What to Do If Injuries Appear After a Car Accident

After a car accident, you might feel fine at first—adrenaline and shock often mask pain. However, injuries can sometimes take days, weeks, or even months to show up. This delay can complicate both your recovery and any potential personal injury claim if you're unprepared. Knowing how to handle delayed injuries is crucial for protecting your health and legal rights.

Common Delayed-Onset Injuries After a Car Accident

Soft Tissue Injuries

Damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons—known as soft tissue injuries—often doesn't show immediate symptoms. Pain, swelling, and limited mobility might only appear days after the accident, and these injuries can be difficult to diagnose without medical imaging.

Whiplash

A sudden jolt can cause whiplash, a neck injury where symptoms like stiffness, headaches, and pain may not surface for 24-48 hours. Despite its delayed onset, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic pain.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

A blow or jolt to the head can disrupt brain function, causing symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, or memory loss that may take weeks to develop. Undiagnosed TBIs can seriously impact your long-term well-being.

Steps to Protect Your Health After a Car Accident

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, a doctor can detect hidden injuries and prevent complications.
2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any physical or emotional changes in the days and weeks after the crash.
3. Follow Medical Advice: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s treatment plan.

Why Seeing a Doctor Right Away Matters

Skipping medical care can impact both your health and your personal injury claim:

• Early Diagnosis: Doctors can identify hidden injuries, reducing the risk of long-term damage.
• Documentation: Medical records provide critical evidence if you need to file a claim.
• Insurance Claims: Delays in seeking treatment can make it harder to prove your injuries were caused by the accident.

Delayed Injuries and Personal Injury Claims

Insurance companies often try to downplay delayed-onset injuries. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate these challenges, gather necessary evidence, and ensure you receive fair compensation.

FAQs About Delayed Injuries

How long after a car accident can injuries show up?
Injuries might surface hours, days, or even weeks after the accident. For instance, whiplash symptoms often appear within 48 hours, while traumatic brain injuries can take longer.

Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine?
Absolutely. Hidden injuries can worsen without treatment, and medical records will support your claim.

What are signs of delayed injuries to watch for?

• Persistent headaches
• Neck or back pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Reduced mobility
• Mood swings or difficulty concentrating

Can I still file a claim if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
Yes, but it’s more challenging. Seek medical care as soon as possible and consult a personal injury lawyer to strengthen your case.

What compensation can I recover for delayed injuries?
You might be eligible for:

• Medical expenses (including future treatments)
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident

If you’re experiencing delayed symptoms after a car crash, don’t wait to seek help. Consulting a personal injury lawyer ensures you have the support and guidance to secure fair compensation.

For a free consultation, contact Davis Injury Lawyers at (313) 364-8970 or use our online form. We’re here to help you protect your health and your future.