Because of its stunning views, serene coastline, and vibrant community, Myrtle Beach attracts bikers from across the state and the country. But like anywhere else, it’s also a place where accidents, especially motorcycle accidents, can occur.
Motorcycle wrecks can be sudden and traumatic. In the chaotic aftermath, it’s not uncommon for victims to skip immediate medical treatment. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain, making some believe they’re unharmed. Even if you didn’t receive immediate medical attention, you still have rights and should contact an experienced Myrtle Beach motorcycle accident lawyer for help.
What Happens if You Don’t Receive Medical Care Right Away?
Swift medical attention is crucial in the critical moments following a motorcycle accident. Neglecting timely care can lead to worsening injuries that leave lasting damage. It can also impact your ability to receive compensation for damages in the accident.
- Worsening injuries: Many injuries sustained in accidents worsen over time without proper medical attention. What might start as a seemingly minor injury could escalate into a more severe condition, possibly requiring more invasive treatment or surgery due to delayed intervention.
- Delayed diagnosis: Some injuries might not show immediate symptoms but can develop into serious complications if left untreated. For instance, a traumatic brain injury can take days to show symptoms and leave you with lasting cognitive impairments.
- Infection risk: Open wounds and road rash sustained in an accident can become breeding grounds for infections if not promptly cleaned, treated, and dressed. Delayed medical care increases the risk of infections that can lead to prolonged recovery periods and potentially result in more serious health issues.
- Legal complications: Delayed medical care can complicate insurance claims and legal proceedings related to the accident. Seeking medical care will establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Trying to “wait and see” or to “tough it out” strategy will backfire because the insurance company will point to those gaps in your medical to say you weren’t that injured or that your injuries weren’t related to the motorcycle accident.
Can You Still Receive a Settlement if You Don’t Seek Immediate Medical Care?
If you didn’t receive medical treatment immediately, it doesn’t automatically negate your right to compensation. A Myrtle Beach motorcycle accident lawyer from Joye Law Firm can investigate your accident and collect evidence to prove your claim.
This can include footage of the collision, medical records of the care you received weeks or months after the accident, and police reports.
- Dashcam footage: Dashcam footage from your motorcycle or other vehicles near the crash can clearly record the accident. If your motorcycle or another vehicle involved in the accident had a dashcam, this footage will show the impact, the extent of the damage, and the injuries sustained.
- Medical records: Even if you seek treatment days or weeks after the accident, certain injuries are telltale signs of a motorcycle crash. Road rash, for instance, is a common motorcycle injury. Your medical records can help correlate these injuries with the crash.
- Police reports: Always file a police report after an accident, even if you feel fine. The report will have details of the crash, which can be pivotal in establishing a link between the accident and your injuries.
Any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 must be reported to police in South Carolina within 15 days.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention ASAP
If you haven’t already, getting medical attention as soon as you notice discomfort, pain, or other symptoms is crucial. Not only is it vital for your health, but the sooner you get treated, the stronger the link you can establish between the accident and your injuries.
The longer you wait to take legal action, the higher the risk of losing crucial evidence. Dashcam footage can get deleted, witnesses may forget details, and physical evidence can deteriorate.
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years. This means you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long could mean forfeiting your right to compensation.
Find Legal Help in Myrtle Beach
Joye Law Firm can assist you with the claims process if you’ve had a motorcycle crash in Myrtle Beach. We understand the complexities of personal injury law and will work diligently to ensure your rights are protected, even if you didn’t get medical attention right away.
We represent clients in Myrtle Beach and the entire Pee Dee region, including Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg. We also have locations throughout South Carolina, so our team is available to help you and your loved, regardless of where in the state you are located.
Don’t let the consequences of delayed medical care define your future. Reach out to Joye Law Firm today and take the first step toward regaining your peace of mind and securing your legal rights.
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