What If I Have Delayed Symptoms After A Car Accident?

Discover how to navigate delayed symptoms after a car accident and seek justice with the help of The Mike Hostilo Law Firm.
Published:  September 28, 2023

Introduction

You've been in a car accident, and initially, you feel unharmed. It's not uncommon. But here's the twist: delayed symptoms can emerge weeks or even months down the line, catching you off guard.

So, what happens then?

People recount their accident, labeling it the other person's fault, and claim not to be injured.

Yet, as time passes discomfort sets in, mobility becomes a challenge, and they realize that the accident did indeed leave a mark.

If you've been in a car accident and the aftermath brings delayed symptoms you're not alone and you're not without options.

The timing of your symptoms doesn't diminish your right to seek compensation for the injuries you've sustained.

Let's explore more about delayed symptoms after a car accident.

A doctor is looking at a patient's neck. A delayed symptoms after a car accident.

What If I Have Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident?

Well, you know what? A lot of times people get in a car accident to which someone will ask, “Was it your fault?”

And they'll say, no, it's the other person's fault. That will typically get followed up with, “Were you injured?” This is usually met with a simple “no”.

Then almost like clockwork something like a month goes by and they start hurting or they try to get out of bed and they are immobilized by excruciating pain.

So if you have delayed symptoms after a car accident, you have a claim.

If you've been injured in a car accident but you don't feel it until later, you have a claim.

What Signs Should You Look For?

In this section, we’ll explore six of the most common symptoms associated with delayed injuries and what injuries they could be associated with. All of these symptoms should be taken seriously and seeking prompt medical attention can not only protect your health but also help you build a strong case if you decide to pursue legal action.

1. Headaches

Linked to concussions or other TBIs (traumatic brain injuries) and whiplash.

Known as post-traumatic headaches, collision-related headaches are common and can occur immediately after the accident or take hours, or even days, to develop. During a car collision, your head may collide with the interior of the vehicle, inflicting neck and head injuries. The collision's impact can also cause your brain to shift inside your skull, resulting in a  traumatic brain injury.

2. Neck Pain

Whiplash along with other soft tissue injuries, as well as damage to the spinal cord, have all been linked to this condition.

Whiplash is a sort of soft tissue injury that happens when the head is rapidly wrenched back and forth like a whip, putting severe strain on the muscles and tissue of the neck and back. This type of injury is common in car accidents where sudden stops can cause the body’s momentum to move forward, while the head snaps backward.

3. Abdominal Pain

Linked to internal bleeding and organ damage.

The impact of a car accident can induce blunt abdominal damage, which can be fatal if not treated swiftly. Experiencing abdominal pain or swelling after an accident is a medical emergency that requires immediate action, especially if you notice any other concerning symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, headaches, or bruising.

4. Back Pain

It has been linked to slipping or herniated discs, compression fractures or cervical vertebral fractures, and spinal cord injury.

When a collision puts tension on the backbone, it can result in a range of injuries to the spine ranging from minor to severe. Lower back pain is particularly common after a motor vehicle accident, and it can be indicative of soft tissue injuries like herniated discs.

5. Numbness and Tingling

It has been linked to nerve injury, traumatic brain traumas, and spinal cord injuries.

Numbness, tingling, or even lack of feeling in the affected area might be caused by spinal cord damage, herniated discs, or nerve damage. Such signs can be precursors of immobility or other ongoing neurological disorders in some circumstances.

6. Behavioral or Emotional Changes

TBIs ranging from moderate to severe, as well as mental problems such as PTSD, are all linked.

Changes like this after a car accident can indicate both physical and psychological harm.

How Can You Prove Any Injuries When Symptoms Are Delayed?

The compassionate attorneys at The Mike Hostilo Law Firm will show you how to prove your injury from delayed symptoms after a car accident.

The most important thing is to get medical assistance as soon as you detect any symptoms, even if they don't develop for days or weeks after the injury. Delaying treatment can have a substantial impact on your capacity to receive the reimbursement you deserve.

To demonstrate a link within the accident and your symptoms, your legal team must be able to show a link connecting the accident and the symptoms you are experiencing.

They may rely on medical documentation, testimony from experts, and other proof to demonstrate that your injuries were caused by the accident.

In the United States, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for compensation, but this timeline may vary depending on the circumstances of your case.

To avoid losing your chance to obtain compensation for all of your damages, consult with an accident attorney as soon as you realize you've been injured.

Proving the extent of delayed injury symptoms can be a challenge, but it is possible with the help of a trustworthy and competent legal team.

Don't let delayed symptoms from a car accident catch you off guard. Reach out to The Mike Hostilo Law Firm today for a free consultation. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.

Whether it's headaches, neck pain, or any other delayed symptoms, we can help with all types of cases. Your well-being is our priority.

Final Words

In the aftermath of a car accident, it's not uncommon for the initial shock and adrenaline to mask potential injuries.

The true impact of the accident might reveal itself days, weeks, or even months later in the form of delayed symptoms.

These unexpected physical and emotional challenges can be overwhelming, but they don't have to define your recovery journey.

Remember, if you find yourself facing delayed symptoms after a car accident, you're not alone. It's essential to prioritize your health and well-being.

Seeking medical attention as soon as you notice any signs of discomfort is crucial not only for your physical recovery but also for building a strong case should you decide to pursue legal action.

Whether it's headaches, neck pain, numbness, or any other delayed symptom, seeking justice and compensation for your injuries is your right.

Remember, the timeline for filing a claim varies, and it's essential to consult with a car accident lawyer promptly.

USA law typically allows two years from the date of the accident to file a claim, but individual circumstances might impact this timeframe.

Don't let the window of opportunity close - reach out to Mike Hostilo Law Firm today to protect your rights and secure your future.

The Mike Hostilo Law Firm

33 Park of Commerce Blvd
Savannah, GA
31405
(844) 203-9338
contactus@hostilolaw.com
https://mikehostilolawfirm.com/cms/

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Locations - South CarolinaBeaufort
Law Offices - AlabamaPhenix City
*"Contingent attorneys” "No fee unless you win or collect" and "You only pay us if we win your personal injury claim" fees refer only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.

Any result the lawyer or law firm may achieve on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients.

Mike Hostilo is not licensed to practice law in South Carolina.
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