Thousands of people are injured in car accidents every year. Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the point of impact, and the use of seat belts. Some car accident injuries are immediately obvious such as cuts and fractures, while others aren’t obvious right away. It’s important not to assume that you are fine right after a car accident just because you feel okay – there are many car accident injuries with delayed symptoms. Always exchange insurance information with the other driver to make it easier to file a car accident claim against the at-fault driver.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident because of the negligence of another driver, you are entitled to a car accident settlement that covers your losses and injuries. Schedule a consultation with a local car accident lawyer who can discuss your legal rights and next steps.
Common Car Accident Injuries with Delayed Symptoms
Here are some of the most common car accident injuries that can exhibit delayed symptoms:
- Whiplash. Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that commonly occurs in rear-end collisions. It affects the neck and upper back due to the rapid back-and-forth movement of the head. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and shoulder or arm pain. Whiplash symptoms can develop hours or even days after the accident.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) and can have delayed symptoms. As mentioned earlier, symptoms such as headaches, confusion, memory problems, and changes in mood or behavior may not immediately appear. It is crucial to monitor for any signs of TBI after a car accident, even if symptoms initially seem mild.
- Internal injuries. Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, may not always present immediate symptoms. The adrenaline rush following an accident can temporarily mask pain or discomfort. However, symptoms may arise as the body’s response to trauma subsides. Delayed symptoms can include abdominal pain, swelling, dizziness, fainting, or changes in bowel movements or urine color.
- Spinal injuries. Spinal injuries, including herniated discs or fractures, can occur in car accidents and may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms may develop over time and could include back or neck pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities, weakness, or difficulty with balance or coordination.
- Psychological and emotional trauma. Car accidents can also lead to psychological and emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety. These conditions may not manifest immediately after the accident but can emerge in the days, weeks, or even months following the traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and changes in sleep or appetite.
It is important to understand that even if symptoms are delayed, it does not mean they should be ignored. Seeking medical attention promptly after a car accident is crucial, regardless of whether immediate symptoms are present or not. A healthcare professional can evaluate your condition, provide appropriate treatment, and ensure that any underlying injuries are identified and addressed
Seek the help of a car accident lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
