Getting Medical Care After a Car Crash During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Here is what you should know about getting medical care following a car crash during the coronavirus pandemic.

2020 has been a difficult year for everybody. The COVID-19 pandemic makes many aspects of life more complicated. Being in a car crash and in need of medical attention is stressful enough, but when hospitals and medical centers work in extraordinary circumstances, your increasing worries are completely justified. 

Here is what you should know about getting medical care following a car crash during the coronavirus pandemic.

Serious Injuries Are Still Treated in the ER

The entire medical system is under strain because of the pandemic, and many patients with non-life-threatening injuries are forced to postpone their doctor visits. However, if you suffer from serious injuries or the types of injuries that should be treated immediately, don’t hesitate to go to the ER: 

Here are the injuries that should be addressed immediately: 

• Head or face trauma
• Lacerations that need stitches or sutures
• Bleeding
• Bone fractures
• Internal injuries (which can be signaled by bruising on your torso or abdomen;)
• Constant pain

If your health deteriorates very quickly and you suspect a hidden injury, it’s best to eliminate any suspicion by making a trip to an emergency room. You can check which units are designated for non-COVID patients in your area, or make a call to the nearest one and ask for instructions. 

Use Telemedicine for Non-Urgent Medical Care

Many doctors are offering remote consultations when their specialization allows it. It’s recommended to seek this type of medical care if face-to-face consultations are not available. Get a medical report for your online consultation to attach it to your insurance claim.

Seek Available Non-Critical Medical Care

If your injuries need an in-person consultation, or if your remote consultation needs further investigation, seek the providers who can receive patients for physical consultations. Make sure that they have implemented the proper safety measures to manage the risks of coronavirus contamination and be prepared for the visit with the proper equipment (mask, gloves, if needed). 

Don’t Skip or Postpone Your Doctor Visit

We are aware that it can be difficult to get a doctor’s appointment during these unprecedented times, but skipping or being late for your doctor visit can harm your car accident claim. Insurance companies will not hesitate to say that your injuries are not serious enough, since you didn’t seek medical attention right away. 

Speak With a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer ASAP

Since your car accident claim will most likely be made more difficult by the pandemic context, it’s wise to speak with an experienced St. Louis auto accident lawyer. They will be able to advise you about the doctors you can see, the type of evidence you should collect from your medical visits, and your payment options. 

It is very important to take all the precautions necessary and get the care you need after your car accident.