A car accident cannot be predicted, and the driver usually experiences some sort of shock after an accident. Car accidents can produce personal injury that is not always readily apparent at the scene. This is why it is always prudent to accept medical attention if it is offered at the scene of the accident. It is always a good idea to seek out medical attention that day or shortly thereafter when a person is not certain of their injuries after an accident.
Some injuries that can occur include the following:
- Whiplash or cervical strain. A cervical strain is a common injury after a car accident, and it may not be obvious until hours or days after the accident occurs. This is an injury to the neck that occurs when the head snaps forward and back in an accident. This happens most often when a driver is rear-ended.
- Herniated spinal disk. This is when a disk slips out of place in the spine as a result of a car accident. This can irritate the nerve and cause numbness or pain in the legs or arms. This is also an injury that can manifest after the accident.
- Internal bleeding. This can be a serious injury that is not always apparent at the scene of an accident. Symptoms can show a few days after the accident and could include seizures, fainting, dizziness, abdominal pain, and headaches.
- Abdominal swelling or pain. This could be a sign of internal injuries to the bowel or intestines. If a person experiences abdominal pain or swelling, they should be evaluated on an emergency basis.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Often people may experience some sort of psychological issues after a car accident. Whether or not the person had physical injuries, they could still experience PTSD. It can lead to insomnia, depression, nightmares, anxiety, or the inability to ride or drive in a car.
- Concussion. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that results after a blow to the head. A concussion can occur when the brain rocks back and forth inside the skull. Certain symptoms can point to a concussion, such as blurred vision, balance issues, sensitivity to light and noise, dizziness, nausea, low energy, increased sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and confusion. Treatment can include physical and mental rehabilitation for recovery.
Any time a person is in a car accident, it is always wise to get a full medical examination within the first 72 hours. Symptoms can still show up in an injured person even after that period; therefore, it is important to be in contact with a doctor if new symptoms arise. It is important to note that a person usually has about two years from the date of the accident to bring a personal injury lawsuit.
Egg Harbor Township Car Accident Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm can Assist if You Have Experienced an Injury after a Car Accident
As noted, injuries after a car accident may not always be readily apparent. The longer it takes for an injury to show up, the less likely a victim may be able to bring a lawsuit. If your doctor says the injury could be related to your car accident, it is important to seek legal help. The Egg Harbor Township car accident lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm can provide legal assistance and inform you of any potential claims you could bring related to your car accident. Call us today at 609-926-3300 or contact us online for a free consultation. With an office in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we assist accident victims in Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and across South Jersey.