There are several reasons why going to urgent care after a car accident is a smart idea. Car accident injuries can sometimes be unknown so it's important to get checked out after an accident to make sure that you are okay. It is also wise to see a doctor as soon as possible if you want to pursue a personal injury case, as this is the best way to ensure you have solid evidence.

Care

Emergency Room, Urgent Care, or Doctor's Office

In the case of limb or life-threatening injuries, EMTs will take you in an ambulance to the ER. If you do not appear to be injured or your injuries aren't severe, it is still a good idea to get to an urgent care center as soon as you can after your car accident. There are many injuries you may have that do not present themselves right away. Urgent care a good option because it has longer hours than a regular doctor's office, shorter wait times than the ER, and is better equipped to handle injuries than a primary care doctor's office. They will also be able to assist you with the legalities of an injury case in ways that a primary care doctor's office may not be able to. 

Injuries

Car accident injuries can vary greatly. Some may be obvious such as large cuts or broken bones, but many others don't present themselves directly following an accident and take time before becoming problematic. Injuries such as whiplash, concussions, strains, torn ligaments, spinal column injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and internal bleeding can all go undiagnosed but are crucial that they be treated to prevent further problems.

Diagnosis

At the urgent care center, you will be evaluated by a doctor. You will describe the accident, they will check your vitals, and give you an exam. X-rays, CT, or MRI scans may be needed if there is reason to believe there may be further damage that they cannot diagnose with the hands-on exam alone. 

Treatment

Treatment for car accident injuries can range from stitching up a wound, setting and casting a broken bone, or prescribing pain medication. If injuries are serious you will be referred to a specialist who can further treat your acute injury. You may also have follow-up appointments scheduled if necessary. 

Legalities

Many doctor's offices are not equipped to deal with billing car insurance companies, nor are they allowed to testify in court or deal with other legalities of car accidents. However, an urgent care doctor can do these things. From scans to billing receipts, an urgent care center will also provide you with all the necessary documentation for your personal injury case. 

Some doctors may even be able to help you through this process. Ask if the urgent care center if they have specialized car accident doctors. 

Emergency rooms are expensive and time-consuming, and a doctor's office will likely fall short of your needs after a car accident. Provided your injuries are not threatening your life or limb, urgent care is the best place to go to make sure you are cared for physically and protected financially after a car accident. Contact an urgent care car accident facility for more information.