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Being injured in an accident is stressful enough, but finding out that your doctor won’t treat you afterward can make the situation even more challenging. Unfortunately, this scenario is not uncommon, especially when a personal injury claim is involved. Let’s look at the steps to get the medical care you need and the compensation you deserve

Why Might a Doctor Refuse to Treat You After an Accident?

There are several reasons why a doctor may decline to treat patients injured in accidents, including:

  • Legal disputes–Some doctors avoid treating accident victims due to their potential involvement in legal claims. They may not want to deal with insurance companies, attorneys, or court appearances.
  • Billing concerns–If there’s uncertainty about who will pay for your medical bills—whether it’s your insurance, the at-fault party’s insurance, or you—some doctors may hesitate to provide treatment.
  • Specialized treatment needs–in some cases, your injuries may require specialized care that your primary doctor isn’t equipped to provide.

Regardless of the reason, being turned away can leave you feeling frustrated and unsure of how to proceed.

Steps to Take If Your Doctor Won’t Treat You

If your doctor refuses to treat you after an accident, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to get the care you need:

1. Seek Immediate Care Elsewhere

If your injuries are severe and require urgent attention, visit an emergency room or urgent care clinic. Emergency medical providers are obligated to treat you, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your injury. Prompt medical attention is also critical for your health and documenting your injuries.

2. Consult Your Health Insurance Provider

Your health insurance provider can help you find doctors within your network who can treat accident-related injuries. If needed, explain your situation and ask for referrals to specialists, such as orthopedic doctors, neurologists, or physical therapists.

3. Look for Doctors Experienced in Treating Accident Victims

Some healthcare providers specialize in treating patients injured in accidents and are familiar with the legal and insurance processes involved. These doctors often work on a lien basis, meaning they agree to be paid from the settlement or judgment of your personal injury claim.

4. Communicate With Your Attorney

If you have hired a personal injury attorney, inform them of the issue. They may be able to recommend healthcare providers who understand accident-related injuries and are willing to work with legal claims. Your attorney can also help address billing concerns and clarify payment arrangements.

Why Prompt Medical Treatment Matters

Delaying medical treatment after an accident can have serious consequences, both for your health and your personal injury case. Here’s why seeking care promptly is essential:

  • Health and recovery–Untreated injuries can worsen over time, leading to long-term complications. Timely care ensures you have the best chance of recovery.
  • Documenting injuries–Medical records are a critical piece of evidence in personal injury cases. Delays in treatment can give insurance companies or opposing counsel a reason to question the severity of your injuries or whether they were caused by the accident.
  • Legal obligations–Failing to mitigate damages—by seeking prompt medical attention—can impact the compensation you’re entitled to receive.

By promptly addressing your medical needs, you protect your health and legal rights.

What Not to Do

When faced with a doctor’s refusal to treat you after an accident, avoid these missteps:

  • Delaying treatment–Waiting too long to seek care can harm your health and weaken your case.
  • Downplaying your injuries–Always be honest and thorough when describing your symptoms to medical providers.
  • Handling it alone–Navigating medical and legal challenges can be overwhelming. Seek professional guidance to ensure you’re on the right path.

How Legal Representation Can Help

Dealing with injuries, uncooperative doctors, and insurance companies can be overwhelming after an accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring you get the medical care you need and the compensation you deserve.

At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we understand your challenges and are here to help. From finding medical providers to building a strong case for your claim, our team is committed to standing by your side every step of the way.If you’ve been injured in an accident and are struggling to get the care you need, contact us today for a consultation. Let us help you focus on recovery while we handle the rest.

About the Author
Our firm was founded in 2002 with a unique definition of “success.” Rather than making large legal fees our goal, we believed – and continue to believe – that creating as many satisfied clients as possible would lead to true success. Building a family of satisfied clients who we helped through a difficult time in their life was – and remains – the best reward of being an attorney. Our firm focuses on personal injury claims, serving clients in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. When you meet with us, we will listen to your story, understand your concerns, and address those concerns by providing compassionate, effective representation and dependable service.