Mississippi has the highest rate of road accident-related deaths in the United States. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that our state had a traffic fatality rate of 23 per 100,000 in 2016, which breaks down to 690 lives lost. Thousands more victims reported serious injuries, but what happens when a person doesn’t notice the symptoms of an accident-related injury until several hours or days pass?
Man is touching the lower back, pain in the kidney, black and white image, pain area of red color
In many cases, the symptoms of car crash injuries are latent or seem minor at first. This often prevents victims from undergoing a medical evaluation, which can prove very costly if the person decides to file an injury claim.
Whiplash is a common example of an injury that appears minor at first but can result in long-term and debilitating effects. Some people who suffer whiplash don’t notice the symptoms until many hours or days after the accident that caused it.
If you were in a crash and you’re starting to notice the symptoms of an injury, contact a Jackson car accident attorney at Heilman Law Group for advice on the claims process. Heilman Law Group has earned a 10.0 Superb rating on Avvo. Call 601-914-1025 to arrange a consultation today.
What If My Pain After a Car Accident Was Delayed?
Some car crash injuries are obvious immediately after the event while others have latent symptoms. Besides whiplash, head injuries can also take some time to manifest, and pain related to joint or internal injuries may only become apparent once the adrenaline has worn off.
Symptoms of a delayed injury include:
- Headaches, which could be related to a concussion or blood clot;
- Neck or shoulder pain, which is often a sign of whiplash;
- Back pain, which may point to soft tissue, nerve or spinal disc damage;
- Abdominal soreness, which can indicate internal bleeding; and
- Depression and anxiety, which are early markers of PTSD.
You should never accept a settlement from the defendant or car insurance company until you know the full extent of your damages. If you accept the settlement, you will not be able to pursue further compensation. It is wise to consult a car accident lawyer who can investigate your case and calculate your damages before entering into settlement negotiations.
In the meantime, you should visit a doctor as soon as possible for a medical evaluation if you have not already done so. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly. If you have already undergone a medical evaluation, turn to a car accident attorney at Heilman Law Group to learn how you should approach the claims process.
Heilman Law Group has an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell attorney rating service – the highest rating given. Call 601-914-1025 to arrange a consultation today. You can find more information on how to make a car accident injury claim on the USAttorneys website.
Heilman Law Group, PA
4266 I-55 North
Suite 106
Jackson, MS 39211
601-914-1025
