Personal Injury | December 13, 2024 by JOSHUA D. ANDERSON

Pain After a Car Accident? Recognize the Warning Signs of Delayed Injuries

Experiencing pain after a car accident can be unsettling, especially when symptoms don’t appear right away. Delayed injuries are common, with pain often surfacing hours or days later. Recognizing these symptoms can help you get the care you need. If you’re in Auburn, WA, and feeling sore after an accident, reach out to Anderson Law | Injury Attorneys for guidance.

Sore After a Car Accident? 6 Injuries with Delayed Symptoms

After a car accident, certain injuries may not show symptoms right away. This delay is often due to adrenaline masking pain or inflammation building over time. Here are six common injuries with delayed symptoms:

Whiplash

Caused by sudden neck movements, whiplash can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness—often appearing hours or days after the accident 

Concussion

A blow to the head or a jolt can result in a concussion. Symptoms like headaches, confusion, nausea, and light sensitivity may not be immediate, so it’s crucial to monitor head injuries closely.

Internal Bleeding

Signs of internal bleeding, such as abdominal pain, dizziness, or deep bruising, may not appear right away. This is a serious injury that requires prompt medical attention.

Blood Clots

Blood clots may form after an accident, especially if you’ve experienced bruising. Look for swelling, warmth, or pain in specific areas, as clots can be dangerous if they travel.

Back Injuries

Back pain can emerge gradually and may be due to muscle strain, herniated discs, or spinal injuries. Left untreated, these injuries can lead to chronic pain.

Emotional Injuries

Psychological effects, like anxiety, depression, or PTSD, can also develop after an accident. These emotional injuries are often delayed and just as significant as physical ones.

How Long After a Car Accident Can Symptoms Appear?

Symptoms may appear within hours or take several days, depending on the injury type, healing response, and pain tolerance

What Are Common Immediate Symptoms After a Car Accident?

Typical symptoms right after an accident include bruising, mild headaches, and muscle stiffness. Severe pain or dizziness could indicate more serious injuries.

What Delayed Symptoms Can Appear After a Car Accident?

Delayed symptoms like headaches, back pain, neck stiffness, and abdominal pain may surface as the initial shock fades, potentially signaling hidden injuries.

How Long Will I Be Sore After a Car Accident?

Soreness can last from a few days to weeks. Persistent pain may indicate a more serious injury needing medical evaluation.

What If I Still Have Shoulder Pain After a Car Accident?

Lingering shoulder pain might be due to rotator cuff or soft tissue damage. A doctor can help identify the cause and recommend treatment.

What Do I Do If My Back Still Hurts After a Car Accident?

Persistent back pain could result from a herniated disc or spinal misalignment, potentially requiring physical therapy or other treatment.

Is It Common to Have Delayed Bruising After an Accident?

Yes, delayed bruising is common. Bruising appears when blood vessels break, sometimes taking time to show. Seek medical advice if bruises are painful.

Feeling Sore After a Car Accident?

New or delayed symptoms after a car accident can indicate underlying injuries that impact health and well-being. Don’t ignore them, contact Anderson Law | Injury Attorneys at (253) 862-1811, we will ensure you understand your options.

The information contained on this website is intended for informational purposes only, and is not legal advice. Nothing in this website establishes an attorney-client relationship between us. Different facts can dramatically affect a legal opinion. You should consult an attorney for legal advice that pertains to your personal situation.