Car accidents are all too common. If they weren’t, there wouldn’t be such an immense need for car accident lawyers. On average, there are about 6 million car crashes in the U.S. each year. Recklessness, distraction, DUIs, and medical conditions can all result in damaging or deadly car collisions. Even the safest drivers aren’t immune to the potential dangers of driving. If you are lucky enough to survive a car accident and remain mostly unscathed, understand that you still aren’t out of the woods yet.
There are certain steps you need to take to process the collision. In addition to calling 911, exchanging insurance information, and documenting the scene, you’ll need to pay close attention to any post-accident symptoms that emerge. At first, the adrenaline in your system may prevent you from feeling anything. But as it wears off over the next few days, watch out for these medical warning signs:
Headaches
If you start to experience persistent or severe headaches, there could be something more serious going on. If you suffered a direct impact to your head, there could be a concussion or traumatic brain injury present. Pay attention to accompanying symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and brain function issues. Headaches can also be a sign of bleeding or clotting in the brain, which can ultimately lead to a stroke.
Neck and Shoulder Pain
Pain in the neck and shoulder region is common after a car accident, even if it’s just a fender bender. Though it’s possibly benign, it could also be a sign of something more serious. Sometimes it’s simply from tension and stress, but other times it’s a signal of nerve and tissue damage or an injury to your muscles, tendons, or joints. Neck and shoulder pain is also related to whiplash and concussion.
Numbness or Tingling Sensations
If you’re experiencing tingling and/or numbness, something’s awry in your nervous system. Pitched or damaged nerves, spinal cord damage, brain injuries, blood clots, or internal bleeding can also produce that unpleasant sensation. These conditions can be fatal or, at the very least, incredibly painful. Always seek immediate medical attention.
Back Pain
Chronic back pain is a common post-accident symptom, occurring in about 50% of all cases. Muscle injuries, damaged ligaments, pinched nerves, and spinal injuries can all result in lingering back pain. Without proper medical assistance, this symptom will likely persist.
Rapid Changes in Mood or Personality
Your loved ones may notice this one before you. Severe shifts in mood and noticeable changes in personality can be signs of a concussion or traumatic brain injury. You may also experience concentration problems and sleep issues. These symptoms could also point to PTSD or other mental health issues. Car accidents are traumatic events that can have lasting effects on your psyche.
Dizziness or Vision Issues
The onset of dizziness and vision problems can occur within hours or days after the incident. These symptoms are common with whiplash, concussion, PTSD, and brain injuries. Though it is possible for some of these issues to subside on their own, you should see a doctor to rule out any fatal or permanently damaging conditions.
Abdominal Pain
Many of your vital organs are located in the abdominal region. If you feel pain or see swelling and bruising around your abdomen, you could have internal bleeding and damage to your organs.
Hire Davis Law Group for Your Car Accident Injury
If you are suffering with the lasting effects of a car accident, Davis Law Group will lend a compassionate hand. We are here to help you navigate the legal labyrinth that comes with car accidents and personal injuries. Whether you are the victim or culprit of a car accident, you should always consult with an attorney to fully understand your rights. No matter your situation, you can rest assured that the lawyers at Davis Law Group will treat you like a person and not like a number or paycheck.
