What Are Common Car Crash Injuries with Delayed Symptoms?

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, it is important to seek immediate medical attention, even if you do not feel pain or symptoms at the time of the crash. This is because some injuries can have delayed symptoms, meaning that they may not be apparent until days, weeks, or even months after the accident. In this article we answer the question, “What are common car crash injuries with delayed symptoms?”

If your car accident was caused by the negligence of another driver, our car accident lawyers can help you seek compensation for your injuries with delayed symptoms.

What Are Delayed Symptoms After a Car Crash?

Delayed symptoms are health issues that may not appear immediately after an accident but develop hours, days, or even weeks later. These can include headaches, back pain, chronic pain, or emotional distress.

Why Do Some Serious Injuries Have Delayed Symptoms?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the body’s adrenaline response during a crash can mask pain and injury symptoms initially. It may take time for inflammation, swelling, or other underlying problems to manifest as physical symptoms.

What Types of Car Accident Injuries Commonly Have Delayed Symptoms?

Severe injuries from a car accident that commonly have delayed symptoms include whiplash, concussions, soft tissue injuries, internal organ damage, internal bleeding, and emotional trauma (such as PTSD).

Head Injuries

One of the most common types of injury with delayed symptoms after a car crash is a head injury. This can range from a mild concussion to a more serious traumatic brain injury (TBI). Symptoms of a head injury may include headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, changes in vision or hearing, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings. If left untreated, head injuries can lead to long-term complications—such as memory loss and cognitive impairment.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by the forceful back and forth movement of the head during an accident. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. These symptoms may not appear until days or weeks after the crash.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries refer to damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These types of injuries have delayed symptoms such as stiffness, soreness, and limited range of motion. Soft tissue injuries commonly produce back, neck, and shoulder pain.

Internal Injuries

In some cases, internal organs can be injured during a car crash. This can include damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, and other internal organs vulnerable in frontal and side-impact accidents. Delayed symptoms can include abdominal pain and bruising. If left untreated, these internal injuries can lead to serious complications and even death.

Internal Bleeding

Internal bleeding may also have delayed symptoms. This can occur when blood vessels are damaged during a car accident, and the bleeding is not apparent externally. Symptoms may include dizziness, weakness, abdominal pain, and bruising.

Emotional Trauma

In additional to suffering physical injuries, the emotional toll of a car crash can also have delayed mental health symptoms. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression after an accident. These symptoms may not appear until weeks or months later but can greatly impact a person’s daily life.

When Should I See a Doctor for Delayed Symptoms?

Consult a medical professional as soon as you notice pain, discomfort, or unusual symptoms, even if they appear days or weeks after the accident. Delaying could let injuries worsen or go unnoticed, leading to more serious issues. Prompt attention ensures proper medical treatment and documents any injuries for future reference.

Can Delayed Symptoms Impact Legal or Insurance Claims?

Yes, delayed symptoms can impact legal and insurance claims after a car accident. Insurers may argue that symptoms appearing later aren’t linked to the accident, so it’s crucial to document any delayed pain or discomfort right away. Proving these injuries requires strong medical evidence and regular follow-ups, which can help strengthen a compensation case.

Call The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, for Help

If you have experienced a car crash, it is essential to seek medical attention—even if you feel fine. Do not hesitate to consult an experienced car accident lawyer. We can review your case and explain your legal options for pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses.

Contact us today for a free consultation.