After a car accident, your body goes into a state of shock. Your mind races, and your body feels a rush of adrenaline. The body’s natural response to stress can hide injuries. Adrenaline acts like a painkiller. Once it wears off, the pain can start to appear.
The delayed pain after an accident can be a sign of a serious injury. It’s easy to ignore it at first, but it can get worse over time. These injuries need medical attention.
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term health problems. It can also make it harder to file a claim with an insurance company. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for. Our experienced Montgomery car accident lawyers can help.
Why Some Injuries Don’t Show Up Right Away
During a car crash, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode. This causes a sudden release of adrenaline and endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. These hormones can temporarily mask pain and make you feel less injured than you actually are.
After the initial shock wears off, your adrenaline levels return to normal. When this happens, the pain that was previously hidden can begin to emerge. This can be hours or even days after the accident.
Some injuries, like soft tissue damage to muscles and ligaments, can take time to become painful. Swelling and inflammation can build up gradually, causing a delayed ache. This is why it’s so important to be aware of what your body is telling you in the days that follow a crash.
Delayed Symptoms to Watch For After a Crash
Keep an eye out for these delayed pain after accident symptoms in the days following a car crash. If you feel any of these, don’t ignore them.
- Headaches: Headaches that appear hours or days after an accident can be a sign of a concussion, whiplash, or a brain injury. If they’re severe or get worse, seek medical help right away.
- Neck or Shoulder Pain: Whiplash is one of the most common delayed injuries after a car accident. It happens when your neck snaps back and forth suddenly. The pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion might not show up for a day or two.
- Back Pain: Back pain can signal a herniated disc, a sprain, or a fracture. It can be a simple ache or a sharp pain that makes it hard to move.
- Abdominal Pain or Swelling: This can be a sign of internal bleeding or organ damage. If you have a seatbelt mark and start to feel pain, get to a doctor.
- Numbness or Tingling: These sensations in your arms, legs, or hands can point to a pinched nerve or a back or neck injury.
How Insurance Companies Handle Delayed Injury Claims
Insurance companies are often skeptical of claims for injuries that don’t appear right away after a car accident. They may argue that the injury isn’t connected to the crash, especially if there’s a delay in getting a medical exam. This is why it’s so important to see a doctor as soon as you notice any new symptoms.
When you do file a claim for a delayed injury, the insurance company will look for a few things. They’ll check the timeline between the accident and your first doctor visit for that injury. They’ll also review all your medical records to see if there’s a clear link between the crash and your diagnosis. If they can’t find a direct connection, they might deny the claim or offer a low settlement.
Having a good medical record is the best way to deal with this. A doctor’s diagnosis that links your injury to the accident can make your claim much stronger. Without this, it’s very difficult to prove that the crash caused your delayed pain or other symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Hidden Injuries
You should see a doctor as soon as you experience any delayed symptoms after a car accident.
Even if you think the pain is minor, it’s better to get a medical opinion. Some conditions, like internal bleeding, can be life-threatening if they’re not caught early. A doctor can diagnose your condition and create a treatment plan.
You should seek medical attention as soon as you notice any new pain, stiffness, or other unusual symptoms. This is important for your health and any potential legal claims. A doctor can diagnose your condition and create a record that connects your injuries to the accident.
Acting quickly is a key step to protecting yourself. Waiting too long to see a doctor can exacerbate an injury. It can also make it harder to prove to an insurance company that the accident caused your injuries.
Protecting Your Legal Rights with Delayed Symptoms
If you find yourself with a delayed injury, here’s what you should do:
1. See a Doctor Right Away
Get a complete medical evaluation as soon as you notice any new pain or symptom. Tell the doctor about the crash and when your symptoms started. This medical record is the most important piece of evidence.
2. Follow Medical Advice
Go to all your follow-up appointments, physical therapy sessions, and take all prescribed medications. Following your doctor’s orders shows that your injury is serious and that you are committed to your recovery.
3. Document Everything
Keep a detailed journal of your pain, symptoms, and how your injury is affecting your daily life. Note any days you missed from work or activities you can no longer do. Keep all receipts for medical bills, prescriptions, and other costs related to your injury.
4. Talk to a Lawyer
The legal process for a delayed injury claim can be difficult. An experienced lawyer can help you build a strong case by gathering medical records, working with medical experts, and negotiating with the insurance company. They can also make sure you do not miss any legal deadlines.
Contact an Experienced Montgomery Car Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies are often hesitant to accept claims for delayed pain after an accident.
They may argue that your injury isn’t from the crash, especially if you didn’t go to the doctor right away. This is where an experienced Montgomery car accident lawyer at Hunter | Everage can help. We know how to prove the link between your crash and your injuries.
When an insurance company tries to deny or undervalue your claim, we are ready to fight for you. We can negotiate on your behalf to get you the money you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.
If you have been in a car accident in Montgomery and are now experiencing unexpected pain, contact us at 704-377-9157 for a free consultation. We will discuss your situation and explain your legal options.