Car accidents are unfortunate yet common, which means it’s important to be prepared.

Many car crash victims don’t see a doctor right after their accident. And those who do go, may not share their full story with the doctor. Such mistakes could mean prolonged symptoms, chronic pain and could even cost you great financial loss if you are filing a personal injury claim.

If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident, you should always see a personal injury doctor and seek treatment as soon as possible. And don’t forget to give honest, thorough answers to any questions from our doctor. However, sometimes even this isn’t enough.

In fact, you should be proactive and ask your doctor the right questions to ensure your health is restored. And as you receive medical treatment, you can also build necessary documentation for your personal injury claim.

Here are the 5 most important questions to ask your doctor after a car accident.

What are my injuries?

To understand your condition, you should know about your injuries. Diagnosing your injuries may require testing and imaging, such as an X-ray, or MRI.

When the doctor tells you about your injury, ask the doctor to be as specific as possible. Also ask the doctor to document whether the injury is minor, moderate, or severe.

What is my outlook for recovery?

It is important to know your long-term outlook, not only for your health but to determine how much compensation you’re entitled to,with a personal injury claim. Ask your doctor how long they believe it will take for you to recover fully.

Do I need medication?

Give your doctor the description of any medications you’re currently taking. This will help to avoid any side effects or negative interactions. You can also ask about any medications to treat the pain, swelling, etc.

When can I return to work?

Depending on your job and the nature of your injury and symptoms, you may not be able to return to work for some time or even forever. A personal or work injury claim can help you get the compensation for lost wages and treatment. But it is important to know how long it would take to return to work and f there would be any limitations when you get back.

Do I need to see a specialist?

Your first doctor may be able to diagnose your injuries, and design a treatment plan. But in some cases, you may need to see a specialist.