After a minor car crash in Florida, you might feel fine and consider skipping the hospital. Even so, a crash that causes little vehicle damage can still cause injuries. Some symptoms may not appear right away. Knowing when to seek medical care can help you protect your health and well-being.
Watch for symptoms after a crash
Your body releases adrenaline during stressful events such as car crashes. This response can make it harder to notice pain or other symptoms right away. You might leave the crash feeling fine and develop pain or other problems hours or days later.
You may develop delayed symptoms such as headaches, neck pain, back pain, dizziness or numbness. Whiplash, soft tissue injuries and concussions may not cause immediate symptoms. Some internal injuries may also go unnoticed at first.
A medical evaluation can help identify injuries that may not be obvious after the crash. Early treatment may also help prevent some injuries from becoming worse and give you a clearer path to recovery.
Understand Florida’s medical care requirements
Florida uses a no-fault auto insurance system. Your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage generally pays 80% of covered medical expenses, subject to the policy’s limits and other requirements.
Florida generally requires you to receive initial medical services and care within 14 days of a motor vehicle crash for those services to qualify for PIP coverage. If you fail to meet this deadline, it could affect your ability to receive PIP benefits.
Medical records can also help document your injuries and when they began. A record of your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment may help establish a connection between your injuries and the crash. This information could become important if you later seek compensation beyond your available insurance coverage.
Know the deadline for a personal injury lawsuit
Florida generally gives you two years to file a negligence-based personal injury lawsuit. The deadline can depend on the type of claim and when the cause of action accrued, so different rules may apply in some situations.
Seeking medical care after a crash does not extend this filing deadline. However, getting treatment can create medical records that document your symptoms and care. Keeping those records may help you establish the nature and timing of your injuries if you later pursue a lawsuit.
Protecting your interests after a car accident
Your health should remain a priority after any car crash, even if the collision seems minor. If you develop pain, dizziness, numbness, headaches or other concerning symptoms, consider seeking medical care.
Getting checked can help identify injuries, support your recovery and create a record of your treatment. If you are unsure whether you need medical attention, consider speaking with a healthcare professional about your symptoms and next steps.