Can Auto Accident Victims Refuse Medical Treatment?

Each year, hundreds of individuals in Utah get hurt in auto accidents. Sometimes, the victims don’t believe it is necessary to seek medical treatment for a variety of reasons. This brings about a serious question. Can auto accident victims refuse medical treatment?

The answer, quite simply, is yes. Legally, if someone denies treatment, his or her decision must be respected. However, all car accidents should be treated seriously. No matter how minor the damage and injuries are, every victim in Utah should call the police and file an injury claim. 

Car insurance companies rely on police reports to determine the facts in an accident. Plus, if you decide to file a personal injury claim, an attorney needs all the legal documentation to support the case. Even if an injured party doesn’t feel the pain for hours – or days – after the accident, he or she must call a doctor promptly to discuss the accident and obtain medical advice, says DMV.org. 

Even in the case of delayed injury effects, victims of auto accidents should make an appointment with their doctor as soon as possible. With the help of medical professionals, the patient can make a connection between the accident and the injuries. In Utah, this connection is vital in settling a personal injury claim. 

What is important is that the responsible party, or their insurance company, pays for a victim’s injuries or damages.

Failure to get legal documentation doesn’t mean a victim can’t make a personal injury case. Really, it just makes it harder to prove the case. However, failure to seek medical treatment following auto accidents in a timely manner reduces the likelihood of an injured party receiving coverage. 

That is right, many insurance companies won’t provide coverage for medical treatment if a victim waits too long.

Seriously, even if victims feel fine with just minor cuts and bruises, they must contact their doctor quickly – especially if they are planning to file a personal injury claim. By waiting, the plaintiffs are giving the at-fault party’s insurance company and lawyer with defense to use against them. 

Many doctors and personal injury lawyers in Utah recommend that their clients keep a medical diary to document how their injuries affect their life. This helps insurance companies to determine the extent of injuries, even if the victims don’t seek urgent medical care. You can never have too much evidence when settling claims in court. 

Bottom line, anyone involved in auto accidents should seek some form of medical help. Settling a claim without evidence and documentation is difficult. From cuts and bruises to traumatic injuries, everyone should be compensated for their expenses. 

Aubrey Andersen-Bakker  is a legal writer reporter for Fusion 360, a Content Marketing Agency. Information provided by Robert J Debry