, or nerves. Your orthopedist will help treat the immediate results of your crash such as fractures, breaks, and tears. They’ll also help prevent degenerative diseases that cause tissues and organs to worsen over time and can lead to chronic pain or the need for treatment options such as surgeries.

CAR ACCIDENT AFTERCARE IN TENNESSEE

Remember: receiving the care you need after a car crash is vital. At Paragon Medical Group, we have the professionals, resources, and therapies necessary to evaluate and treat injuries that arise after a crash. We can help you manage your chronic pain.

Book an appointment today by calling us at (901) 899-8888 or by contacting us online.