After a car accident, some injuries are obvious right away, but others can sneak up on you, appearing hours, days, or even weeks later. These delayed injuries can be just as serious—if not more so—than those that are immediately apparent.
At Smith Jordan Law, we understand how unsettling delayed symptoms can be and are here to help you through every step of the process. From ensuring you get the medical care you need to fighting for fair compensation, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for more from our skilled Greenville car accident lawyers, then call (864) 343-2222 to schedule a free consultation.
Why are symptoms sometimes delayed after an accident?
Car accidents are traumatic events, and the body’s natural fight-or-flight response can mask pain in the immediate aftermath. When you’re stressed, your body releases adrenaline, which increases alertness and energy while reducing your perception of pain. This can make you feel fine, even if you’ve sustained a serious injury.
In addition, some injuries take time to manifest. For example, swelling from soft tissue damage or internal injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later. That’s why paying close attention to your body in the days following an accident is important.
Common delayed symptoms after a car accident
Even if you feel fine right after the accident, delayed symptoms could indicate underlying injuries that need medical attention. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
Headaches
A headache might seem harmless, but after a car accident, it could be a sign of something more serious, like a concussion, whiplash, or even a blood clot. If you start experiencing headaches after the crash, seek medical attention to rule out any significant brain or neck injuries.
Back pain
Back pain is a common delayed injury after car accidents, especially since the spine absorbs much of the force in a crash. Back pain could indicate a soft tissue injury, herniated disc, or even spinal cord damage, which could worsen if left untreated.
Neck and shoulder pain
Neck and shoulder pain, particularly stiffness, is often a sign of whiplash, one of the most common injuries in car accidents. Whiplash occurs when the neck is jerked forward and back suddenly, causing damage to muscles and ligaments. Left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain or complications.
Abdominal pain
If you experience abdominal pain or bruising after a car accident, it could be a sign of internal bleeding or damage to your internal organs. Internal injuries don’t always present symptoms immediately, so if you notice discomfort in your abdomen, seek medical attention immediately.
Numbness or tingling
Numbness, tingling, or limb weakness could indicate nerve damage from the accident. Nerve injuries, particularly in the back or neck, can cause long-term damage if they aren’t diagnosed and treated quickly.
Behavioral changes
Not all delayed symptoms are physical. If you notice changes in your mood, sleep patterns, or personality, it could be a sign of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Behavioral symptoms are often linked to concussions or other head injuries, and they require immediate attention to prevent further complications.
What to do if you experience delayed symptoms
- 1. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine immediately after an accident, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is essential. A medical professional can evaluate your condition and check for injuries that may not yet show symptoms. Follow their advice closely, attend follow-up appointments, and take prescribed medications to aid your recovery.
- 2. Monitor your symptoms – Monitor your body in the days and weeks after the accident. Some injuries may take time to surface, so it’s important to stay vigilant. If new symptoms arise, return to your doctor or a specialist to get the necessary medical care.
- 3. Document everything – Keep detailed records of all your medical visits, prescriptions, and treatments. Also, maintain a personal journal where you record your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. This documentation will be crucial if you need to file a compensation claim.
Legal implications of delayed injuries
Proving your injuries
Injury claims involving delayed symptoms can be challenging because insurance companies may question whether the accident caused your injury. If symptoms don’t appear immediately, insurers might argue that something else happened after the accident to cause the injury. This is why documenting your symptoms and seeking medical attention is crucial.
Insurance challenges
Insurance companies often try to reduce or deny claims for delayed injuries. They may ask probing questions or request access to all your medical records to find inconsistencies. Working with an experienced attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Hurt in a car crash? Don’t delay – contact us for legal help.
At Smith Jordan Law, we understand the complexities of delayed injury cases. Our attorneys will guide you through the legal process, help you gather the necessary medical evidence, and protect your rights. Contact us today if you’ve experienced delayed injuries from a car accident.
