Some people will know they are injured right after the accident. Lacerations, fractures and other injuries are more evident because of the pain and/or blood. However, others won’t know because they don’t show or feel any immediate sign of injury.
It is not uncommon for injury-related pain to be delayed after an accident if anything; you may not realize that you have a severe injury until later on. Often, this happens because your body gets to produce more chemicals – endorphins and adrenaline – which mask the pain and give you more energy. The pain only sets in when the effects of these chemicals wear down, and this can be days or even weeks after the accident. Some common injuries that take longer to show include soft tissue injuries, concussion, back pain, headaches, pain in the shoulders or neck, abdominal pain, tingling, numbness, whiplash, traumatic brain injury, and emotional pain and suffering.
So what happens next?
This article provides some guidelines to help you get adequate compensation for your delayed injuries.
Seek medical attention
As a rule of thumb, you should see a doctor immediately after the crash; this is irrespective of whether you feel pain and discomfort or are perfectly fine. The doctor is best positioned to assess your condition. They will also offer advice on how you should monitor potential injuries like the red flags to look out for. If you are planning to file a claim for compensation, then you want to note down the fact that you got medical care within a reasonable time after the crash. Taking a long time before going to the hospital will give the defendants a strong argument point, as they will state that you weren’t as injured.
Don’t be in a rush to settle
After the accident, the other driver’s insurance company will try to reach out and offer some kind of a deal as compensation. Do not be in a hurry to settle. Keep in mind that insurance companies are in it for profit, so, it’s apparent that they will try to underpay you. In fact, there are other cases where the insurance companies refuse to pay altogether. So, instead of signing right away, wait until your caregiver has thoroughly assessed you before considering signing.
Contact a personal injury lawyer
The best idea would be to work with one of the best personal injury lawyers in Seattle because they will represent your best interest and make sure that you get adequate compensation. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company’s lawyers. They will also represent you in the court of law if you fail to reach an amicable agreement. They’ll gather all the medical records and police reports to make sure you have a strong case.
Regardless of how you feel after an accident, the best course of action is to get a medical checkup. It is also equally important to be alert for delayed symptoms. Sometimes, severe injuries won’t cause symptoms for hours or even days following the crash.