Car accidents are traumatic events. Depending on the severity of the crash, you may experience minor to life-threatening injuries. Even seemingly minor collisions can cause devasting injuries. Unfortunately, feeling fine after an accident doesn’t guarantee that you are out of the woods. Some injuries don’t show up right away. It can be concerning if your injury worsens over time, but it’s crucial to know what steps you can take to ensure your well-being and protect your right to compensation. Please continue reading to learn what you should do if your car accident injury worsens over time and how a skilled Prince George’s County Auto Accident Lawyer can guide you through this difficult time.
How Long After a Collision Can Injuries Surface?
In the aftermath of a collision, your adrenaline is pumping and emotions are heightened, which makes it tempting to wave off medical treatment. It’s a common misconception that the absence of visible injuries or immediate sensation of pain guarantees that you are unarmed. However, victims often experience latent injuries with delayed onset symptoms. Depending on the type of injury and other factors, some symptoms may not present until hours, days, or even weeks after the incident. Therefore, even if you initially feel fine, you should consult a doctor if you experience any pain, discomfort, or unusual health issues in the weeks following your accident. Medical care is most effective when a victim is treated promptly. The sooner injuries are diagnosed, the sooner you can start to address them, giving you the best chance of reaching a full recovery.
What Should I Do if My Car Accident Injury Worsens Over Time?
After seeking medical treatment, you should keep tabs on your symptoms. If you notice your injuries are getting worse or your symptoms are starting to appear, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. They will assess the full extent of your injuries. Having a medical professional examine your condition ensures your health and creates a record that serves as concrete evidence linking your injuries directly to the accident. This documentation is essential for establishing a personal injury claim and ensuring you receive proper compensation for your injuries.
As your injury worsens over time, you should keep a detailed record of the symptoms you experience. This should include the date and time your injury worsened, any activities that seem to aggravate your pain levels, and any new symptoms. From here, you should notify your insurance company of the worsening injury, as it could impact your claim if you require further treatment.
Furthermore, if your injury is severe and the worsening symptoms are significantly affecting your life, you should consult a seasoned attorney who can ensure that you are compensated for future medical treatment, lost wages, or pain and suffering that may arise from the ongoing effects of your accident. They will help you understand your legal options and demonstrate to the insurance company that the worsening condition is a direct result of the crash, not a pre-existing issue.
At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to help you attain the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.
