After a car crash, your priority should always be your health, even if you think you feel fine. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, can take hours or days to show symptoms. That’s why it’s essential to see the right kind of doctor as soon as possible after a South Carolina car accident.
Getting prompt medical care protects not just your health but also your ability to file an insurance or personal injury claim later.
Which Doctor May You Need to See After a Car Accident?
The type of doctor you should see depends on how badly you’re hurt and what kind of injuries you may have. In most cases, you’ll start with one of three options:
- Emergency room physician for life-threatening or severe symptoms.
- Urgent care doctor for moderate injuries that can’t wait for a regular appointment.
- Primary care physician for ongoing pain or general evaluation after the crash.
If the initial doctor believes you need specialized treatment, they may refer you to a specialist, such as an orthopedist, neurologist, or physical therapist. The key is to get examined as soon as possible after the accident, ideally within 24 hours.
When to Visit the Emergency Room After a Crash
Certain symptoms should never be ignored. Visit an ER immediately if you experience:
- Loss of consciousness or confusion.
- Severe neck, back, or abdominal pain.
- Heavy bleeding or visible bone deformity.
- Difficulty breathing, dizziness, or chest pain.
- Vision changes or vomiting after a head injury.
Emergency departments in South Carolina are equipped to perform X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to identify internal injuries or fractures. Hospitals like Prisma Health or MUSC Health can stabilize you and refer you to trauma or orthopedic specialists.
Urgent Care Centers vs. Emergency Rooms for Car Accident Injuries
Not every crash injury needs the ER. Urgent care centers are ideal for non-life-threatening issues such as:
- Whiplash.
- Sprains and strains.
- Minor cuts or bruises.
- Mild headaches or soreness.
These centers can provide immediate care, diagnostic imaging, and referrals for follow-up treatment. Urgent care centers are typically open on evenings and weekends, offering faster service than most ERs for non-critical injuries. However, if you’re unsure how serious your injuries are, it’s always safer to choose the emergency room.
Specialists for Serious or Hidden Car Accident Injuries
Some injuries require expert evaluation. Common specialists after a car crash include:
- Orthopedic surgeons for fractures and joint injuries.
- Neurologists for head, neck, or spinal cord trauma.
- Pain management doctors for chronic pain conditions.
- Physical therapists for rehabilitation and strengthening.
These specialists can provide long-term treatment plans, diagnostic imaging, and expert opinions that help prove the full extent of your injuries. In severe cases, their reports are often used in personal injury claims to calculate damages.
Why Seeking Medical Care Immediately Is Important
Seeing a doctor right away is critical for two reasons:
Your health
Internal injuries, concussions, and soft tissue damage can worsen without treatment. Early intervention improves recovery outcomes.
Your legal claim
Medical records are essential evidence in any personal injury case. They establish the connection between the crash and your injuries, making it easier to secure compensation for your losses.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 2.44 million people were injured in traffic crashes nationwide in 2023. Many of these injuries could have been more manageable with prompt medical care.
What Happens If You Don’t See a Doctor After a Car Accident
Failing to seek medical treatment can have serious consequences. Beyond the risk of untreated injuries, it can also damage your insurance or legal claim. Insurers may deny coverage or reduce payouts if they believe you weren’t truly hurt.
Without timely documentation, it becomes difficult for a lawyer to prove that your injuries resulted from the crash. Even minor pain can signal something more serious, so always err on the side of caution and get checked.
How Medical Records Impact Your Insurance or Injury Claim
Every medical visit creates valuable documentation that supports your case. These records show:
- The extent and nature of your injuries.
- The timeline of your symptoms and treatments.
- The cost of your medical care.
Under South Carolina’s at-fault insurance system, this evidence helps establish the driver’s liability and the damages you’re entitled to recover. Your lawyer can use these records to negotiate with insurance companies or present them in court if needed.
Contact Our South Carolina Car Accident Lawyers Today for Help With Your Case
If you’ve been injured in a car crash, don’t wait to get the medical care and legal help you need. Seeing the right doctor early can protect your health and strengthen your compensation case.
The South Carolina auto accident lawyers at Stewart Law Offices are here to help you recover physically and financially after your accident. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation.
