Car crashes are consistently one of the leading causes of serious injuries. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that motor vehicle collisions cause nearly $500 billion in damages in the United States each year. If you were hurt in a crash, it is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. Proper medical care is an absolute must.
Unfortunately, delayed car accident injuries are a serious problem. Too many people are more hurt in a crash than they initially realize.
Your car accident injuries require immediate medical care—for your health, your well-being, and for your car accident personal injury claim. Here, our Downey auto accident attorney explains how delayed injuries can impact your case.
Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident are Common
As anyone involved in a car crash can tell you, it is immensely stressful. A car accident brings a rush of adrenaline. Feeling frustrated, scared, overwhelmed, confused, or any combination of a wide range of emotions is normal. With so much going on at the scene of the crash, a person’s physical needs are too often a secondary consideration. Indeed, it is very common for people to feel worse 24, 48, 72, or even 96 hours after a car accident. Many common car accident injuries arise with delayed symptoms. Notable examples include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is an injury that can arise from the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck. It is not uncommon for the symptoms to be mild, but over time, many injured victims may experience increasing neck stiffness and/or severe pain. Whiplash can also lead to serious headaches that may manifest several days after the crash. Medical care is a must.
- Back Pain: Back pain after a car accident may not be immediately apparent due to the body’s initial adrenaline rush. As the adrenaline wears off, the pain can surface, ranging from persistent aches to sharp, debilitating pain. That back pain should be taken seriously. It may be the sign of a serious injury to muscles, nerves, or even the spinal column.
- Numbness/Tingling (Nerve Damage): Numbness or tingling sensations often indicate underlying nerve damage from the accident. These symptoms might develop hours or days later as inflammation sets in and compresses the nerves. Affected areas can include hands, feet, arms, and legs. Any signs of nerve damage should be evaluated by a qualified doctor.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): TBIs are not always accompanied by immediate symptoms. Indeed, concussions are among the most common delayed auto accident injuries. Victims might experience a delayed onset of confusion, blurred vision, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can evolve and worsen, becoming apparent only days after the accident. Ongoing medical attention is required.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries such as bleeding or organ damage can initially go unnoticed. Symptoms like deep abdominal pain, dizziness, or fainting may develop over time as the condition worsens. In some cases, internal injuries can even be a life-threatening emergency. Urgent medical attention is required.
Prompt Medical Care is a Must to Promote Recovery
Involved in a motor vehicle collision? Any physical injury—indeed, any signs of a physical injury—should be evaluated by a doctor.
Remember, delayed injuries are relatively common in traffic accidents. You may have a more serious injury than you think. Prompt medical attention after a car accident is crucial, even if you feel fine initially. Seeing a doctor right away helps ensure that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated early. Timely medical care can make the difference.
You Need to See Immediate Medical Attention to Maximize Your Compensation
Victims need compensation to pay their bills and cover their damages. Did you know that if you fail to see a doctor after a crash, you could lose out on your right to get compensation for your injuries? Indeed, seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident is essential for supporting your injury claim. Insurance companies often scrutinize the time it takes for victims to seek medical care—and they may decide to interpret delays as a sign that the injuries were not serious.
Tip for Your Car Accident Personal Injury Claim: Carefully Document Your Injuries
Carefully documenting your injuries immediately following a car accident is vital for your personal injury claim. Insurance companies will look for any reason that they can find to pay out less. They care more about their bottom line than what is right for you and your family.
Proper documentation of your damages can make the difference in the claims process. Keep detailed records of all medical evaluations, treatments, prescribed medications, and any out-of-pocket expenses incurred. It is also often a best practice to take photographs of your injuries at different stages of the recovery process.
Why Rely On Our California Car Crash Attorney for Help With Your Delayed Injury Case
Car accident claims are complex—especially so for delayed injury claims. At The JLF Firm, we are always committed to putting the rights and the interests of victims and families first. You should always get immediate medical care—and the proper follow-up support—after an accident. Our team can help to ensure that you are connected with the right medical professionals. We will always handle all of your insurance needs so that you are in the best possible position to maximize your compensation, including for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Contact Our Downey, CA Auto Accident Lawyer Today for Your Free Case Review
At The JLF Firm, our Downey car crash attorney is committed to fighting for justice. You need proper medical care after an accident. If you have any questions about your case, we are here to help. Call us now or contact our firm online today to set up a free initial appointment. With an office in Downey, we represent injured victims in Los Angeles County and throughout Southern California, including in El Monte, Riverside, San Bernardino, Fontana, Van Nuys, and Pomona.