How Long After a Car Accident Can Injuries Appear?

Car accidents can cause injuries ranging from bruises and soft tissue injuries to severe brain and spinal cord injuries. While some car accident injuries display symptoms quickly or immediately, others may not be apparent without a medical checkup. How long after a car accident can injuries appear? It depends on the type of injury and its severity. Some serious and potentially life-threatening injuries may not display symptoms right away, highlighting the importance of seeking medical care immediately after a crash.

What Injuries May Have Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident?

Delayed symptoms after a car accident can lead to unexpected complications and risks. While some injuries show immediate signs, others might take hours, days, or weeks to reveal symptoms. Failing to recognize these hidden injuries can result in long-term health issues. In some cases, it could be a matter of life or death.

Here are some common car accident injuries with delayed symptoms, how long they may take to appear, and the risks of not getting medical attention immediately. Seeking prompt medical care after an accident, even when you feel fine and aren’t showing immediate symptoms, can catch these hidden injuries early and reduce the risk of serious complications:

• Whiplash—Whiplash occurs when the neck forcefully jerks back and forth, a common occurrence in car accidents. Symptoms like neck pain, stiffness, and headaches may not appear until 24 to 48 hours after the collision. Untreated whiplash can lead to chronic neck pain and reduced range of motion, affecting one’s ability to perform daily activities.
• Concussions – Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries that may not show symptoms immediately. Some people don’t experience confusion, headaches, dizziness, or memory issues until hours or even days after the crash. Without proper treatment, concussions can lead to long-term cognitive problems, mood changes, and even personality shifts.
• Internal Bleeding – Internal bleeding is a serious condition that may not immediately have apparent symptoms. Individuals may feel pain or dizziness, or they may experience swelling within hours or days after the accident. Left untreated, internal bleeding can lead to life-threatening complications, including organ failure and shock.
• Soft Tissue Injuries – Signs of injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, such as sprains and strains, can develop gradually. These injuries might cause soreness, swelling, or reduced movement a day or two after the accident. Without timely treatment, soft tissue injuries can lead to persistent pain and joint instability.
• Herniated Discs – A herniated disc occurs when the cushioning between spinal vertebrae slips out of place. Symptoms such as back pain, numbness, or tingling in the limbs may not show until several days after the impact. Left untreated, herniated discs can cause long-term back issues and nerve damage.

How Seeking Immediate Treatment Can Detect Invisible Car Accident Injuries

Seeking medical treatment as soon as possible after a car accident can help detect injuries that don’t show symptoms right away. Many injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, and internal bleeding, may not cause pain or discomfort immediately but can worsen over time and cause significant complications if left untreated. Doctors can use imaging tools like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to identify injuries that may not yet be causing symptoms. By thoroughly examining, you can catch early signs of injury and start treatment promptly.

Early diagnosis also strengthens your insurance and legal claims arising from the accident. Documentation from doctors detailing your injuries and treatment establishes a clear connection between the accident and your injuries. If symptoms appear days or weeks later, this early medical evidence can prevent disputes from insurance companies or other parties who may otherwise try to argue that your injuries aren’t serious or unrelated to the collision.

Additionally, timely treatment can reduce the likelihood of long-term health problems. For example, early intervention for a potential whiplash injury can prevent chronic neck pain, while identifying a mild concussion early can reduce the risk of lasting cognitive issues. Taking immediate steps to get checked after a car accident can protect your health and legal rights.

Contact a Lakewood Car Accident Lawyer Today

Suppose you suffered injuries in an auto collision in Lakewood. In that case, you need an experienced Lakewood car accident lawyer to hold the at-fault driver accountable and fight for your deserved compensation. The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs has served clients in Lakewood and surrounding communities for over 70 years and is prepared to manage your claim at no upfront cost. Contact us today at (253) 588-6696 for a free consultation.

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