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When You Don’t Trust Doctors After An Injury
It is an unfortunate reality that many people have good reasons to not trust doctors but if you have been injured because of someone else’s negligence, it’s important to get medical help for your injuries as well as to provide proof and a record of your injury. If you have been injured, a Tampa, FL personal injury lawyer can provide you with legal guidance and support on what you need to do to seek compensation for your injury. If you do not know when you should contact an accident lawyer, many personal injury law firms give free consultations.
Why Some People Avoid Medical Treatment After An Injury
Let’s be honest: not everyone walks away from the ER or a doctor’s office feeling supported. Some of the most common reasons people avoid or delay care after an accident include:
- Past medical trauma or neglect
- Feeling like doctors didn’t believe their pain
- Misdiagnoses or overprescribed medications
- Financial stress and fear of surprise bills
- Cultural or generational distrust of the healthcare system
- Anxiety around medical settings
The NIH found that medical mistrust is a significant factor in delaying treatment, especially among individuals who’ve previously felt unseen or disrespected.
You are not wrong for having these feelings. But to protect your injury claim, you’ll need to find a way to document your condition in a way that’s safe, respectful, and empowering.
Why Avoiding Medical Care Can Hurt Your Injury Claim
The legal system is built on documentation. No matter how severe your injuries are, if you don’t seek medical attention:
- The insurance company may claim you weren’t actually hurt
- A delay in treatment can be used against you
- Your symptoms might be labeled as pre-existing or unrelated
- Your case may be undervalued or denied entirely
Even if you’re legitimately in pain, insurance adjusters are trained to use gaps in care as evidence that you’re exaggerating.
Your pain is real. Your story matters. But it needs to be documented.
Steps To Take If You Don’t Fully Trust Doctors
You don’t have to ignore your instincts. Here’s how to take care of your health and your case—on your own terms:
1. Start With A Provider You Choose, Not One You’re Forced Into
You don’t need to go to the doctor the insurance company recommends. In fact, you shouldn’t.
Ask people you trust. Look for trauma-informed providers or practices that specialize in post-accident care. If you need help, we can connect you with medical professionals who prioritize compassion and communication.
2. Be Honest About Your Fears
Tell your doctor or care provider if you’re anxious, skeptical, or have had a bad experience in the past.
A good provider will meet you with empathy and may adjust their approach to help you feel more in control.
3. Keep A Personal Health Journal
If you don’t want to visit a doctor right away, start documenting:
- Pain levels each day
- Activities you can’t do
- Sleep quality
- Emotional impact (stress, frustration, isolation)
- Photos of bruises, swelling, or mobility issues
A daily record adds legitimacy to your claim and shows how the injury is affecting your life—even before or between appointments.
4. Seek Alternative Or Complementary Care
You don’t have to rely on traditional doctors alone. In many states, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and even mental health therapy can be included in your claim—as long as it’s reasonable and related to your injuries.
At Mickey Keenan, P.A., we frequently work with clients who prefer non-hospital providers. Our network includes professionals who listen, explain, and treat without judgment.
5. Get Legal Help Sooner Than Later
If you’re hesitating on medical care, speak with an attorney early. We can help:
- Recommend trusted providers
- Guide you through what documentation matters
- Handle communication with the insurance company so you don’t feel pressured or manipulated
- Create space for you to heal without legal stress
What The Insurance Company Doesn’t Want You To Know
Adjusters aren’t interested in whether you feel comfortable. They’re interested in whether they can minimize your payout.
They may say things like:
- You didn’t go to the doctor, so you must not be that hurt.
- You waited too long to get treatment.
- There’s no objective proof of your injury.
That’s why we work so hard to protect clients who’ve experienced medical trauma or fear—because justice should be accessible to everyone, not just those who’ve had good experiences in the system.
Final Thoughts: It’s Okay To Be Careful—And Still Demand Justice
You’re not weak for feeling cautious. You’re not paranoid for wanting answers. And, you’re not being difficult when you ask to be treated like a human.
But don’t let fear stop you from protecting your future. Getting treatment for your injury is important and this can be valuable evidence in your personal injury claim.
At Mickey Keenan, P.A., we meet you where you are. Whether you’ve seen five doctors or none, we’ll help you create a path forward—one that respects your experience and builds the strongest possible case. Reach out today for a free, no-pressure consultation. You deserve to heal with support, not stress.