Oklahoma residents who have been involved in a car accident may not be immediately aware that they have been injured, especially when the injuries received are not readily visible. Right after an accident, a person is often in shock and may not notice symptoms. In some types of injuries, symptoms may also not show up for hours or even several days.
Probably the most widely known delayed injury symptoms are those associated with whiplash, including stiff and painful shoulders and necks. People who have whiplash may also experience numbness in their hands and fingers due to compression on the nerves that go into the arms.
Other symptoms that may indicate a serious injury include headaches. This may indicate that the person may have suffered a head injury or may have developed a blood clot in the brain. Back pain may indicate that the person has damage to bones, nerves or muscles that may require treatment. A painful or swollen abdomen can be a sign of dangerous internal bleeding. A person who experiences a sudden personality change or a reduction in the ability to physically function may have suffered from a traumatic brain injury. Finally, some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder after they have been involved in an accident.
As symptoms of serious injuries may not show up for days following car accidents, it is important for everyone involved to see their respective doctors afterwards to make sure that they do not have hidden injuries. People whose injuries resulted from another driver’s negligence may then also want to see a personal injury attorney. Legal counsel may be able to help them recover damages to cover their losses, including their medical expenses that have been incurred.
Why do some injuries show up days after an accident?
In the moments after a crash, the body releases adrenaline, which can mask pain for hours. Other injuries simply take time to develop: swelling and inflammation build gradually, slow internal bleeding may not cause symptoms right away, and the effects of a concussion can emerge over several days. That is why feeling fine at the scene does not always mean you were not hurt.
Which delayed symptoms should never be ignored?
- A severe or worsening headache, especially with vomiting, confusion, or drowsiness. This can signal bleeding in the brain and needs emergency care.
- Memory problems, trouble concentrating, sleep changes, or mood changes. These can be signs of a brain injury. See our article on often ignored signs of a brain injury after an auto accident.
- Neck and shoulder pain or stiffness, often from whiplash.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs, which can point to nerve or spinal cord injuries.
- Abdominal pain, swelling, deep bruising, or dizziness, which can be signs of internal bleeding. Our article on how doctors treat internal bleeding explains what happens next.
- Anxiety, flashbacks, or trouble sleeping, which can be signs of post-traumatic stress.
If symptoms are severe or getting worse, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
Should I see a doctor if I feel fine after an accident?
Yes. A medical evaluation soon after a crash, ideally within a day or two, can catch injuries before they become more serious. Tell the doctor you were in an accident and describe every symptom, even minor ones. For more, see our guide to evaluating your condition after a car accident.
Can delayed symptoms affect my injury claim?
They can. When there is a gap between the accident and your first medical visit, an insurance company may argue that your injury was caused by something else. Getting checked promptly, following your treatment plan, and keeping your records creates a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Those records also support a claim for medical bills and lost wages. To understand the insurance side, see how auto insurance works in an injury claim.
What should I do in the days after a car accident?
- Get a medical evaluation, and return to the doctor if new symptoms appear.
- Keep a simple daily log of your symptoms, pain levels, and missed work.
- Save the police report number, photos of the vehicles and scene, and the other driver’s insurance information.
- Keep every medical bill, receipt, and record.
- Speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement or signing anything for the other driver’s insurance company.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long after a car accident can symptoms appear?
Many symptoms appear within hours or a few days. Some, such as certain effects of a brain injury or post-traumatic stress, can take weeks to become noticeable.
I did not see a doctor right away. Can I still bring a claim?
Often, yes. See a doctor as soon as symptoms appear and explain that you were in an accident. The sooner your injuries are documented, the stronger the connection to the crash.
What does it cost to talk with Glass & Tabor?
The initial consultation is free. It gives you a chance to tell us what happened and ask your questions, and it helps both of us decide whether the firm is the right fit for your situation.
If you are dealing with injuries from a car accident caused by someone else, contact Glass & Tabor in Norman, Oklahoma for a free consultation.