Do I Need to See a Doctor After a Minor Pedestrian Accident?

Do I Need to See a Doctor After a Minor Pedestrian Accident?

On Behalf of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa | February 8, 2025 | Pedestrian Accidents

If you have been struck by a car and you only suffered minor injuries, you should still seek a medical evaluation. If you have suffered no discernable injuries, then you can likely wait to be seen by your primary care physician. If you did sustain injuries, then depending on the severity and type of symptoms you are experiencing, you should visit either the emergency room or urgent care. 

In this blog, our Port St. Lucie pedestrian accident lawyers discuss common minor injuries in a crash and what type of medical attention should be sought based on your condition.

Abrasions

More commonly referred to as “road rash,” an abrasion occurs when a person is thrust across pavement or a rough surface, resulting in the top layer of skin rubbing off. Road rash is extremely painful, causing the skin to even bleed. However, if you experience yellow discharge, swelling, or a fever, you should visit the ER since these may be signs of infection.

Lacerations and Contusions

Lacerations (cuts) and contusions (bruises) are common soft tissue injuries in a pedestrian accident. These are considered minor injuries, but you may need medical care if you are experiencing uncontrollable bleeding, numbness in the impacted area, or redness or warmth around the wound. These symptoms could be a sign of internal injuries.

Fractures

Although a fracture or broken bone may not seem serious, you should seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, a broken bone can pose a significant threat. This is often the case for pedestrians who experience a compound fracture, which involves a broken bone puncturing the skin. If a fracture remains untreated, it could improperly align during healing, causing visibility deformities and long-term complications. 

When Should I Go to the ER or Urgent Care?

If you have suffered a serious bodily injury, then it is best that you seek immediate medical attention. Fla. Stat. §316.027(1)(a) defines serious bodily injury as involving any condition that increases a person’s risk of death, causes disfigurement, or loss or impairment of a bodily part or function. As previously mentioned, even minor injuries may require medical intervention based on presenting symptoms. 

Generally, if you have a life-threatening condition, you should go to the ER since urgent care is not typically equipped to handle such cases. An ER visit will be warranted if you are experiencing chest pain, heavy or uncontrollable bleeding, and severe burns. If you decide that your condition is less severe, you can visit urgent care. Be aware that some urgent care centers are appointment-only, while others may accept walk-ins but may involve an extended wait time.

Experienced Representation to Assist Your Recovery

Many pedestrians suffer various expenses following an accident, including lost wages, surgeries and treatments, and physical therapy visits. If you are on a high-deductible health insurance plan, then medical visits and treatments can cost you thousands of dollars. Generally, the cost to see a specialist can be anywhere between $250-$350, depending on the specific specialty and type of insurance you carry. Given your limited ability to work, these costs can be overwhelming, placing you into debt during a time when additional stress is the last thing you need.

At Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa Attorneys at Law, we are here to represent any pedestrian hit by a motor vehicle. No injury is too small, with every individual deserving representation to recoup accident-related costs. 

Injured? Contact Our Port St. Lucie Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Even after your wounds have healed, the expenses from a pedestrian accident can leave you in overwhelming debt. If you have recently been injured in a pedestrian accident, the legal team at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa Attorneys at Law would like to hear from you. Do not let one incident squash your endeavors. To schedule your free consultation, feel free to contact us online or give us a call today.