When you’re in an accident, your body naturally responds to the trauma by masking pain and discomfort. Without immediate symptoms, many victims walk away from the incident believing they’ve escaped unscathed. As time passes, symptoms can gradually begin to appear and disrupt your daily life.
A personal injury lawyer can help you connect these injuries to the accident and fight for damages. They’ll gather evidence, handle insurance claims, and negotiate compensation on your behalf. Read on to learn more about the signs of delayed injuries from an accident, and discover how the team at Jacob Emrani can fight low-ball offers from insurance companies and pursue the justice you deserve.
Delayed Injury Symptoms
While some injuries are immediately noticeable after an accident, others may not become apparent for days or even weeks. You may feel fine right after the incident and then begin experiencing symptoms of back pain, emotional trauma, and other injuries much later. Some of the most common signs you may have a delayed injury include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Headaches
- Weakness in the limbs
- Numbness
- Anxiety and depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Cognitive issues
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is the best way to prevent future complications. Receiving a thorough medical evaluation helps identify hidden injuries, such as internal bleeding, soft tissue damage, and concussions. Catching these problems early helps improve your chances of recovery and prevents worsening symptoms over time.
Documentation from a healthcare professional also helps strengthen your claim by connecting your injuries to the accident. Medical records, treatment plans, and test results increase your chances of obtaining compensation for health care expenses, lost wages, and suffering. Without timely documentation, it can be easier for insurance companies or opposing parties to fight the validity and severity of your injuries.
Gathering Evidence and Documentation
A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and receive fair compensation for late-onset injuries related to an accident. They’ll begin by gathering evidence and documentation that creates a clear link between your injuries and the incident. If you did not receive one at the time, they’ll recommend you schedule a medical evaluation to identify hidden or delayed symptoms. Then, your lawyer will work with medical professionals to gather records, doctor’s notes, and expert testimonies that your injuries are a result of the accident. They may also collect witness statements, accident reports, and photo evidence that strengthen your claim.
Handling Insurance Claims and Legal Processes
A reputable personal injury lawyer handles all communication with the insurance company, presenting your case and demanding compensation for your injury. They’ll file the necessary paperwork, respond to disputes, and work to negotiate a fair settlement. If the insurance company tries to give you a low-ball offer, your lawyer will provide evidence, expert opinions, and legal arguments to defend your position.
If you’re unable to settle with the insurance company, you can take your case to court and have your lawyer advocate on your behalf. They’ll handle every step of the litigation process, from filing the complaint to representing you during trial.
Negotiating Fair Compensation
The main goal of your personal injury lawyer is to help you receive compensation for your pain. Delayed injuries can result in lost wages, medical expenses, and emotional suffering that extend far beyond the accident itself. They’ll carefully calculate the damages to determine a fair settlement and negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible compensation.
When it comes to delayed injury symptoms, victims may be eligible to receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, and future treatments.
- Lost income: Wages you lose due to time taken off work and reduced earning capacity for long-term injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Anxiety, depression, and other mental suffering as a result of the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: The loss of joy or participation in activities or hobbies you once loved.
- Permanent disability: Lasting physical pain or symptoms that affect your life going forward.
Contact The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani Today!
Don’t let a delayed injury prevent you from fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact the Law Offices of Jacob Emrani to speak with our team of experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyers today. We’ll evaluate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and fight tirelessly on your behalf.
With over 25 years of experience in personal injury law in Southern California, our team is committed to helping victims secure the maximum compensation for their pain and suffering, regardless of when symptoms first appear. Call (888) 912-7115 to set up your no-cost case evaluation and begin fighting for justice!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top signs you’re in shock after an accident?
The top signs you may be in shock after an accident include difficulty breathing, dizziness, sweating, nausea, and dilated pupils. Going into shock can prevent you from feeling pain, making it more likely for injuries to become apparent later on.
What kinds of emotional injuries can show up after an accident?
It’s extremely common for emotional injuries to appear days or weeks after an accident. The most common include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, mood swings, and cognitive issues. Emotional disturbances are just as serious as physical injuries, often affecting your work, daily life, and personal relationships.
What should I do if I start to notice symptoms after an accident?
If you begin to notice symptoms after an accident, immediately schedule a medical evaluation with a reputable healthcare professional to document your injuries and begin treatment. Then, contact our team to start gathering evidence and building your claim.
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident?
In California, the statute of limitations allows victims to file a claim two years from the date of the injury. While most claims recognize this date as the day of the accident, delayed symptoms may allow you to extend the timeline from the date your injury was reasonably discovered.