If you live in the greater Los Angeles area, you know all about traffic. Vehicle accidents happen daily, and many rear-end collisions are often caused by simple driver inattention.
Many people walk away from minor rear-end crashes, but if you become a victim, it is important for you to see a doctor promptly for more than one reason.
Accident impact
The human body is not meant to absorb the violent impact of a vehicle crash. As a result, the body will release chemicals such as adrenalin that can hide pain and injury temporarily. In some cases, symptoms might not appear at the time of the crash. In fact, signs of an injury might not show up for days afterward.
Medical attention
The steps to take following a rear-end crash include exchanging insurance information with the other driver and informing your insurance carrier about the incident. Use your cell phone to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle. If you call the police to the crash site, they will document the crash with a report. Next, even if you feel OK, you should seek medical attention promptly in case you have any underlying injuries. The doctor will also write a report with the diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Insurance matters
Both the police report and the medical report should accompany the claim you file for insurance compensation. Keep in mind that insurance companies do all they can to protect their bottom line, so prepare to provide as much information about the rear-end collision as possible. You have the right to expect the maximum amount of compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages and more.
