Accident Update: Rear-Ended by a Semi Truck
On October 17th, I was rear-ended by a semi truck. The state police determined that the truck driver was at fault. The impact caused me to collide with two other vehicles: I sideswiped a white BMW and hit the corner of another truck, ultimately rolling into the median. Immediately after the accident, I experienced a severe headache. After exchanging information and involving the police, I went to the hospital, where I was diagnosed with a mild concussion.
The following day, I visited my primary care doctor, who placed me on light duty for two weeks while I recovered from my concussion symptoms. After those two weeks, I still had lingering symptoms, so she extended my light duty for an additional week. Once I was cleared, three weeks post-accident, I began experiencing lower back pain, prompting me to pursue massage and chiropractic therapy.
By November 15th, I was staying on top of my therapy. However, I started a full-time job at the beginning of the year, which made it difficult for me to continue my chiropractic appointments. I ended up stopping treatment for about a month to a month and a half. Unfortunately, February was tough; I dealt with the flu and later contracted pneumonia, which kept me out of work for about three weeks.
I want to return to therapy now, but I’m concerned about how the long gap in treatment might affect my settlement. I’m considering hiring a lawyer and would appreciate any advice on how to navigate this situation.
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident and the challenges you’ve been facing. It’s important to prioritize your health, so getting back into therapy is definitely a good move. Regarding your concerns about the settlement, it’s not uncommon for treatment gaps to occur, especially when life gets in the way. However, document everything: your injuries, treatments, and how they’ve impacted your life. A lawyer can help you collect and present this information effectively when negotiating a settlement.
When you do consult with a lawyer, be upfront about your timeline and treatment history. They can guide you on the best path forward, including how to document your pain and recovery process despite the interruptions. Don’t hesitate to seek the care you need; your well-being is the priority. Wishing you a smooth recovery and good luck with everything!