NEEDHAM, Mass. — Dr. Onyinyechu Eke of Mass General discussed key considerations for seeking medical attention after a car crash during an interview on February 20, 2026.
Patients involved in crashes should assess injury severity before deciding on medical care. According to Dr. Eke, emergency rooms are meant for life-threatening injuries. Indicators requiring immediate medical attention include headaches, loss of consciousness, chest pain, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, or neurological deficits.
For non-life-threatening injuries, urgent care facilities may be more appropriate. These include sprains, strains, minor cuts, and small fractures, as they typically offer shorter wait times and lower costs.
Dr. Eke emphasized the need for thorough evaluations focusing on critical injuries like head trauma, internal bleeding, major fractures, or dislocations. If patients experience lingering soreness after a few days, especially if pain worsens, they should consult a medical professional for further assessment.