In the chaotic aftermath of a car accident, seeking medical attention might not seem like your top priority, especially if you feel physically fine. However, the rush of adrenaline your body produces during traumatic events can mask pain and symptoms of serious injuries. Delaying medical care after a collision can lead to worsening health conditions, complicate your recovery, and potentially impact your ability to receive fair compensation for injuries that surface days or weeks later.
At Dominguez Law, we have witnessed countless cases where accident victims initially felt “fine,” only to develop debilitating symptoms days later. Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys understands the medical, legal, and financial challenges you face after a car accident in New Mexico. With our aggressive yet compassionate approach, we may help you navigate the complex aftermath of a collision while focusing on securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
The Hidden Dangers of Delayed Medical Care
Car accidents can cause injuries with symptoms not immediately apparent. Waiting to seek medical attention puts your health at risk and may complicate your potential personal injury claim.
Many serious injuries can have delayed symptoms, making immediate medical evaluation crucial after any collision. Some common injuries with delayed symptoms include:
- Traumatic brain injuries, which may initially present as a mild headache before developing into more serious cognitive issues
- Neck and spinal injuries, including whiplash, which can take 24-48 hours to manifest symptoms
- Internal bleeding that might not show external signs until reaching a critical point
- Soft tissue damage that causes increasing pain and mobility issues over time
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological impacts developing days or weeks after the incident
Even low-speed collisions can cause significant injuries. Medical professionals know what signs to look for and can detect injuries before they become more severe. Early diagnosis also leads to more effective treatment plans and potentially better health outcomes.
Legal Implications of Delaying Medical Care
Beyond the health risks, postponing medical treatment after a car accident in New Mexico may significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. Insurance companies often use delays in medical care as evidence to minimize claim payouts.
When you seek immediate medical attention, you create an official record linking your injuries to the accident. This documentation establishes a clear timeline and causal connection that proves crucial when filing your personal injury claim. Waiting days or weeks before visiting a doctor makes it easier for insurance adjusters to argue your injuries resulted from something other than the accident.
Insurance companies have financial incentives to pay as little as possible for claims. They may use any gap between your accident and medical treatment to dispute the seriousness of your injuries or deny your claim entirely. Additionally, New Mexico follows a comparative negligence system, which means your compensation may be reduced if you’re deemed partially responsible for the extent of your injuries—including by not seeking timely medical care.
Proper Medical Documentation Strengthens Your Claim
Comprehensive medical documentation serves as the foundation of a strong personal injury claim. When you receive medical care immediately after your accident, healthcare providers create detailed records of your condition.
These medical records provide objective evidence of your injuries, directly connecting them to the accident. Your doctors’ notes, diagnostic test results, treatment plans, and prognosis all contribute to establishing the full extent of your damages. Insurance companies and courts rely heavily on this documentation when determining appropriate compensation.
During your medical visits, be thorough when describing your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Mention all areas of pain or discomfort, even if they seem minor. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and attend all recommended follow-up appointments. These actions not only support your recovery but also strengthen your legal position by demonstrating you’re taking your health seriously.
Contact Dominguez Law for Help After Your Accident
After seeking medical attention, your next step should be consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Dominguez Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident takes on victims and their families. Our team brings decades of experience representing car accident victims throughout New Mexico, fighting for the full compensation our clients deserve.
We approach each case with a combination of compassion for our clients and aggressive advocacy against insurance companies. Our attorneys have secured millions in settlements and verdicts for injury victims, including those initially denied coverage. For personalized guidance through the complex process of your car accident claim, contact Dominguez Law at (505) 850-5854 or through our contact form.
