How to Check Yourself for Injuries After a Motor Vehicle Accident

If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it’s important to take the time to assess any injuries you may have sustained. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s not uncommon for symptoms to appear later on. By checking yourself for injuries as soon as possible, you can identify any potential issues and seek medical attention if necessary. Here are some steps to follow when checking yourself for injuries after a motor vehicle accident:

Take a few deep breaths and try to calm down. It’s natural to feel anxious and overwhelmed after an accident, but try to stay as calm as possible. This will help you think more clearly and assess your injuries more accurately.

Look for any obvious injuries. Check for cuts, bruises, and swelling on your body. If you see any blood or feel pain, try to apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding.

Check for neck and back pain. Neck and back injuries are common after a motor vehicle accident, and they can range from minor strains to more serious injuries such as fractures. If you have neck or back pain, try to stay as still as possible and avoid moving your neck or back until you can be examined by a medical professional.

Check for head injuries. If you hit your head during the accident, you may have a concussion or other head injury. Symptoms of a concussion include headache, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Check for chest pain. If you have chest pain after the accident, it could be a sign of a more serious injury such as a broken rib or punctured lung. If you have chest pain, try to take slow, deep breaths and avoid taking any deep breaths until you can be examined by a medical professional.

Check for abdominal pain. Abdominal pain after a motor vehicle accident could be a sign of internal injuries. If you have abdominal pain, try to avoid moving around too much and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Check for any pain or discomfort in your limbs. If you have pain or discomfort in your arms, legs, or joints, it could be a sign of a fracture or other injury. If you have any of these symptoms, try to avoid moving the affected limb and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Check for any unusual symptoms. If you have any unusual symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s important to remember that even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s still a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions and internal injuries, may not have noticeable symptoms right away. By checking yourself for injuries and seeking medical attention if necessary, you can ensure that you receive the proper treatment and care.

Next, strongly consider meeting with an attorney to review your case. At Allegiance Law, a San Francisco car accident lawyer is on hand to discuss your potential legal options in these circumstances. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 415-404-6395.