As a lawyer handling car accident in Bowling Green, I’ve seen many cases where individuals involved in car accidents don’t immediately realize the severity of their injuries. One key reason is that pain doesn’t always manifest right away. Understanding the signs and symptoms of injury is crucial for your health and your legal case.
After a car accident, the adrenaline and shock can mask pain, but that doesn’t mean you’re uninjured. If you experience pain hours or days later, it’s often a sign of soft tissue injuries, whiplash, or even internal injuries. Here are some common indications of injury that may appear after the accident:
1. Neck and Shoulder Pain: Delayed pain in these areas often points to whiplash, one of the most common car accident injuries. Symptoms might not appear until 24 to 48 hours after the incident.
2. Headaches: Post-accident headaches could signal a variety of injuries, from a concussion to more severe issues like a blood clot. Never ignore persistent or worsening headaches.
3. Back Pain: A sign of injury to the muscles, ligaments, or even the spine. This can develop later, especially if there has been sudden force or twisting during the crash.
4. Numbness or Tingling: If you feel any numbness, especially in the arms or legs, it may indicate nerve damage or spinal injury.
5. Abdominal Pain or Swelling: This can indicate internal injuries, including internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if untreated.
6. Emotional and Mental Changes: Don’t overlook psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, which can manifest after the trauma of a car accident.
Why Is This Important for Your Case?
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Not only for your health, but also for your legal claim. Insurance companies often downplay injuries or try to settle quickly. If pain manifests later and you haven’t documented it properly, you could miss out on compensation that covers long-term medical care.
Always consult with a medical professional and document every symptom, no matter how minor it may seem. if you’re unsure about your rights, reach out to our office on 270-202-0768 for a free case review. We will help you navigate your case and secure the compensation you deserve.
