Uncovering Hidden Injuries: What You Need to Know After a Car Accident

Posted in Personal Injury on April 15, 2024

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you may think any injuries you sustained will be immediately apparent. However, this is not always the case. In fact, some injuries may take days or even weeks to fully manifest, leaving you with hidden and potentially serious health issues. These types of injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, can have serious long-term effects if not properly addressed.

At Soofer Law Group, our team is well-versed in dealing with car accident injuries and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help – let us handle the legal aspects while you focus on your recovery.

Why Don’t All Injuries Show Up Right Away?

When you’re in a car accident, your body instinctively goes into “fight or flight” mode, meaning your adrenaline levels skyrocket, which can actually temporarily mask pain and injuries. It’s your body’s natural way of helping you get through the immediate aftermath of a stressful situation. Also, some injuries – especially those related to soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and ligaments, or internal organs – might not show symptoms until swelling or bleeding increases over time. 

These types of injuries often require medical imaging, like X-rays or MRIs, to be fully recognized, which is why they might not be identified right after an accident occurs. This delay in symptom appearance is a big reason why it’s critical to get checked out by a healthcare professional, even if you feel okay initially. They can help uncover and diagnose any hidden injuries you might not be aware of, ensuring you get the necessary treatment as soon as possible.

What Are Common Hidden Injuries to Look Out For?

After a car accident, recognizing the signs of injuries that aren’t immediately obvious is key to ensuring your health and well-being. Here’s a look at some common hidden injuries that might not make themselves known right away: 

• Concussions or Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even if you don’t hit your head, the force of the crash can cause your brain to move inside your skull, leading to a concussion or more severe TBI. 
• Whiplash: This neck injury might not show symptoms immediately but can cause significant pain and stiffness in the days and weeks following an accident. 
• Internal Bleeding: Without external signs, internal bleeding can remain undetected but is life-threatening if not treated promptly. 
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons might not be visible on the surface but can result in chronic pain and mobility issues. 
• Psychological Injuries: It’s not just physical injuries you need to be aware of. Accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which might not be evident until some time has passed. 

Keeping an eye out for the symptoms of these injuries and seeking medical advice if you experience any discomfort, changes in mood or behavior, or unexplained pain is crucial. Remember, it’s better to be safe and get checked out than to overlook something that could become more serious over time.

How Can You Protect Yourself Legally?

After a car accident, protecting yourself legally starts with immediate medical attention. Seeing a doctor right away can help uncover hidden injuries while also creating a medical record of your condition post-accident. This documentation is crucial if you need to make a legal claim. 

Always report any accident to the police and gather as much evidence as possible at the scene, such as photos and witness contacts. This evidence, alongside your medical records, forms the foundation of any legal action you might take to seek compensation for your injuries.

Injured in an Accident? Speak With an Injury Lawyer From Soofer Law Group Today

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident and are dealing with hidden injuries, it’s time to get the support you deserve. At Soofer Law Group, our experienced team is ready to guide you through the legal process and help secure the compensation you need for your recovery. We understand how challenging this time can be and are committed to standing by your side every step of the way. 

Don’t navigate this difficult journey alone. Reach out to us by calling (310) 861-4058 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you on the path to healing and justice.