If you have been involved in a car crash, you might think you are fine and escaped injury. However, sometimes injuries and complications do not appear until several days after the crash. A car accident can impact you both physically and mentally.
It is always wise to get checked by a medical professional right after an accident, so you have documentation that you wanted to get care early if anything was wrong. Being checked early can also help you with any follow up care and guide providers in the direction they need to go for your situation.
Symptoms Days Later
It is not uncommon for symptoms to be non-existent until several days after the crash. Some symptoms that might appear later include:
- Numbness or tingling
- Neck or shoulder pain and stiffness
- Back pain
- Headaches
- Changes in physical functioning
- Personality changes
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Abdominal swelling and/or pain
These seven symptoms are often referred to as the delayed injury symptoms of a car accident. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should get immediate care because your injury could be worse than you imagine. Many of these injuries need care right away to ensure a full recovery or to address the matter before it worsens.
Maintain Documentation to Support Your Claim
To have a successful personal injury claim, you must be able to prove your injuries and damages. Documentation is the key to a successful personal injury claim, so here are some pieces of evidence you need to gather and keep.
- Accident report
- Photos of any vehicle damage
- Medical records
- Medical bills
- Proof of missed work and lost wages
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Proof of missed events and the inability to participate in activities
- Photos of visible injuries
- Journal your daily pain levels and progress
Remember, documentation is essential to having a successful case. Maintain a file that you can share with your personal injury attorney, so it can be properly reviewed and considered.
Follow Up Medical Care
You should always continue with your medical care. Without the proper follow-up care, it is difficult to determine the severity of your injury. Not keeping your doctor appointments and following doctor’s orders can result in your personal injury claim not being denied.
You want to be compensated for your damages, so make sure you follow through at your end. After all, a back injury might require ongoing physical therapy or chiropractic care. You want to make sure you recover and get the care you need, so you are not needlessly suffering.
Consult with a personal injury attorney
If you have been injured in a car accident, or if a car accident left you suffering from symptoms several days later, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. With the help of a lawyer, your odds of a successful claim increase significantly.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today, so you can get your claim on track. An attorney will review the details and determine the best way to proceed.
