Injuries are often the most expensive aspect of a motor vehicle collision. Ambulance rides, trauma care and surgical procedures can add up to tens of thousands of dollars in medical expenses. People also frequently need to address their lost income while recovering from crash injuries.
Those calling to report a crash immediately after it occurs may tell the person who answers at the local police department or emergency line that they do not need immediate medical attention. Motorists may assume that there are no major injuries, but not all serious injuries are easy for people to identify in themselves immediately after a collision. What car crash injuries often escape notice immediately after a crash?
1. Traumatic brain injuries
There are multiple ways for a car crash to injure the human brain. Collisions are among the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the United States. Bleeding inside the skull or inflammation of the brain can cause a variety of symptoms that could be permanent.
Often, TBI symptoms take days or even weeks to develop. Immediately after a crash, there may not be any warning signs yet of a TBI. People require professional medical evaluations to diagnose TBIs immediately after getting hurt.
2. Internal bleeding
The skull isn’t the only place where internal bleeding could occur after a crash. People can also sustain injuries to their chest and abdomen, possibly due to the restraints that keep them in the vehicle or contact with the steering column.
Internal bleeding may not be obvious until people start displaying symptoms of anemia and blood loss. Bruising, swelling and tenderness are all potential warning signs of internal injuries. Health care professionals can diagnose internal bleeding promptly and intervene to prevent it from progressing.
3. Soft tissue injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, can generate tens of thousands of dollars in expenses. People may require medication, such as muscle relaxants.
They may need to undergo physical therapy or receive treatment to manage their pain. They may be unable to work until their symptoms improve. Often, people don’t notice soft tissue injuries until hours after a crash or the next morning.
Seeing a medical professional after a car crash is often the only way to promptly identify internal injuries and prevent them from worsening. People who know what steps to take after a car crash can help protect their health and their right to pursue compensation later.