As a chiropractor and auto accident specialist, I often get asked the question, “Should I tell my doctor I was in a car accident?” The answer is always a resounding YES! It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider that you were in a car accident, even if you feel fine.
Car accidents can cause injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show symptoms until several hours or even days after the accident. Therefore, it is essential to let your doctor know that you were in an accident so that they can perform a thorough evaluation and determine whether you sustained any injuries.
Moreover, it’s important to understand that New Jersey is a no-fault state, meaning that medical bills are covered by your own insurance no matter who is at fault for the accident. This means that if you were injured in a car accident, your medical bills will be covered by your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who caused the accident.
Furthermore, some injuries may not be immediately apparent, as I mentioned earlier. In some cases, you may feel fine immediately after the accident but develop symptoms later on. If you did not tell your doctor that you were in an accident, they may not be able to connect your symptoms to the accident, and you may miss out on the medical care you need to recover fully.
Additionally, car accidents can be traumatic events that can affect your mental health as well. It’s essential to inform your doctor about the accident so that they can evaluate your mental health and provide the necessary treatment if needed.
In conclusion, it is crucial to tell your doctor that you were in a car accident, even if you feel fine since car accidents can cause injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Furthermore, car accidents can be traumatic events that can affect your mental health, and it’s important to let your doctor know so that they can provide the necessary treatment if needed. Remember, if you were in a car accident, seek medical attention and inform your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the medical care you need to recover fully.
