Delayed Injuries After an Accident
Many people think that if they are injured in an auto accident in West Covina, they will feel the physical effects right away. However, this is often not the case. Read on to learn more about delayed onset injuries and what you can do to help yourself.
Common Delayed Onset Injuries
In the immediate aftermath of a car crash -- major or minor -- accident victims go into survival mode. This fight or flight reaction releases a rush of adrenaline, or epinephrine, a stress hormone that allows your body to not focus on pain so you can put your energy into other efforts, such as escaping from a burning car. This adrenaline rush can last for a few days, meaning you might not feel some injuries right away.
The following delayed onset injuries commonly arise after car accidents:
- Headaches
- Whiplash
- Back pain
- Abdominal pain, including internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
This list is not exhaustive. If you or a loved one believe that you were injured in an auto accident that was not your fault and you are suffering from physical pain or discomfort as a result, contact an experienced West Covina accident lawyer to discuss your legal rights and potential for financial recovery.
Medical Care & Your Legal Case
Injuries from a car accident can lead to long term health issues if not resolved immediately. It is important for both your health and your future legal case to seek prompt medical attention after you are involved in an accident so that the doctor or medical professional can assess and/or diagnose your injuries. What's more, your attorney will be able to rely on these medical notes and records when proving to the insurance company that you deserve the financial compensation you are seeking. The more time that goes by between your accident and your first visit to the doctor, the less convincing it can be that your injuries are serious.
What Next
Once you've seen your doctor for an examination, do not delay on reaching out to a West Covina accident lawyer. There is a statute of limitations in California that says you cannot bring a personal injury claim after a certain amount of time. In order to protect your legal rights and recover the financial compensation your injuries deserve, contact the lawyers at Ghozland Law Firm today for a free, no obligation consultation.