Car accidents are often overwhelming and traumatic events. Whether through shock, adrenaline, or simply the type of damage, some injuries do not present symptoms right away, giving off the illusion that you are unharmed. If your car accident injuries do not show up immediately and instead appear later on, it may complicate your personal injury case. However, you can still pursue legal action and compensation. Work with a skillful San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer for legal representation and advice during your case.
Why Don’t Some Injuries Appear Right Away?
The human body was designed to protect itself and survive in many ways. During a stressful time like a car accident, the body’s natural response is to go into fight or flight to survive. Your body will release adrenaline and endorphins which can mask pain and other symptoms. While in this state, you may not be able to understand the extent of your injuries. You may also have entered into a state of shock from the accident itself which can distract from any pain or injuries.
Because of your body’s reaction and other factors, some injuries can remain hidden for hours, days, or even weeks. The following injuries may have symptoms that develop over time.
- Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when your neck jerks forward and back aggressively. Symptoms like pain, stiffness, and headaches may take time to develop over the following hours or days.
- Concussions: If you hit your head there is a chance that you have a concussion. After your adrenaline wears off or in the following days you may begin to experience memory loss, confusion, headaches, nausea, blurred vision, and more.
- Sprains: Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are common after a car accident but may not show up right away. Over time you may begin to experience swelling, bruising, and pain.
- Internal injuries: Internal injuries are often severe but hard to identify. Organ damage, internal bleeding, or internal bruising may not present symptoms for several hours or days after a crash.
- Fractures: While some fractured or broken bones are immediately noticeable, others can remain hidden for some time.
What if My Car Accident Injuries Appear Later?
If your car accident injuries do not manifest right away, you can still pursue damages through the negligent party. It is important to take steps to protect your health and well-being as well as your legal right to compensation. Consider the following actions.
- Go to the doctor to get medically evaluated. Your health should be your number one priority, so even if you feel okay it is important to seek medical attention.
- Do not accept an insurance settlement until you understand your physical condition. Insurance companies often try to pressure you into signing, but if you have hidden injuries then it is important to wait a few weeks or until your doctor clears you.
- Monitor your health in the days and weeks after the accident. Keep a detailed record of all symptoms and issues.
- Gather evidence to connect your delayed injuries to the car accident. With the help of a lawyer gather information like the police report, medical records, witness testimony, expert testimony, and more.
If you were involved in a car accident it is crucial that you obtain help from an experienced lawyer. Reach out to a personal injury attorney for more information today.
