After any unexpected accident, there is always a risk of injury. Whether injuries are immediately apparent or take some time to develop, it’s critical to seek medical attention and monitor your body in the aftermath of an accident. This article outlines some of the most common injuries and symptoms that you should keep an eye out for in the days, and even months, following an accident. 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following an accident that was not your fault, our reputable South Carolina personal injury lawyers can help you recover compensation for your physical, financial, and emotional damages. For a complimentary case evaluation directly with an attorney, contact our office today. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and get what you’re owed under state law.

20 Delayed Symptoms to Look Out For After an Accident

1. Headaches

Some headaches may appear immediately, while others appear hours or days later. Headaches can be signs of neck and head injuries.

2. Dizziness

If you are still feeling dizzy days after a crash, this can be a sign of a more serious injury such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussion, or other injury.

3. Neck Pain

Neck pain can be a sign of whiplash after an accident, a common injury caused by the rapid back and forth movements present in many accidents.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

Internal injuries, such as stomach and digestive tract damage, can result in nausea and vomiting. 

5. Developing Pain at Injury Site

Sometimes, endorphins mask the pain in the immediate moments following an accident. Pain may show up or worsen over time as your body returns to a more balanced state. 

6. Shoulder Pain

From dull aches to swelling and redness, shoulder pain may worsen over the days and weeks following an accident.

7. Wrist Pain

Wrist pain can be an indicator of possible broken bones or joint injuries.

8. Back Pain

Back pain may stem from a variety of injuries, ranging in severity. From inflammation to compressed nerves, back pain is a common yet often serious injury.

9. Numbness

Numbness and tingling are common signs of nerve damage or compression and should be looked at as soon as possible. 

10. Stiffness

Stiffness may be a symptom of soft tissue injuries, such as muscle, tendon, ligament, nerve damage, and more.

11. Swelling

Swelling is another common symptom of injury that can take hours or days to appear.

12. Abdominal Pain or Swelling

Abdominal pain or swelling may be a sign of an internal injury or internal bleeding.

13. Emotional Pain

Car accidents can cause more than physical injuries, but psychological pain as well. Some accidents lead to PTSD, anxiety, new fears, and other emotional trauma.

14. Memory Loss

If you’re having difficulty remembering things after an accident, you may have an underlying concussion or TBI. Memory loss is one of the most common symptoms of a TBI.

15. Excessive Sleepiness or Tiredness

If you are feeling exhausted in the days following an accident, you should see a doctor right away, as this could be a sign of a deeper issue.

16. Pale, Clammy, Sweaty Skin

These can be common symptoms in the moments following an accident due to shock, but can also be a sign of other conditions when they persist for hours or days after the accident.

17. Extreme Thirst

Extreme thirst may actually be a sign of serious injuries, such as internal bleeding.

18. Breathlessness

Breathlessness may result from shock, chest injuries, emotional trauma, and more.

19. Losing Consciousness

Dizziness and losing consciousness in the days after an accident may be a symptom of TBI, concussions, TMJ, neck injuries, or other serious injuries.

20. Problem Focusing Eyes

Trouble with eyesight and focusing your eyes, such as vertigo, can be a symptom of concussions and traumatic brain injuries.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following a car accident, it is critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible. 

Once you have been checked out by a doctor and are ready to, it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney about the specifics of your accident, as you may have options under the law.

Soreness vs Injury After an Accident

Many people mistake injuries for soreness following an accident. Generally, soreness should not last for days; however, it’s always in your best interest to seek proper medical attention for a proper diagnosis immediately following an accident. After any accident, your health and safety are the top priority. 

Proving Delayed Symptoms After an Accident

It’s important to keep in mind that delayed symptoms are very common. Accidents often spike our endorphins, which can conceal symptoms and injuries. This is the body’s way of helping us handle the stress, shock, and pain in the aftermath of an accident. As that adrenaline wears off, you may notice some hidden injuries starting to present themselves. 

When you’re experiencing delayed symptoms following an accident, having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side is critical. They will gather ample evidence and use their experience to optimize your case, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

Seeking Compensation After Delayed Injuries

If you were injured in an accident in South Carolina, you may be eligible to seek compensation for all past, present, and future damages related to the accident, such as:

  • Medical Bills
  • Rehabilitation Costs
  • Time Missed From Work
  • Property Damage
  • Pain and Suffering, and more

Whether your symptoms started immediately following the accident or took time to appear, an experienced lawyer will help you understand what you may be entitled to under South Carolina law.

Don’t let the statute of limitations pass. For a free case evaluation with the award-winning South Carolina personal injury lawyers at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC, contact our office today. We are available for you 24/7 via phone at (803) 888-2200.