Skip Navigation 
Motor vehicle accidents are terrifying events that can leave lasting physical injuries and emotional scars. While some injuries are immediately apparent, others may take days or weeks to appear after an accident. These delayed symptoms can pose serious health risks if left untreated.
If you’ve been injured in a Colorado car accident, seeking medical attention is crucial, even if your injuries seem minor or nonexistent. A doctor can identify and document injuries early on, which is vital for your health and crucial for legal claims arising from the accident.
Understanding Delayed Symptoms
The adrenaline rush from a serious collision often hides signs of severe injury, leaving car accident victims unaware of the extent of their injuries until the rush subsides. As the adrenaline wanes, delayed symptoms may emerge. Car accident victims should look for signs of delayed symptoms and seek medical attention promptly to address potential injuries.
Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms can help doctors recommend appropriate medical treatment. Documenting delayed symptoms can also strengthen your claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the other driver’s insurance company. Contact our Denver car accident attorney today.
Physical Delayed Symptoms
Common car accident injuries with delayed symptoms include:
Headaches – Headaches are one of the most common delayed symptoms after a car accident. Headaches that appear after the crash can be a symptom of concussion, neck injury, or even blood clots.- Neck and shoulder pain or stiffness – Neck and shoulder pain or stiffness is often a delayed symptom of whiplash. Whiplash occurs due to the rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, which is typical in car accidents.
- Soft tissue injuries – Swelling, bruising, and limited mobility can indicate damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Symptoms often worsen with time.
- Back pain – Back pain can suggest muscle or ligament injury, herniated disc, or even damage to the vertebrae.
- Numbness and tingling – Blood clots, internal bleeding, spinal cord damage, or brain injury can cause numbness or tingling in your limbs or other body parts.
- Abdominal pain and other internal symptoms – Delayed abdominal pain may indicate internal bleeding. Monitor for symptoms like deep purple bruising, dizziness, and fainting.
Psychological Delayed Symptoms
Car accidents may also lead to psychological distress that is not immediately apparent. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by a traumatic event. According to the Mayo Clinic, PTSD symptoms may include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Loss of interest in activities
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Irritability and angry outbursts
- Hopelessness or sadness
PTSD can significantly impact work performance, social relationships, and family dynamics. If you experience PTSD symptoms after a car crash, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional.
Contact a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve experienced pain and other symptoms after a Colorado car crash caused by someone else, the team at The Wilhite Law Firm will fight for you. Our personal injury lawyers can help build a strong car accident claim against the insurance company to show that the collision caused your delayed injuries. Call today or contact us online for a free consultation with a Colorado car accident attorney.
