Even minor fender-benders can generate enough force to cause serious injuries. Though many people walk away from car accidents without feeling any pain, that doesn’t mean that nothing’s wrong. Adrenaline and endorphins often block pain signals immediately after a traumatic event, preventing pain and other symptoms from setting in until later. Concussions and soft-tissue injuries are the most common delayed car accident injuries.
Signs of Concussions
The skull protects the brain, but the force from a car accident can still cause trauma as the brain forcefully hits the inside of the skull, causing a concussion. Concussion symptoms often include losing consciousness, disorientation, and other immediate signs. However, other symptoms may not be obvious immediately. They may show up as concentration problems, clouded thinking, memory issues, abnormal sleep patterns, headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Seeking medical attention directly after an accident, even if no symptoms are present, can minimize the potentially long-lasting effects of a concussion.
Other Accident-related Injuries
Broken bones are easy to spot, but soft tissue injuries aren’t. Muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments can suffer severe trauma during car accidents. It can take weeks to notice the symptoms of damage to these body parts. Many of these injuries aren’t visible on x-rays, so they may not even be documented by doctors during an examination immediately after an accident. Instead, they may eventually manifest as pain, swelling, and mobility problems. It’s time for another checkup as soon as further issues present themselves.
The Importance of Proper Documentation
Proper documentation helps car accident attorneys prove that injuries were sustained in a collision. Without proof, injured parties may not be able to receive compensation for medical costs or lost income from insurance companies and the at-fault driver. If a victim waits too long to see a doctor, insurance adjusters and judges are less likely to believe that their injuries were severe.
If you’ve been in a car accident and have started experiencing pain or other delayed symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Then, hire an attorney. Our team at Smith Shanklin Sosa has successfully helped many residents in the Baton Rouge area receive compensation for their injuries, and we may be able to assist in your case. You’ll work directly with our attorneys, and we can help you find a doctor to evaluate the full extent your injuries. Call us today at 225-424-6094 for a free consultation, and we’ll help you decide if you have a case.