My Injuries After a Car Crash Were Delayed, Can I File a Claim?

Not all car accident injuries show up right away, especially if the car accident was not severe. Find out how to file a claim when your injuries are delayed.

Not all car accident injuries show up right away, especially if the car accident wasn’t severe. It isn’t uncommon for people in a minor car accident to be unaware of their injuries for days and even weeks. Here are a few guidelines to help ensure you get the compensation you deserve if your injuries are delayed.

You went food shopping after work. You pulled out of your parking spot and started driving toward the street. As you were driving, another car was backing up and slammed right into you. You got out of the car and exchanged information. You weren’t in any pain so you went home thinking you didn’t suffer any injuries. 

A few weeks later, you started feeling pain in your neck. You went to your doctor and were diagnosed with whiplash. Now what?

Is it too late to file a claim? 

No, it isn’t too late to file a claim.

Car Accident Injuries that are Sometimes Delayed

• Occasionally injuries from a car crash are delayed, which is why it’s essential to go to the doctor shortly after a car accident. Below are a few injuries to look for after an accident.
• Headaches-headaches can begin to show up weeks after an accident. You should pay close attention to where the headache is located and how severe it is. A headache can be a sign of whiplash, a spinal cord injury, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Neck or shoulder pain-whiplash can begin to show in your neck and shoulder. In some cases, these symptoms can take days or weeks to show.
• Back pain-it may be surprising, but you may start to feel back pain days after an auto accident.
• Emotional pain and suffering: A car crash is a traumatic experience that can cause psychological damage that could impact your daily life. Some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD can become quite serious and should be treated by a medical professional.

When to Sign a Release of Liability Form

The insurance company of the at-fault driver will be anxious to have you sign a release of liability form. They are aware that some injuries don’t show up right away, and if they have you sign this form early it will be in their best interest, not yours. The form will waive any future claims for injuries or damage. This is why it’s important to see a doctor before you sign a release form to find out if you have any injuries that aren’t apparent. Never sign a release form before you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.

See a Doctor and Get a Full Evaluation

You should always see a doctor after an auto accident. You may have injuries you’re not aware of yet. Your adrenaline can mask the pain. You may not be in pain immediately after the accident but that doesn’t mean you don’t have injuries. Your doctor will examine you and you may need an X-ray or two to determine if you have any injuries. It’s rare not to have any injuries after an accident. 

Document Everything

It’s important to have a record of every doctor's appointment, test, and diagnosis that was made after the accident.

If you have been in an accident and you have injuries, you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering.