There are countless stories about those involved in severe car crashes helping others. Some find out later that they were also severely injured. This may be due to your mind and body going into “survival mode” to protect you after a cataclysmic event. These are examples of why it is important for those who suffer falls or are involved in vehicle crashes to get medical help. Minor symptoms or injuries could be indicative of more severe injuries. It could also be a matter where symptoms or injuries can manifest days or weeks after that initial visit.
Physical symptoms to watch for
It may be tempting to ignore growing or lingering pain, particularly after an inconclusive visit to the hospital or doctor’s office. Here are some common examples of seemingly minor physical injuries that could indicate something more serious:
- Sore back or shoulders: It can take a few days for damage to ligaments, muscles, nerves, or vertebrae to appear.
- Concussions: These can occur if the head is impacted or violently shook. They have a variety of debilitating symptoms, including headaches, nausea, inability to focus, ringing in the ears, memory loss or loss of memory.
- Numbness: This can be the after-effects of damage to your spine or neck.
- Stomach pain: Seatbelts save lives, but they can also cause internal bleeding or damage to your organs.
Statutes of limitations are there for a reason
Those who drafted the statutes of limitations here in Connecticut understood that the magnitude of injuries might not be apparent at first. So, the state allows either a two- or three-year (depending on the circumstances of the case) statute of limitations in which those injured in a motor vehicle crash due to others’ negligence can seek compensation.