In the moments and hours after a New Orleans car accident, a victim can be in shock and overwhelmed by what just happened. Unfortunately, the shock and adrenaline can mask accident and injury symptoms immediately after a car crash. You may believe you are “okay” or “fine” after the crash when you actually sustained serious injury.
Our New Orleans car accident attorneys advise our clients to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car crash. Delaying medical treatment could cause the injury to become worse. A delay in medical treatment can also provide the insurance company for the other driver with an excuse to fight your accident claim. Therefore, see your doctor after a car accident, but especially if you begin to develop any of the following delayed symptoms after a car accident.
Symptoms That Might Not Be Immediately present After a Traffic Accident
- Back Pain
Back pain may begin as an ache because your muscles and ligaments were stretched and strained during the collision. However, back pain could also indicate a more serious injury, including damage to the spinal cord or vertebrae. See a doctor to determine if your back pain is typical soreness following a crash or a symptom of something much more severe.
- Neck Pain
Whiplash is a common injury after a car accident, especially a rear-end collision. However, you may not notice the limited range of motion and increasing pain until hours or days after the accident. While most cases of whiplash heal with time and rest, some severe whiplash cases can cause long-term impairments.
- Headaches
Headaches can be difficult to diagnose as a symptom because stress or a head injury could cause them. Even a mild brain injury can cause serious problems. If you suffer a headache after an accident, you should see a doctor immediately to rule out a TBI, blood clot, or other serious brain injury.
- Changes in personality or physical function
Changes in mood, personality, or physical function could be an indication of a traumatic injury or PTSD. The symptoms of a traumatic brain injury and other brain injuries may include changes in personality and physical function. If you suffer any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as quickly as possible.
- Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain after a car accident can be attributed to soreness. However, it can also be an indication of internal bleeding or severe damage to internal organs. If you suffer from abdominal pain after a car accident, it is best to see a doctor to rule out bleeding or damage. If ignored, the condition could be life-threatening.
Contact a New Orleans Car Accident Attorney
If you are injured in a traffic accident, you may be entitled to reimbursement for your losses and compensation for your injuries. However, an insurance adjuster is not going to explain your rights or protect your best interests.
For a free consultation to discuss your case, contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm by calling (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free case review with a New Orleans accident attorney.