Recognizing Delayed Accident Injuries
Car collisions typically generate a lot of force, whether they involve minor fender-benders or a high-speed accident. “Minor” collisions are particularly problematic when it comes to recognizing personal injuries. People who think the accident is no big deal might not recognize injury symptoms right away.
Sometimes it’s obvious when you’ve been injured — fractures and lacerations are hard to ignore. But some injuries don’t manifest right away. Here are six common examples of delayed injury symptoms after a car crash:
- Headaches, while not always a sign of something serious, are not a symptom to ignore. Seek medical attention if you experience a headache after a car accident. You might have a concussion or other brain injury.
- Low back pain is a commonly reported ailment after a car accident, but you might not notice it right away. Any type of back pain could indicate there’s been damage to your muscles, nerves or ligaments.
- Whiplash is an injury to your neck, and it’s often slow to manifest. If your neck or shoulders are stiff after a car accident then you might be suffering from whiplash. Another common symptom is numbness in your arms and hands.
- Internal bleeding is a life-threatening condition that often goes undiscovered for hours or even days. Some signs include stomach pain and swelling, dizziness, and large bruises.
- Traumatic brain injuries are a common car accident injury, but they aren’t always obvious. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of a concussion, like impaired thinking or vision problems. Headaches (see above) are another concerning sign.
- Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects a lot of injury victims. If you start having flashbacks about the accident or nightmares then you might be suffering from PTSD.
These aren’t the only delayed symptoms injury victims experience. Seek medical attention immediately if you’re involved in a car accident, no matter how “minor.” Follow up if any new symptoms pop up.
Suing for Damages
One problem with delayed injuries is it also delays when you seek personal injury damages. The deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Florida is four years from the date of the injury-causing accident, so contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you file, the less likely it is that crucial evidence will be lost.
Also remember that Florida is a comparative fault state. If you are partially at fault for the accident then your damages will be reduced accordingly.
Contact Us Today
Contact an Orlando auto injury attorney at The Pendas Law Firm today for a free consultation if you are injured in a car accident. You might be entitled to compensation from the negligent driver if your insurance doesn’t cover all of your damages. We can help ensure you receive the compensation that you deserve, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, Miami, Daytona Beach and Bradenton areas.
