Symptoms can be delayed after an automobile crash because the body, in response to shock or acute stress, produces adrenaline and endorphins, which can temporarily block pain and other symptoms. Once these chemicals subside, the symptoms start to surface. Sometimes injuries may not cause any discomfort until the injury has worsened over time.
When Can Symptoms Appear?
The period it may take symptoms of injuries after a car accident to appear varies depending on the specific nature of the injury and the individual. Some symptoms might show up within a few hours, while others may take days, weeks, or even months to appear.
What Can a Lawyer Do to Help Me Sue for Delayed Injury Symptoms?
A personal injury lawyer can be crucial in delayed injury cases. To begin with, they can help gather necessary evidence, witness statements, medical records, and accident reports. They’ll also handle negotiations with insurance companies who often downplay late-appearing injuries. If necessary, a lawyer can even take your case to court to ensure you receive fair compensation.
What Kind of Symptoms Can Appear Late?
Late-appearing symptoms can include headaches, neck and shoulder pain, back pain, numbness, abdominal pain or swelling, changes in personality or physical function, PTSD, and even seemingly unrelated symptoms like changes in hearing or vision.
What Injuries Have Delayed Symptoms?
Several injuries may have late-appearing symptoms, including whiplash, concussions, or other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), internal bleeding, herniated discs, and soft tissue injuries.
How Do I Prove a Claim For Compensation Involving Late-Appearing Injury Symptoms?
Proving compensation claims involving late-appearing injury symptoms can be challenging due to the gap between the accident and the appearance of symptoms. Even if you feel okay, you must see a doctor as soon as possible after your injury – and certainly as soon as symptoms appear. This establishes a record linking the accident and your injury. Keep a journal documenting all symptoms and the impact they have on your day-to-day life. Lastly, consult with a personal injury attorney who can help you build a strong case and guide you through the process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, late-appearing injury symptoms following a crash can result from the body’s initial response to trauma and stress; adrenaline and endorphins temporarily mask the pain, hence the delay. The manifestation period of these symptoms can range from a few hours to several months and include diverse indicators such as headaches, back pain, and changes in personality or physical function, among others. Key delayed car accident injuries with late-appearing symptoms include whiplash, concussions, internal bleeding, herniated discs, and soft tissue injuries. Given the challenges involved in proving a delayed injury claim, it’s imperative to seek immediate medical attention after an accident, monitor and document your symptoms, and engage with a personal injury attorney to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Remember, delayed does not mean insignificant; everyone should take possible late-appearing symptoms seriously post-accident.
