The Accident I Almost Ignored: Why “Small” Injuries Deserve Real Attention

 

You never think it’s going to be you.
You board the plane, land somewhere new, feel invincible.
But sometimes, it’s not the big emergencies that teach you the hardest lessons—it’s the small ones you almost ignore.

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It wasn’t a dramatic crash.
Just a scraped arm, a bruised ego, and a decision I regret more than I’d like to admit.

I was crossing a street in Chiang Mai, distracted, when a scooter clipped me.
My arm bled through my sleeve. People offered help. Someone suggested a clinic.

I should’ve said yes.
But I didn’t.
I was embarrassed—didn’t want to look weak, cause a scene, or be “that tourist.”

So I wrapped my arm with a dirty towel and limped back to the hostel.

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That’s what still stings.
I had a solid travel insurance plan, the hotline in my phone, and every right to get help.
But I didn’t call—not because I couldn’t, but because I wouldn’t.
Pride, embarrassment, and the idea that “insurance is for big stuff” kept me from using what I’d already paid for.

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That night, fever set in.
The wound got worse.
By morning, I finally went to a clinic—paid cash, got antibiotics, and left.
No official receipt, no doctor’s note, nothing to file a claim.

All I got was a scar, a day lost to fever, and a bill I could have avoided.

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Looking back, I realize:
Travel insurance isn’t about drama—it’s about backup.
It’s about giving yourself permission to get care, even for “small” things.

Now, before every trip, I:

Step	What To Do	Why It Matters
1	Read policy highlights	Know what’s actually covered
2	Save emergency hotline to Notes	Quick access in a crisis
3	Create “[Country] – Medical” folder	Store docs/receipts instantly
4	Set claim reminder (within 7 days)	Avoid missed deadlines
5	Screenshot “how to claim” instructions	No searching when you’re sick
6	Keep receipts (paper or upload)	Proof for every expense

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•  — Importance: 9/10

•  — 10/10

•  — 8/10

•  — 7/10

•  — 8/10

•  — 9/10

Tip: Don’t wait. Even “small” incidents deserve the full process.

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No one gives you a medal for toughing it out.
No one says, “Wow, you’re so strong for ignoring medical care.”
All I got was a scar, a lost day, and a bill I could have avoided.

If you ever find yourself saying you’re okay when you’re not—call.
Even if it’s “just a scratch.”
It’s better to use your coverage than carry the regret.

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: Should I use insurance for small injuries?
A: Yes. Even minor issues can get worse, and you’re paying for the right to get help.

: What’s the most important step?
A: Contact your insurer’s hotline before treatment and keep every receipt.

: What if I’m embarrassed to ask for help?
A: Remember: insurance is for you. There’s no shame in using what you paid for.