Atlantic City Car Crash: Why Seeking Immediate Medical Help Is Crucial

A car accident can be a frightening and disorienting experience. In the immediate aftermath, your adrenaline is likely surging, potentially masking pain and injuries. Even if you feel “fine” after a car crash in Atlantic City, delaying medical attention can be a critical mistake, impacting both your health and any potential legal claims. In New Jersey, there were more than 61,000 car accidents that caused injury and 500+ fatal crashes annually, according to the most recent data.

The Danger of Delayed Symptoms

One of the most compelling reasons to seek immediate medical help after a car accident is that many injuries don’t present symptoms right away. Adrenaline, the body’s natural response to trauma, can mask pain and discomfort. This can lead you to believe you’ve escaped unscathed when, in reality, you may have underlying injuries that require prompt medical attention. Some common injuries with delayed symptoms include:

Whiplash: This neck injury, caused by the sudden jerking motion of a car accident, may not be immediately felt but can result in chronic pain and reduced mobility if untreated.
Concussions: Mild traumatic brain injuries often go unnoticed at first, especially if there is no direct head impact. Dizziness, headaches, or memory issues can appear later.
Internal Bleeding or Organ Damage: In serious cases, internal injuries may not present symptoms immediately but could become life-threatening if undetected.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle and ligament strains or tears might not become painful until the body begins to heal, typically after the initial shock has worn off.

Protecting Your Health: The Primary Reason

The most important reason to seek immediate medical care is to protect your health. Early evaluation ensures that injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly, reducing the risk of long-term complications. For example, untreated concussions can lead to lasting brain damage, and ignored internal bleeding can quickly become life-threatening. Even minor soreness may indicate a deeper problem that only medical testing can uncover. AtlantiCare has three Emergency Department locations at Atlantic City, Mainland Campus, or Hammonton that provide care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Documenting Your Injuries: Strengthening Your Legal Claim

Beyond the immediate health concerns, seeking medical attention is crucial for any personal injury claim you may file after an auto accident. Insurance companies often argue that if you didn’t see a doctor right away, you weren’t really injured. Delays in treatment give them an excuse to deny or undervalue your claim. A medical record created immediately after the crash serves as evidence linking your injuries directly to the accident.

In New Jersey, if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. However, your right to file a personal injury claim is limited by a crucial deadline. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Atlantic City

Here’s a checklist of essential steps to take:

Call 911: Report the accident to the authorities, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal actions. New Jersey law requires you to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $500.
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Go to the hospital immediately after accidents if you feel you require immediate medical attention.
Document the Scene: If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
Exchange Information: New Jersey law requires drivers to exchange contact and insurance information after an accident.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
Contact an Attorney: Consult with an Atlantic City car accident lawyer to understand your rights and options.

Navigating New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance System

New Jersey operates under a “no-fault” insurance system. This means that, regardless of who caused the accident, your own insurance policy (specifically, the Personal Injury Protection or PIP portion) is generally responsible for covering your medical expenses. However, there are important nuances to this system:

PIP Coverage: Your PIP coverage will pay for your medical bills, regardless of fault.
Filing a Lawsuit: In New Jersey, you can consult for free with an attorney.
Serious Injury Threshold: To sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, your injuries must meet a certain threshold of severity.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening conditions. Some of the most common injuries include:

Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden jerking motion of a car accident.
Concussions: Mild traumatic brain injuries that can cause headaches, dizziness, and memory problems.
Fractured Bones: Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, or liver.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord, which can lead to paralysis.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, such as sprains and strains.

The Role of an Atlantic City Car Accident Lawyer

An experienced Atlantic City car accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of a car accident claim. They can:

Investigate the Accident: Gather evidence to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Handle communications with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
File a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
Maximize Your Compensation: Pursue all available damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Don’t Delay: Seek Medical Help and Legal Advice Today

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Atlantic City, don’t make the mistake of delaying medical attention. Protect your health and your legal rights by seeking immediate medical help and consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer. Contact an Atlantic City car accident attorney who will stand up for you from day one. Insurance companies move fast, and not always in your favor.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.