Even though soft tissue injuries might seem trivial, they can cause severe pain and even disability if not treated properly. If you’re suffering from a soft tissue injury caused by another person’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering, hospital bills, and any potentially lost wages.
What Is a Soft Tissue Injury?
After a car accident, you may be experiencing symptoms such as an overstretched muscle, a strain, or a sprain. These are known as soft tissue injuries and are common after car accidents. They often involve damage to your muscles or ligaments.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Usually, if a person is experiencing a soft tissue injury, they will most likely feel immediate pain or discomfort. However, when faced with a dangerous or stressful situation—like a car accident—people often experience an adrenaline rush, which covers up any potential pain they might have and makes them think they don’t need medical care.
Not experiencing pain after a car accident doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not injured. It’s always wise to have a medical professional check you out and confirm your wellbeing.
Depending on the extent of your pain, treatment for a soft tissue injury ranges from using the RICE method to physical therapy and medication. The sooner you begin treatment, the faster you recover and prevent future problems.
What Should Your Next Steps Be?
After you’ve been checked over by a medical professional, it’s important to know your next steps and the legal procedures involved with making a claim—especially if your injuries were caused by another driver.
1. Document Your Injury and Healing
Soft tissue injuries are not always easy to prove since they can cause less obvious pain or inconveniences to your life. Keeping a record of your injuries, doctor’s reports, any medical bills you might get, and your healing progress is an important step as it will help you avoid future problems with your insurance company or health care provider.
These documents will also be of great use to your lawyer and improve their chances of securing you a fair settlement.
2. Talk to a Lawyer
Many insurance providers will try to downplay the severity of your soft tissue injuries and try to avoid paying you the full amount.
That’s why your next step should be to consult with a reliable lawyer, especially one who is experienced with St. Louis’s traffic laws and can ensure that you are fairly compensated for your pain and suffering.
Rather than risk dealing with the repercussions of future soft tissue injuries, talk to Craig J. Concannon, P.C., make a claim, and get what you’re due. At our law firm, our compassionate and dependable lawyers will always have your back. Reach out to us at 314-421-3329 and schedule a consultation.