In the immediate aftermath of a sudden emergency, the truth can be hard to find for Pottsville residents. Confusion and chaos can reign in these circumstances, not only as to what caused the incident to occur, but in how serious the event may be.
This is certainly true when it comes to the aftermath of a car crash. In the hours and days after the accident, there are often many questions about who caused the accident and how it happened. There can also be uncertainty about the extent of injuries suffered by those involved in the crash.
Last week, for example, this blog discussed a recent accident involving singer Diana Ross. Ross declined immediate hospitalization for the accident, but she complained of head and neck pain and stated she would seek further treatment on her own.
Certain types of injuries, like neck injuries, can be more difficult to diagnose than others. Pain might be fleeting in the moments after the crash, or it might not be present at all. However, days or weeks later, the person may start seeing increased neck pain that lets them know something is not right.
There are multiple tests that can be done to check whether a person has a neck injury. Physicians typically look for numbness and weakness, as well as the person’s range of motion. Imaging tests like x-rays, a CT scan or a MRI may be done to reveal areas that may be damaged. These tests could show structural problems that the person is unaware of because he or she does not have symptoms.
Ultimately, it is important for individuals to understand the full extent of injuries they may have suffered after an accident. Damages can be recovered in a personal injury action for medical expenses, pain and suffering and other matters, but the full extent of injuries must be demonstrated to recover these damages.
Source: Mayo Clinic, “Tests and diagnosis,” accessed on April 23, 2016