Chris Hammons | December 20, 2024 | Car Accidents
You may initially walk away from a car accident without apparent injuries or pain. However, just because you do not feel pain immediately doesn’t mean you’re unharmed. Many car accident injuries lead to symptoms that appear hours, days, or even weeks later. But what should you do if you experience delayed pain after an accident?
Why Does Delayed Pain Happen After an Accident?
The stress and adrenaline we experience when injured can mask symptoms of some injuries. This may make you feel fine after an accident, even if you are actually injured. The pain may appear in hours or days once the adrenaline and endorphins subside. Some injuries may also trigger inflammation and swelling, which can develop gradually and lead to delayed discomfort and pain.
Common Car Accident Injuries That May Cause Delayed Pain
Certain types of injuries from car accidents are more commonly associated with delayed pain and other symptoms.
Some common examples include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash may cause delayed neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness after an accident.
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Concussions and TBIs may cause headaches, confusion, memory loss, nausea, and sensitivity to light days or even weeks after an accident.
- Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries can damage muscles, ligaments, and tendons, causing pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion within hours or days of your accident.
- Herniated discs: Herniated discs may cause back pain, leg pain, tingling, or numbness.
- Internal bleeding: Organ damage may cause internal bleeding and abdominal pain, dizziness, or fainting.
It is always recommended to seek medical attention after an accident, even if your injuries seem minor. A medical professional can help diagnose injuries before delayed pain and other symptoms appear.
Steps to Take If You Experience Delayed Pain After an Accident
You should keep track of how you feel after an accident. If you begin to experience delayed pain or other symptoms, even if they appear days or weeks later, you should:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Delayed pain can be a sign of serious injury. Get a medical evaluation and let your doctor know that you were recently in an accident. Medical documentation can help link your injury to the accident, which can strengthen your personal injury claim.
2. Document Your Symptoms and Pain Progression
Keep a detailed record of your symptoms. Pay attention to when they began and how they affect your daily life. Note any changes or worsening of symptoms as well, as this can be valuable for your doctor or lawyer.
3. Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan
Adhere to your doctor’s treatment plan, which may include taking medication and attending physical therapy or follow-up appointments. Ignoring medical advice can make it harder to recover. It may also be used against you to argue that your injuries and pain are not as serious as you claim. This could potentially limit your compensation.
4. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in OKC
A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process after a car accident that causes you to experience delayed pain. They can evaluate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court proceedings.
The insurer may try to argue that delayed pain is unrelated to your accident or tied to a pre-existing condition. However, a personal injury lawyer will fight to counter these arguments with medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence.
Experiencing Delayed Pain After a Car Accident? Contact an Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer Today
Experiencing delayed pain after a car accident is common, but it may indicate serious injuries. Be sure to seek medical attention immediately, document your symptoms, and consult an Oklahoma City car accident lawyer to protect your health and legal rights. If you or a loved one has been injured, schedule a free consultation with our personal injury team today.
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our law office is located in Oklahoma City.
We proudly serve Oklahoma County, OK, and its surrounding areas:
Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers – OKC
1332 SW 89th St,
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
(405) 497-0480
