Should you go to the emergency room (ER) after a car accident in Florida? The decision about whether or not to seek emergency care following a collision generally comes down to the severity of your injuries.
If you experienced a severe injury due to the effects of a wreck, it’s a good idea to call an ambulance or have someone drive you to an ER. However, in some cases, you may be able to visit an urgent care facility or even your family doctor.
Once you seek medical care in Florida, you can get additional help from a car accident lawyer. Find out how to get damages to cover your healthcare expenses with our team at Fasig | Brooks. Just call or complete our online contact form to get started.
When Should You Go to the ER After an Accident?
Many people experience disorientation after a car accident in Florida. You may feel unsure of what steps to take after a collision, even wondering if you need immediate medical care. If you sustained any injury, lawyers recommend seeking healthcare services.
However, you may not always need to go to the ER for medical treatment. The professionals recommend an ER visit if you experience a life-threatening or severe injury. Examples of serious injuries can include:
- Broken bones
- Severe burns
- Breathing difficulties
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Any form of severe trauma
You might want to visit the ER if you experienced any form of head trauma during the accident. Brain injuries are not always immediately apparent, but they can significantly affect your health if you do not receive fast treatment.
Can You Go to Urgent Care Instead of the ER After a Car Accident?
Should you go to the ER after a car accident, or can you visit a different kind of medical facility, like urgent care? Sometimes, going to an urgent care facility for treatment can be more effective than visiting an ER.
Urgent care facilities provide medical treatment for less severe injuries associated with a car accident. For example, medical professionals at an urgent care may help with a sprain, minor cut, or even whiplash.
Remember that you are not alone if you sustain an injury in a car accident. According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, over 252,000 people got injured in 2021 alone. Many of these individuals sought medical care.
How Long After a Car Accident Can You Go to the Hospital in Florida?
You can head to a hospital immediately after a collision in Florida. An ambulance may even take you directly from the accident scene to the ER for treatment if you have serious injuries.
However, some people do not realize they got injured in the immediate aftermath of a collision. Adrenaline and the confusion of the accident may prevent you from noticing an injury. In this situation, seek medical treatment as soon as you notice an injury.
Getting treatment helps to establish that the accident caused your injuries. In addition, insurance companies and lawyers often look at the dates on medical records when determining whether an individual qualifies for compensation in Florida.
How Long do You Have to Wait for Treatment at an ER?
Many people wonder how long they’ll have to wait when considering if they should go to the ER after a car accident. Unfortunately, the wait time at the ER can vary based on the number of patients they’re treating and the relative severity of your injuries.
Generally, ERs prioritize the treatment of patients with more severe injuries. Therefore, it’s difficult to estimate the wait time for your care.
You may also expect a wait when you visit an urgent care facility. However, many urgent cares provide faster service than the ER. While you may be seen quicker, urgent care may not offer as many medical services as the ER.
How Much does It Cost to Go to the ER After a Car Accident?
Many people worry about the cost of medical care if they go to the ER. Unfortunately, Healthcare treatments can become incredibly expensive in Florida, especially if you go directly to the emergency room.
However, you may receive funds to cover your ER expenses and the rest of your medical care after a collision. Florida’s car insurance laws require drivers to carry policies that can address their losses.
In fact, you may receive funds directly from your insurance company in some cases to cover your medical bills. Do not hesitate to seek medical care due to worries about cost, as delaying can make it harder for a lawyer to show the accident led to your injuries.
What Happens if Insurance doesn’t Cover an ER Visit in Florida?
Should you go to the ER after a car accident if you don’t think insurance will cover the expense? If you sustained a severe injury, get treatment immediately, even if you worry about your insurance coverage.
Drivers who sustain serious injuries – including injuries that result in the loss of a limb or permanent damage – may qualify to file a lawsuit against the individual who caused their accident.
You can work with a lawyer to discuss all options to secure funds to cover your ER expenses following a car wreck in Florida.
Speak to Us After Going to the ER for Car Accident Injuries
You can contact a law firm in Florida if you’re wondering if you should go to the ER after a car accident. A lawyer can advise you and help you review options to secure compensation so you can Come Back Stronger.
Our team at Fasig | Brooks stands ready to help with all your needs. Learn more by calling us or completing our online contact form.
