What Are the Signs of Delayed Car Accident Injuries?
When car accidents happen, it is common for victims to focus on addressing visible injuries and vehicle damage. However, not all injuries show symptoms immediately after an accident. Delayed car accident injuries are common and can range from mild to severe, potentially causing long-term health issues if left untreated. It is highly advisable to observe the signs of these injuries and take necessary steps to protect your health and legal rights.
A car accident lawyer in Lancaster can help document your injuries to bolster your claim. If you are experiencing any signs of delayed car accident injuries, engage us at HGSK Injury Lawyers immediately. We will evaluate your situation and advise you on the best steps to take moving forward.
Why Do Some Car Accident Injuries Show Up Later?
In the moments following a car accident, your body produces adrenaline and other stress hormones that mask pain and discomfort. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, such injuries are considered secondary, meaning they manifest gradually over the next couple of hours, days, or weeks following an injury.
This natural response can delay the onset of symptoms, leading you to believe you’re unharmed when, in fact, underlying injuries are present and advancing. Additionally, some injuries, such as soft tissue damage or internal trauma, naturally take time to develop noticeable symptoms.
What Are the Common Signs of Delayed Injuries After a Car Accident?
According to Florida Medical Pain Management, delayed accident injuries occur when symptoms manifest 24-48 hours after a crash. While some accident victims believe that making it through the first 24 hours without observing any injuries is safe, this isn’t always the case.
If you’ve recently been in a car accident in Lancaster, it is recommended to watch for these signs of delayed injuries in the days and weeks following the incident:
Headaches
Headaches might seem minor, but they could indicate more serious conditions, such as the following issues:
- Concussion
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Blood clot
Do not take headaches lightly after an accident. If you experience persistent or worsening headaches, it is time to go for medical evaluation.
Neck or Shoulder Pain
Whiplash, one of the most common car accident injuries, often doesn’t present symptoms immediately. Issues such as stiffness, pain, or reduced range of motion in the neck and shoulders could signal soft tissue damage or spinal issues.
Back Pain
Back pain can result from damage to muscles, ligaments, or vertebrae. It may also indicate more severe injuries like herniated discs or spinal cord damage. If you notice discomfort in your back, it is time to visit your healthcare professional for medical evaluation. Ignoring these symptoms could spell chronic or long-term pain.
Numbness or Tingling
These sensations can be signs of nerve damage, often a precursor to paralysis or neurological damage. Typically, numbness or tingling is associated with nerve damage, spinal cord damage, or a herniated disk. Sadly, these signs could indicate limb, neck, back, or head injuries, and the only way to find out the exact injury is by getting a medical examination.
Emotional Changes
During severe car crashes, such as those involving trucks, victims may be exposed to traumatic events, especially where there are severe injuries or death. This exposure may increase their risk of psychological issues. According to the NIH, those involved in serious traffic crashes experience psychological issues, especially PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD following an accident include:
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Avoidance
- Sleeping difficulties
- Trouble concentrating
- Aggression
- Flashbacks
Victims of car accidents should note that emotional symptoms are just as important as physical ones and should be addressed immediately. Your lawyer can help file a lawsuit for PTSD to secure recovery from the emotional suffering you have gone through.
Steps to Take if You Experience Delayed Car Accident Injuries
If you notice any of these signs after a car accident, even if your symptoms seem mild, visit a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and be sure to advise your doctor of all symptoms you have had since the accident. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and provide valuable documentation for your injury claim.
Also, keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they began and how they progressed. This documentation will play a vital role in establishing an injury timeline, which is a necessary consideration when seeking compensation for your losses.
Delayed injuries can complicate claims. So, if you notice them, you should call your lawyer immediately. A car accident lawyer in Lancaster will help you navigate the ins and outs of your case and ensure you receive proper financial recovery. Keep in mind that the quicker you take action to seek the necessary treatment, the better you can protect your right to pursue compensation from the party at fault.
Get Support From a Lancaster Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a family member is experiencing any of the above symptoms following a car crash, it could indicate a more serious underlying problem. To address the potential injuries, it is advisable to seek immediate medical evaluation. Contact HGSK Injury Lawyers for a free consultation and guidance on how to safeguard your rights and interests. Call us today at (267) 350-6600 to get started.