What if my accident injuries don't show up right away?

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, your adrenaline and endorphins are a natural reaction and can work to block pain for several hours, making it appear as if you escaped from the accident unharmed.

Soft tissue damage, such as harm done to your muscles, tendons, and ligaments, can make itself known in the days following an accident, whiplash being one of the most common. You could be experiencing discomfort, swelling, and reduced mobility which manifest much later.

Since you may not yet be aware of how injured you are immediately following an accident, you should seek medical attention afterward since a medical professional would be in the best position to assess your injuries. Waiting too long to see a doctor can be used as evidence against you because insurance adjusters will argue that you could not have been too seriously hurt if you waited days or weeks to see a medical professional.

In addition, it is vitally important to any injury claim you desire to file that you do not settle with the other party’s insurance company. They may attempt to reach out to you in the days following the accident in an attempt to get you to sign a release of any claims you may have and may even offer you a monetary settlement to encourage you to sign.

Signing the release, however, will likely limit how much compensation you can recover. You would be unable to return to the insurance company later and ask to cover any further medical treatment you need.

For legal advice following an accident, speak with the Law office of Steven R. Whitman. Protect your right to recover needed financial damages!