If I was just involved in auto accident but am afraid to go to emergency room because I has opiates in my system, what should I do?
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If I was just involved in auto accident but am afraid to go to emergency room because I has opiates in my system, what should I do?
Asked on June 19, 2014 under Accident Law, Kentucky
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
You need to put your health first: if you suspect that you have a potentially life threatening condition (e.g. a concussion--which can be lethal--or internal bleeding) or possibly debilitating or disabling injury (injured disc, injured joint, etc.), you have to get it taken care of first, then worry about legal liability. Doctor-patient confidentiality and the confidentiality of medical records will provide considerable protection--the physician(s) can't simply call the police with whatever they find, unless there is reason to believe you pose a threat to self or others, or some other exigent circumstance exists--but it is true that you could end up facing legal liability. However, that is less serious than potentially dying or facing lifetime disability.
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