Common Delayed Injuries After a Car Crash

After a car crash in Tampa, there are many injuries that are not readily apparent. Soft tissue damage, concussions, and even spinal issues can all take hours, days, or even weeks to exhibit symptoms. Without medical treatment, these injuries can become worse, which is not only a threat to your health but can also weaken your legal claim. Below, our Tampa car accident attorney outlines some of the most common delayed injuries after a crash, and the importance of seeking medical treatment for them.

What Delayed Injuries are Common After a Car Accident? 

There are many injuries that do not show symptoms right away after a car accident. The most common of these include:

• Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the muscles and ligaments in the neck are strained due to a sudden jolt that causes the neck to move rapidly back and forth, like a whip. Stiffness, neck pain, and headaches may not appear until several days later.
• Concussions: Concussions are caused by a sudden jolt or strike to the head. Confusion, dizziness, headaches, and memory issues are not often apparent until hours or days afterward.
• Soft tissue damage: Torn ligaments, tendons, and muscles can gradually become inflamed over time. Symptoms include bruising, swelling, and soreness that becomes worse over time.
• Spinal issues: An impact can trigger spinal misalignment and herniated discs. Tingling, numbness, and back pain can all escalate after an accident.

The above are just a few examples of injuries that are commonly delayed after car accidents. To protect your health, and any future legal action you may take, it is critical to seek medical attention right away.

Why are Injuries Delayed After a Crash?

Some injuries are delayed after a crash because they cause inflammation. Spinal issues and whiplash are just two examples of this. The inflammation may be very minor at first but ultimately result in a very serious issue.

After a car accident, adrenaline will also flood your system. This is a natural painkiller that ensures you stay alert and keep moving. Once the adrenaline rush wears off in a few hours or even days later, the pain sets in and you realize just how seriously you are hurt.

The Importance of Seeking Prompt Medical Attention

Seeking prompt medical attention after a crash is of the utmost importance for your overall health. When delayed injuries are not diagnosed right away, you cannot obtain the necessary treatment. A minor whiplash injury may become debilitating because you continued to move your neck, further damaging the soft tissues. Or, an undiagnosed concussion can result in long-term cognitive issues.

Seeking prompt medical attention can also make it harder for the insurance company to deny your injuries. Medical documentation proves the nature and severity of your injuries and ties them directly to the accident. Insurance companies cannot say that something else caused your injuries, or that you were not hurt at all because you did not see a physician.

Our Car Accident Attorney in Tampa Can Help You Secure Medical Treatment

If you have been hurt in a crash, our Tampa car accident attorney at Moore Law can advise you of the options that can help you obtain the immediate medical attention you need. We will also guide you through the claim process and help ensure you receive the full settlement you deserve. Call us today at 813-510-5400 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.