It's always a good idea to seek medical treatment if you've been in a car accident. In some cases, pain or other signs of a potentially serious injury aren't apparent right away. A California doctor will likely be able to diagnose your condition and help you recover in an adequate and timely manner.

Shock could mask your pain

In the first hours after a car accident, your body may be in a state of shock. Therefore, you might not notice that it's difficult to turn your head or that you have a throbbing headache. Difficulty turning your head could be a sign of whiplash while a headache could be a sign of a concussion.

It's also important to note that internal injuries can go unnoticed unless a medical professional specifically looks for them. A doctor will typically perform an MRI, a CT scan or other tests to determine the severity of your injuries.

Seeking treatment can be important for insurance purposes

It isn't uncommon for insurance companies to look for ways to justify denying a claim. Going to a doctor immediately after a car accident might protect your right to obtain compensation from an insurance company. This is because you will have a doctor's note and medical records to use as proof that your injuries were related to the crash.

If you've been hurt in an auto accident, it's generally a good idea to see a doctor and then consult with a personal injury attorney. The lawyer could help you get compensation for your damages. This may be done by using medical records or other evidence proving that your injuries were caused by another person's negligent behavior.