What Are the Symptoms of Car Accident Injuries?

July 3, 2023

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Understanding the symptoms of car accident injuries is vital to ensure prompt medical attention and proper treatment. Following a car accident, the potential for injury is high, even in what might seem to be minor incidents.

The nature of your symptoms can vary greatly, depending on factors such as the severity of the crash, the positions of the occupants in the vehicle, and the speed at which the accident occurred. However, car accident injuries can often take hours or even days to surface. Knowing the warning signs may save you from exacerbating an injury or possibly fatal effects.

If you have symptoms of car accident injuries, get help immediately. Either call 911, go to the emergency room, or, if not severe, make an appointment to see your general practitioner. Then, call Colling Gilbert Wright at (407) 712-7300 for a FREE case evaluation. We can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Symptoms of Common Car Accident Injuries

We cannot stress enough how important it is to pay attention to the symptoms of car accident injuries. Seeking medical attention can save your life. The following are some common car accident injuries and possible symptoms.

Whiplash & Neck Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents. It occurs when the head is jerked forcefully forward and then backward, straining or tearing the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, loss of range of motion, and headaches. Symptoms might not appear immediately but could develop hours or even days after the accident.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms of mild TBI can include headache, confusion, dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulty concentrating. A more severe TBI can cause vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, profound confusion, and loss of coordination. It’s critical to seek immediate medical attention if a TBI is suspected, as these injuries can have long-term effects on cognitive and motor function.

Back & Spinal Cord Injuries

Car accidents can cause a range of back and spinal cord injuries, including herniated discs and fractures. Symptoms might include pain, numbness, weakness in the limbs, and, in severe cases, paralysis. Like TBIs, spinal cord injuries can have long-term or even permanent effects, so immediate medical attention is key.

Chest Injuries

Chest injuries often occur due to impact with the steering wheel, seatbelt, or airbag. These can range from bruises and contusions to broken ribs and internal injuries. Symptoms can include pain, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood.

Internal Injuries

Car accidents can cause internal injuries, including damage to organs such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, or spleen. Symptoms of internal injuries can be subtle but might include abdominal pain, deep bruising, dizziness, or fainting. These injuries are also life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Fractures & Soft Tissue Injuries

Fractures and soft tissue injuries are also typical after a car accident. Symptoms of fractures include pain, swelling, and deformity. Soft tissue injuries include strains, sprains, and contusions; symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and loss of function.

It’s important to remember that not all injuries present symptoms immediately after the accident. Delayed symptoms can include headaches, back pain, abdominal pain or swelling, changes in personality or physical function, and PTSD.

Possible Damages in a Car Accident Claim

In Florida, if you’re involved in a car accident, there are various types of damages you can claim, subject to the nature and severity of your injuries:

Medical Expenses: This includes immediate medical treatment, ongoing care, rehabilitation services, and any future medical expenses related to the accident.
Lost Wages: If your injury causes you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income. If your ability to earn in the future is impacted, you may also claim for loss of earning capacity.
Pain & Suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain and emotional distress suffered due to your injuries.
Loss of Consortium: Spouses of injured parties can claim this when their loved one’s injuries adversely affect their companionship and relationship.

Remember, Florida’s no-fault system requires you to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance per Florida Statutes § 627.736. This policy covers 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of your lost income up to $10,000, regardless of who caused the accident. However, if injuries are severe, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party’s bodily injury liability (BIL) insurance.

More Reasons to Seek Medical Attention after a Car Accident

Car accidents can cause a range of injuries with various symptoms. If you’ve been in a car accident, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial, even if you feel fine initially. A thorough medical examination can identify any injuries, ensuring you receive the necessary treatment and helping prevent complications.

Seeking prompt medical attention can strengthen your claim. Your PIP insurance requires that you seek medical treatment within 14 days of a car accident. Your claim could be rejected if you do not abide by that guideline. Additionally, acting quickly and thoroughly documenting your care will ensure that the insurance company cannot argue with the validity of your injury and, therefore, your claim.

And, of course, always consider seeking legal advice if you’ve been injured in a car accident to help you understand your rights and options. An experienced car accident attorney is practiced in the intricacies of a car accident claim and can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, helping to secure a fair settlement.

Colling Gilbert Wright Is Here for You

We represent our clients with integrity, empathy, and a commitment to justice. If you’re experiencing symptoms of car accident injuries, contact Colling Gilbert Wright for a FREE consultation. We will evaluate your claim to ensure you are pursuing the compensation you deserve for the losses you’ve suffered. We serve clients in Orlando and throughout Florida.