If you are lucky enough to walk away from a car accident, many consider you lucky enough. But what many do not take into account is the simple fact that there are many injuries that you could suffer in an accident that do not show up immediately.
Often this is because of the adrenaline pumping through your body at the time of the incident that might make you feel less or no pain at all. In other instances, you might have suffered an injury that takes time to develop.
It is important to be aware of these types of injuries and make sure you document any care you receive in relation to them. It will all be vital to any personal injury claims you make in the future. Read on to learn about a few common delayed injuries that people suffer in auto accidents.
Delayed, But Serious
It is also important to note that just because an injury is delayed, does not make it any less serious than an injury suffered at the moment of your car accident. They deserve the same attention and documentation. It is imperative you seek a medical professional to assess and treat your injuries following a car accident — delayed or not.
As far as delayed injuries go, three common ones are as follows:
Whiplash – this is an injury many people hear of but may not know exactly what it is. Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when you experience a sharp back-and-forth jerking motion in the neck. Symptoms include pain in the neck, upper back, shoulders and head. You may also experience headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision. Symptoms are typically delayed and usually appear anytime between 12 hours and five days from the actual injury.
Concussion – this is a traumatic brain injury that can happen if you suffer a blow to the head. In some instances, you can suffer a concussion without a blow to the head, as a sudden change in momentum can cause your brain to bounce around inside the skull as well. Symptoms of a concussion include headaches, disorientation, loss of equilibrium, bright lights sensitivity and increased irritation. It is important to note that you do not need to be knock unconscious to suffer a concussion.
Soft Tissue Injuries – these are basically any injuries to muscles, tendons or ligaments and are referred to as sprains, strains and bruises. This type of injury can take anywhere from a day to a week from the incident to appear. Symptoms can include inflammation, pain, stiffness, and discoloration, usually at the site or the injury.
Get Help from Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers
If you have suffered an injury in a car accident — delayed or not — you need the legal help of an experienced personal injury lawyer. In California, The Paris Firm has the skill and experience to help you through your injury and with your car accident claim.
Since 1994, they have been helping clients recover compensation for damages, pain and suffering. They will make sure responsible parties are held accountable for their negligent actions. In the meantime, you can concentrate on recovery and getting back to your life as it was. All you need to do is fill out the online contact form to begin discussing your case today.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.