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Delayed Pain After an Accident

Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC Nov. 21, 2023

Man on phone with neck injury after car accidentWe understand that being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience. The physical pain, emotional distress, and uncertainty that follow can be overwhelming. You are not alone--you have options for help. 

At Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC, we're here to guide you when facing delayed injuries after a car accident. We have years of experience serving clients throughout Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Howard County, and Fredrick County in Maryland. Our team is committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need during these challenging times. 

Injuries That May Result in Delayed Pain

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may not become apparent until days or weeks after the incident. It's crucial to understand the potential delayed pain and injuries you might face following a car accident. These include: 

  • Whiplash: This is a common injury in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Whiplash happens when your neck is jerked back and forth rapidly, straining the muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. 

  • Back and Neck Injuries: Apart from whiplash, other back and neck injuries can occur, such as herniated discs or spinal cord damage. These injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can cause significant pain and disability over time. 

  • Concussions and Head Injuries: A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head. Symptoms can be subtle and may not appear right away. They include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and memory problems. 

  • Soft Tissue Injuries: These are injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They can cause pain, swelling, and loss of function, but these symptoms might not be noticeable until some time has passed. 

  • Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, blood vessels, or the abdominal area can be life-threatening, but the symptoms may not be immediate. Signs to watch out for include abdominal pain, deep purple bruising, and dizziness. 

  • Fractures and Broken Bones: While some fractures are immediately apparent, others, like hairline fractures, may not cause noticeable pain until later. 

  • Psychological Injuries and Emotional Trauma: Accidents can lead to psychological injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. These conditions can have delayed onset and significantly impact one's quality of life. 

Delayed Symptoms to Watch For

It's crucial to be aware of the potential delayed symptoms that could develop hours or even days after a car accident. These include: 

  • Pain or discomfort: This could manifest in various parts of your body, indicating potential injuries that were not immediately noticeable. 

  • Headaches or migraines: They could be a sign of a concussion or other type of traumatic brain injury. 

  • Neck or shoulder pain: This is often a symptom of whiplash or other soft tissue injuries. 

  • Back pain: This could indicate a herniated disc or other serious spinal injuries. 

  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities: This could be a sign of nerve damage or spinal cord injury. 

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness: These symptoms may indicate a brain injury or internal bleeding. 

  • Changes in mood or behavior: These could be signs of emotional trauma or a traumatic brain injury. 

  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering: This could be a symptom of a concussion or other brain injury. 

  • Sleep disturbances: Trouble sleeping could be a sign of stress or trauma following the accident. 

  • Fatigue or lack of energy: This could be due to physical injury or emotional stress. 

  • Changes in appetite or weight: These could be signs of stress or a physical response to trauma. 

  • Blurred vision or sensitivity to light: These symptoms could indicate a head or eye injury. 

  • Ringing in the ears: This could be a symptom of a concussion or other head injury. 

  • Difficulty with balance or coordination: This might indicate a brain or inner ear injury. 

  • Digestive issues such as nausea or vomiting: These could be signs of internal injuries. 

  • Increased sensitivity to noise or touch: This could be a symptom of a neurological disorder or brain injury. 

  • Changes in taste or smell: These could be signs of a brain injury. 

  • Emotional distress or anxiety: These could be signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological effects following the accident. 

Time Limit for Filing a Personal Injury Claim 

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date the injury occurs. This deadline is vital to keep in mind. If you don’t file a claim within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. 

Don’t Settle With the Insurance Company Too Quickly

We can't stress enough how important it is not to rush into a settlement with an insurance company. Delayed pain after a car accident can manifest days or even weeks later, and settling too quickly may leave you with inadequate compensation for your injuries. It's always best to get fully evaluated by a doctor and give yourself time to determine the full extent of your injuries before considering a settlement. 

Skilled & Compassionate Legal Counsel

At Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC, we understand the challenges that come with delayed pain after an accident. Our team of skilled attorneys is here to provide you with the legal counsel and support you need during this difficult time. We have a wealth of experience handling personal injury cases and will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be tough, but you don't have to go through it alone. Let us help you navigate this challenging process so you can focus on your recovery. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can assist you.