Do I Need to Go to the Hospital After a Minor Car Accident?
After a minor car accident, it’s easy to brush things off. Maybe you feel a little shaken, but otherwise, “okay,” and the idea of sitting in an emergency room feels unnecessary. But here’s the truth: even after what seems like a low-speed crash, you should strongly consider going to the hospital or seeing a doctor. That one decision could protect your health and your legal rights.
At HGSK Injury Lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand how injuries that seem minor at first can evolve into something far more serious. If you were involved in a car accident in or around Reading, PA, or even one that didn’t total your car, we’re here to guide you through the aftermath and help you make informed decisions about your recovery.
Why It’s Smart to Get Checked Out After a Minor Accident
Car accidents, no matter how small, unleash a surge of adrenaline that can mask pain and symptoms. It’s not uncommon to walk away from a crash feeling “fine” only to wake up hours or days later with stiffness, headaches, or serious discomfort.
Some common injuries that may not show symptoms immediately include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions or mild traumatic brain injuries
- Back or spinal injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Soft tissue damage
These injuries can worsen over time if left untreated, and delaying care may result in more extended recovery periods or permanent complications.
What If I Didn’t Go to the ER Right Away?
If you didn’t go to the hospital immediately after the accident, it’s not too late. You should still visit your primary care provider, an urgent care clinic, or a hospital as soon as possible. The sooner you’re evaluated, the better for both your health and any potential insurance claim.
Medical documentation is key in car accident cases. If you wait too long to seek care, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the crash. Getting treatment right away builds a record that can support your case later on.
Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations Still Applies
If you’re injured in a car accident in Reading or anywhere in Pennsylvania, the law gives you two years to file a personal injury claim. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, begins on the date of the crash. Waiting too long to get medical care or to speak with a Reading car accident attorney could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
At HGSK Injury Lawyers, our Reading car accident lawyers can help you understand how this deadline affects your case and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
What If the Accident Was Clearly Minor?
Even if the crash was low impact, you deserve peace of mind. Here’s why going to the hospital still makes sense:
- You may have hidden injuries that only a medical professional can detect.
- Documentation protects your rights if you decide to file a claim.
- It shows the insurance company you’re taking your health seriously.
- You protect yourself from long-term complications that could have been prevented with early treatment.
We know you might not want to “make a big deal” out of a small accident, but trust our Reading car accident attorneys, your well-being is worth it.
Reach Out to Our Seasoned Reading Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been in a car accident, minor or not, you deserve answers. Don’t leave your health or financial future to chance. At HGSK Injury Lawyers, our seasoned Reading car accident lawyers serve clients throughout Reading and surrounding areas, guiding them through the insurance maze and fighting for the compensation they need.
Injured in a car accident? We will guide you through getting your life back.
Call 267-551-8782 or contact us online to speak with a trusted Reading car accident lawyer today. We offer free consultations and are ready to help you take the next step.