After a car accident, it is imperative that you seek medical attention as soon as possible for any of your injuries. But when you get to the doctor’s office, what should you walk away knowing about your condition and treatment plan? What questions should you be asking your medical provider before you leave?
Asking questions about your treatment plan, requesting resources on your recovery, and similar queries can be beneficial while you heal. Not only can asking the right questions help you heal, but they can also help you during legal matters. If you need help navigating your car accident legal claims, please speak with a car accident lawyer from Mott & Moffett today.
What Questions Should You Ask Your Doctor After a Car Accident?
Following a car accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. We recommend you ask your doctor specific questions so you leave feeling confident about the treatment and recovery processes in front of you.
1. What Injuries Do I Have?
Ask your doctor to go in-depth about the injuries and medical issues you have suffered after your car accident, and take notes if you feel this is necessary. This may include requesting details about how specific injuries happen, how they affect the body, and other information your provider feels is essential.
2. What Are My Treatment Options?
While some injuries can only be treated in one way, you may have multiple options in certain circumstances. Find the best one for your body and needs, including those encouraging faster or more effective healing.
3. Are There Any Other Potential Issues?
We recommend you ask whether there is any possibility of underlying issues, as this shows your doctor that you want to address any health problems as soon as possible. This may lead your provider to take a closer look, order more tests, connect you with other specialists and doctors, or put concerns to rest.
4. What Tests Should We Order?
Ask what tests can be ordered to rule out any other possible issues. Encourage your provider to explain how long results will take, what each test is trying to accomplish, how any samples are collected, or what procedures are used to draw conclusions.
5. Can I Have a Doctor’s Note for School and Work?
Especially if your doctor tells you you should not be working, going to school, or performing physical activities, request notes for everything. Don’t be afraid to ask for their recommendations about getting work done, accommodations you might need, or whether staying home is a good idea.
6. Do I Need to See Another Specialist or Doctor?
Ask your doctor if you need any referrals to specialists or if seeing another provider would be helpful. Getting a second or more specialized opinion can help narrow down exact medical problems, allowing you to utilize the most beneficial treatment plans available. We also suggest you ask if physical or occupational therapies might be necessary.
7. What Medications Do I Need?
See if your provider recommends you take any medications, including prescription or over-the-counter drugs. These can be essential to your recovery and minimizing bodily damage in the long term.
8. How Long Does Recovery Normally Take?
Get a general timeline of how long recovering from specific injuries will take. This can help your job or school understand your needs and accommodations.
9. Are There Potential Long-Term Issues?
Some injuries and health issues can result in permanent or long-term effects, including disfigurement or disability. We strongly encourage you to ask your doctor about the potential adverse effects of injuries or treatments you’ll be using.
10. Can I Have Copies of My Medical Records?
Requesting a copy of your medical records can help you understand the costs and details of treatment. These can also help your lawyer understand the extent of your medical needs and the worth of your case. We strongly encourage you to speak with your car accident lawyer for assistance, as they can collect other documentation on your behalf.
Speak With a Car Accident Lawyer From Mott & Moffett for Legal Help
After a car accident, you should not have to handle legal matters alone. Especially if you’re healing and trying to maintain your financial stability, tasks related to these proceedings should be left to the professionals. The car accident lawyers from Mott & Moffett can help you in several ways, speeding up the recovery and legal processes on your behalf.
To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, get answers to your questions, and gain access to helpful resources, please don’t hesitate to connect with our team. You can reach us when you call (888) 596-6582 or complete the contact form on our website.
