What Do Doctors Check After A Car Accident?

Doctors may decide to perform blood tests after a car accident for several reasons, depending on the circumstances of the car accident and your condition.

Blood tests can help detect signs of internal bleeding or organ damage. For example, liver function tests can indicate liver injury, and a complete blood count (CBC) can show changes in blood cells due to internal bleeding.

If there are open wounds or if surgery is needed, blood tests might be done to check for signs of infection.

Whether you need a CT scan, MRI, or X-ray after a car accident depends on the nature of your collision, injury symptoms, and the initial medical evaluation. These imaging tests are used to diagnose various types of injuries that can occur in a car accident. Here's how each of these tests is used and what they check for:

• X-ray: X-rays are typically the first imaging test used. They are quick and effective at diagnosing bone fractures and dislocations.
• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): CT scans are more detailed than X-rays and are particularly useful for diagnosing internal injuries. They can provide a clearer view of soft tissues, blood vessels, and internal organs.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is used for detailed imaging of soft tissues. It’s superior to X-rays and CT scans in evaluating soft tissue injuries, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, and the brain.

To ensure your immediate safety and health, doctors will perform a variety of procedures and tests after a car accident. Here is what they typically check: 

• Vital signs: A doctor will initially check your blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature to assess the body's basic functional state.
• Neurological examination: Assessing for signs of concussion or other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). This includes checking the patient’s consciousness level, pupil reaction, coordination, and memory.
• Physical examination: A comprehensive check for any visible injuries such as cuts, bruises, or deformities. The doctor will also palpate (touch) various areas to check for tenderness or pain, which can indicate internal injuries.
• Musculoskeletal assessment: Checking for signs of fractures, strains, sprains, or other injuries to bones, muscles, and joints.
• Head and neck evaluation: Assessing for signs of head trauma, whiplash, or cervical spine injuries, especially if the patient reports neck pain or stiffness.
• Abdominal examination: Palpating the abdomen to check for tenderness or rigidity, which can indicate internal bleeding or organ damage.
• Back and spinal assessment: Checking the spine for tenderness, deformities, or signs of nerve damage.
• Diagnostic tests: Depending on the initial examination, the doctor may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to get a clearer view of internal injuries.
• Observation of skin and extremities: Looking for any lacerations, bruising, swelling, or deformities in the arms and legs.
• Evaluation of chest and ribcage: Checking for signs of rib fractures or internal chest injuries, which can be serious if they affect the lungs or heart.
• Mental status and emotional assessment: Evaluating the patient for signs of shock, confusion, anxiety, or other emotional responses that can occur after a traumatic event.
• Review of medical history: Discussing any pre-existing conditions or medications that could affect treatment decisions.
• Discussion of symptoms: Asking about any symptoms the patient is experiencing, such as pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or abdominal discomfort.

Will a doctor check my medical history after a car accident?

After a car accident, it’s standard practice for a doctor to review your medical history. Knowing your medical history helps the doctor distinguish between injuries caused by the accident and pre-existing conditions.

A thorough understanding of your past medical issues allows the doctor to develop a treatment plan that considers any existing health conditions. Plus, a doctor will need to know about any medications you're currently taking. 

Medical records can also become vital when pursuing a car accident claim. A clear record of injuries related to your crash is important for any potential insurance claims or legal action.

Who pays for your medical bills depends on the type of crash you were involved in, your insurance, and the laws in your state. In most collisions caused by a negligent party, their insurance company would be obligated to pay for your medical expenses. 

However, that’s not always the case. No-fault states require you to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which pays for medical expenses and other damages, regardless of who’s at fault.  In some other states, PIP is an optional add on.

If you’re involved in a crash with an uninsured driver, you’ll need to also turn to your own insurance provider for compensation. Many states require uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which pays for damages for you and your passengers. It can also be used to recover damages if you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident with an unidentified driver.

Hiring a Law.com Premier Car Accident Lawyer gives you a significant advantage. They can thoroughly investigate your crash, ensure that you get the appropriate medical care, and negotiate with insurance companies for a maximum settlement. Most importantly, they will protect your rights every step of the way, so the insurance companies can’t take advantage of you. 

When you’re ready to start on your claim, contact a Premier Attorney in your area for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our verified lawyers won’t charge you any upfront fees for their services. That’s because they work on a contingency fee basis and will ensure that you can afford legal representation.