Auto Accident Injuries In Pinellas County That Can Cause Delayed Symptoms
When an auto accident in Pinellas County happens, it can cause severe, potentially debilitating injuries. However, symptoms may not appear until days later.
Once the shock passes and the adrenaline wears off, you could be left with chronic pain, limited mobility, and other impairments. If you didn’t get immediate medical care, the insurer may dispute or deny your claim, leaving you to pay out of pocket for medical bills and other costs.
Our experienced Clearwater auto accident attorney helps clients throughout Pinellas County in these cases. Find out common injuries that can cause delayed symptoms and how to protect your health and your rights to compensation.
Pinellas County Auto Accident Injuries That Often Show Delayed Symptoms
Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that more than 9,000 people in Pinellas County are injured due to auto accidents each year. Even a relatively minor ‘fender bender’ is enough to cause serious harm, but not all injuries announce themselves immediately.
Shock, adrenaline, and inflammation can mask pain and other symptoms in the days after a crash. As swelling increases or injured tissues begin to strain, symptoms may slowly surface. Common types of auto accident injuries that cause delayed symptoms:
- Soft tissue injuries affecting muscles and ligaments;
- Herniated or bulging spinal discs;
- Whiplash and other neck injuries;
- Concussions and mild traumatic brain injuries;
- Internal injuries, which could prove life-threatening.
Unfortunately, ignoring early warning signs and delayed medical care can lead to longer recovery times and more serious complications. It can also impact your rights to compensation.
What to Do If Symptoms Appear Days After a Pinellas County Crash
If you are involved in an auto accident in Clearwater and the other driver is at fault, you have the right to hold them liable, either through their insurer or by filing an injury lawsuit through the Pinellas County Civil Court. Unfortunately, not getting medical attention right away is a common reasons for denied claims.
Delays give at-fault drivers and insurance companies an opening to argue that your injuries aren’t severe or came from something else. Taking action quickly helps close that gap. If you start feeling pain after an accident, here’s what to do:
- Visit the hospital, an urgent care clinic, or your usual provider.
- Tell them about your accident and the timing of symptoms.
- Follow all treatment recommendations.
- Keep copies of your medical records and notes documenting your pain levels and limitations.
Taking these steps, even days after a crash, provides valuable evidence our Pinellas County auto accident lawyer can use to support your claim.
To Get the Compensation You Deserve, Contact Our Pinellas County Auto Accident Lawyer
Delayed treatment for auto accident injuries in Pinellas County is a common reason insurers deny or downplay claims. At The Reep Law Firm, we protect your rights and provide the trusted legal help you need to get the compensation you deserve.
To get the total amount needed to cover your losses, contact our office. Request a consultation with our Pinellas County auto accident lawyer today.
Source:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
