5 Questions to ask when seeking proper medical care after a Baltimore County Auto Accident
You know the importance of seeking proper medical care immediately after you are injured in a Baltimore County, MD auto accident, and that it is critical to follow up as necessary to return to health. However, there is more you can do to get the most out of your visits to the doctor, especially when you may have grounds to file a claim for compensation against the responsible driver. Your physicians and any other specialists will provide top level treatment, but there are some questions you should ask that may be useful in dealing with the responsible driver’s insurance company.
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How long will it take to fully recover?
A wide range of factors may contribute to your recovery time, and the initial consideration is the severity of your injuries. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other head injuries could take months or years. Trauma to your back and spinal cord could mean you never fully recover, and may leave you unable to walk. With such injuries as broken bones, bruises, and soft tissue injuries, your physician should be able to provide a relatively accurate range of recovery time.
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Should I take time off work?
Your doctor may suggest that you restrict your activities in general, which could mean you need to be off work if your regular tasks are somewhat strenuous. Even if your job does not require physical activity or you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk, your recovery time will be faster if you take it easy for a few days.
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What prescription or over-the-counter medications will I need for pain?
For severe and painful injuries, your physician may write a prescription for pain medication. In other cases, you may be able to control your pain and discomfort with over-the-counter remedies. Where appropriate, your doctor may also suggest ice packs, heating pads, and similar treatments to provide additional help with pain.
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Do I need to see a specialist?
Your primary practitioner likely has an extensive background in general medicine, but you may need to see a specialist to assist with more detailed injuries. For instance, it may be necessary to work with a neurologist if you have TBI or related head trauma. Other injuries may require you to work with a physical therapist to get back to your pre-accident health level.
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Should I limit my activities?
In addition to restrictions on work, you may need to limit other activities, including those you enjoy. You may experience diminished quality of life if you cannot ride your bike, go for walks, play sports, and have fun with your children. Plus, you may also be required to rely on others for daily tasks, routine chores, and personal needs.
There are additional questions that you may need to ask your doctor after a car crash, depending on the nature and severity of your injuries. The primary objective should be getting the information you need to recover, but a secondary goal for these inquiries is to support your claim for compensation. If you were in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal remedies, please contact Baltimore County, MD auto accidents attorney Michael A. Freedman to schedule a free consultation.
See Related Blog Posts:
Top Three Reasons to Seek Medical Care After a Baltimore County, MD Car Accident
What are My Benefits Under Maryland’s Workers’ Compensation System?
