What are the Signs of Delayed Car Accident Injuries?
Each year, more than 6.2 million people suffer an injury in collisions. Many experience catastrophic injuries that inhibit them from performing daily tasks, including working or taking care of loved ones. If you have been injured in a wreck, you may be facing a pile of medical bills and a growing worry about your financial security.
If you are in a crash but are not exhibiting any signs of injury, do not assume that you are in the clear. While some injuries may be readily apparent, others may take a while to be fully realized. Once symptoms appear, it is imperative that you seek medical attention right away.
In this blog, our Mt. Carmel car accident lawyers share their advice on five symptoms that indicate delayed injuries and how to collect compensation for your losses.
Nausea or Vertigo
Nausea may be a sign of delayed injury. It may appear several hours or days after a crash, and it may be present alongside vertigo. Nausea or vertigo may point to a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which involves a bump or blow to the head that disrupts normal brain function. Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness may be an indication of a serious condition requiring medical intervention.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain or discomfort may be a sign that you sustained organ damage or are bleeding internally. Signs of internal bleeding include fatigue, weakness, or dizziness. Internal bleeding is known as the “silent killer” because these symptoms may go unnoticed. If you are experiencing sudden onset abdominal pain, you should visit the nearest emergency room.
Numbness or Tingling
If numbness or tingling presents after your car accident, this may be a sign of nerve damage, a herniated disc, or a spinal cord injury. Numbness or weakness could also be a sign of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition which involves injury to the nerves outside your brain or spinal cord. Individuals suffering from peripheral neuropathy will typically also experience pain and a pins-and-needle feeling in their extremities. If you choose not to be treated, this could result in long-term complications, including paralysis or permanent sensation impairment.
Headaches
Severe or sudden onset headaches may be a sign of a TBI or spinal cord injury. A spinal headache after a car accident may be a sign of autonomic dysreflexia, which is an overreaction of your autonomic nervous system (which controls your breathing and heart rate). This often occurs after a traumatic event. Autonomic dysreflexia will typically be accompanied by high blood pressure, a slower-than-normal heart rate (bradycardia), excessive sweating, nausea, and vomiting. It is a potentially life-threatening condition, so it is paramount that you seek medical attention immediately.
Back Pain
Sudden and severe back pain may be an indication of a herniated disc or spinal cord injury. If the pain is located primarily in the lower back or is sharp in nature, this could be a sign of kidney damage. Kidney damage may also be accompanied by fever, vomiting, or groin pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be seen by a medical professional.
Aggressive Representation from Our Mt. Carmel Car Accident Lawyers
If you have been injured in a car accident, you will need to provide proof of accident-related losses to collect compensation. The two main compensable damages for accident victims include lost wages and medical expenses. (Lost wages may be reflected through pre-accident and post-accident pay stubs). If your vehicle sustained damage, then you may be entitled to compensation for any repair costs or the car’s replacement value.
At Fanelli, Evans, & Patel, P.C., our car accident lawyers understand the financial and emotional struggle of trying to regain your strength while keeping your head above water. Our team of professionals will assist you in submitting your claim and negotiating for the amount you deserve. We will do whatever it takes to help you recover maximum compensation and alleviate some of the stress you are feeling.
Injured? Contact Our Mt. Carmel Car Accident Lawyers Today
Car accident injuries may become apparent hours or days following the incident, resulting in complications from not receiving immediate treatment. At Fanelli, Evans, & Patel, P.C., our legal team knows that you are doing everything within your power to make a full recovery. Let us assist you in the process. To discuss your case with one of our Mt. Carmel car accident attorneys at no cost, contact us online today or call us at 570-286-6500.