More than 6 million auto accidents occur in the United States each year. In those crashes, over 3 million people are injured. Some injuries are minor, but others can have a significant impact on the life of the affected person. In fact, about 2 million people per year suffer permanent injuries in car crashes, and sadly, not all of these severely injured individuals will receive compensation. This is, in part, because far too many of them do not seek treatment until it is too late. If you experience an accident, it is important to know how to avoid the same troubling fate.
Adrenaline and Injury Symptoms
When a crash happens, those involved often experience a rush of adrenaline. This evolutionary response to trauma can mask the symptoms of an injury, leading the person to believe they are fine. Even more troubling is that, even when symptoms do start to manifest, people often fail to directly attribute them to the accident. If they continue to overlook the connection and never seek treatment, their risk for long-term complications and/or death can increase dramatically.
Symptoms That Could Indicate a Serious Injury
One of the biggest reasons that people may not immediately attribute their delayed symptoms to an accident is that, at first glance, the symptoms might not seem very serious. For example, a simple headache after a crash could be an indication of a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a blood clot, or brain hemorrhaging. Pain and stiffness in the neck or shoulder area—which might be written off as stress from the accident or simply being “shaken up”—could be an indication of whiplash. Back pain could indicate a herniated disc or damage to nerves or muscles.
Getting Treatment and Compensation for Your Injuries
The first step to ensuring you are compensated for your injuries is to make sure you receive prompt medical treatment. Even if you do not feel injured, it is a good idea to be examined by a medical professional as soon as is reasonable after your accident, starting with the responding paramedics on the scene. This documents the crash, and it connects any injuries that might arise later to that crash. Next, you should contact a qualified personal injury attorney. This will ensure that your rights are protected, and that all factors and injuries are considered in your accident settlement.
Contact a Houston Car Wreck Lawyer
At the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we understand just how devastating the effects of an auto accident can be. Our team will carefully examine your case and help you understand your available options along the way. We strive to ensure all negligent parties are held responsible, and we will fight aggressively to get the compensation you deserve. To learn more about how we can assist with your case, schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced Harris County car crash attorney. Call (218) 585 – 1557 today.
Sources:
https://www.driverknowledge.com/car-accident-statistics/
7 delayed injury symptoms after a car crash
Connect with us
