Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. Beyond the immediate impact, there can be hidden dangers that might not be obvious until time has passed. Knowing these potential risks can ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.
What Are the Signs of Delayed Injuries?
Following a car accident, adrenaline can mask pain and injury symptoms; some problems may not manifest until days or weeks after the accident. Delayed injuries and mild symptoms can catch you off guard and potentially worsen if left untreated. Watch out for:
- Persistent headaches: Headaches can be a sign of concussions or other head injuries. Even if you did not hit your head during the accident, the force of the impact can still cause a concussion.
- Neck or shoulder pain: Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, resulting from the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck. Symptoms may include stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion.
- Back pain: Back injuries, like herniated discs or spinal cord damage, can cause persistent pain that worsens over time.
- Numbness or tingling: These sensations can indicate nerve damage, which may not become apparent until days after the accident.
If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, seek medical attention promptly. Delayed injuries can have long-term consequences if left untreated, and documenting your injuries is vital for potential legal claims.
What Are the Risks of Delaying Medical Treatment?
Many people make the mistake of delaying medical treatment after a car accident when their injuries seem minor. Here are some risks of delaying treatment:
- Worsening of injuries: What seems like a minor injury can worsen over time when left untreated. Delaying medical treatment can result in prolonged pain and suffering, as well as potential complications.
- Difficulty proving causation: If you delay seeking treatment, insurance companies may argue that your injuries were unrelated to the car accident. Prompt medical attention creates a clear link between your injuries and the accident, making it easier to pursue compensation.
- Loss of compensation: There are strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims after a car accident. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to receive compensation.
To protect your health and legal rights, always seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident. Documenting your injuries and following your doctor’s treatment plan will strengthen any potential legal claims you may have.
How Can a Lawyer Help Protect My Rights After a Car Accident?
An experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation. They have extensive knowledge of personal injury law and experience with these kinds of cases. A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident, gathering evidence to support your claim. That includes obtaining police reports, collecting witness statements, and consulting with professionals who reconstruct accident scenes.
Our Atlantic City Car Lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm Are Familiar With the Hidden Dangers of Car Accidents
If you have been injured in a car accident, do not wait to seek medical attention or legal help. Contact our experienced Atlantic City car accident lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm for a free consultation, and we will explain your options. Call 609-926-3300 or complete our online form. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we help clients in South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury.