Three Reasons to See a Doctor Quickly After Sustaining a Head Injury in a Florida Vehicle Accident
The brain controls almost every function in the body, so any head injury should be taken seriously. However, many people whose injuries appear minor just take a pill for the headache and move on without even considering seeking medical attention. A trip to the doctor may be a short-term inconvenience, but there are many reasons why it can make a difference in your long-term physical and financial health.
Throughout the United States, traffic crashes are the second-leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), causing 17.3 percent of cases. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, traffic accidents resulted in the largest percentage (31 percent) of TBI-related fatalities. While the majority of head injuries do not reach this level of severity, any head injury merits a trip to the doctor for the following reasons:
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For your health — A bump on the head may cause little more than a slight headache. However, the brain can sustain more serious damage that can reveal itself over time — often too late to reverse it. With early diagnosis of TBI, doctors can often take measures to prevent further damage.
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To protect your rights to insurance coverage — Florida no-fault auto insurance covers your injuries regardless of fault — but only if you obtain emergency medical treatment quickly. Most policies allow claimants only 14 days to see a physician before they lose their rights to file claims.
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For evidence — The long-term costs of traumatic brain injury often extend beyond the coverage limits of your no-fault insurance policy. When another party is fully or partially at fault for the accident, your Florida catastrophic injury lawyer uses your medical bills and related records to prove the extent of your injuries. Your records also create a timeline that links your injuries to the incident.
Victims of traumatic brain injuries often face costly long-term or permanent disabilities that limit or eliminate their ability to earn a living. It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible when you sustain any injury to the head. Then get in touch with a Florida injury attorney with extensive experience helping TBI victims and their families pursue rightful compensation.