Cars are integral to modern life, but with them comes risk. As we know, car accidents can be devastating and unpredictable. While there is no one way to handle them, this article outlines what to expect physically after a car accident.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles 2021 annual traffic crash data, Florida roads are even more dangerous than in prior years.
The FLHSMV reported that accidents were most frequent at dusk, dawn, and night when visibility is poorest. The number of hit-and-run accidents increased by 17% and accidents with fatalities or serious injuries increased even more.
What to Expect Physically After a Car Accident?
One of the most critical issues following an accident is whether or not you feel any residual discomfort from the crash. What might you expect physically after a car accident? A person may experience from modest to serious pain, depending on the severity of the automobile crash. The amount of pain people experience is determined by factors such as the speed of the vehicles, which side of the car was hit, and the type of injury sustained.
7 Symptoms to Look for After a Car Accident
If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, there are some things to look for within the first 24-48 hours.
- Neck or shoulder pain/stiffness
Neck soreness is a symptom of whiplash, which is prevalent in rear-end collisions. In an accident, whipping your head back and forth can cause herniated discs, sprains and strains, and other spinal cord damage. As a result, neck pain might manifest itself hours or days after an accident.
- Back pain
Back discomfort, like neck pain, can appear hours or days after an injury and can be a sign of soft tissue damage, herniated discs, whiplash, or spinal injuries. Back discomfort can have a long-term impact on mobility and daily activities, so if you’re having back pain, you should seek treatment immediately.
- Abdominal pain
Stomach pain after an accident could suggest soft tissue damage or internal hemorrhage. This, too, should be addressed quickly.
- Headache and nausea
While headaches are a frequent car accident symptom, they should be taken seriously if accompanied by nausea and other flu-like symptoms, as this could indicate a concussion or other type of brain injury.
- Tingling and numbness
If you’re suffering numbness or a “pins-and-needles” sensation, you may have a spinal injury or nervous system damage. You could have a pinched nerve or a herniated disc, depending on the area of tingling and numbness.
- Memory loss or lack of concentration
Car accidents can induce emotional and psychological problems, but traumatic brain damage can also cause these symptoms.
- Excessive sleepiness or fatigue
Chronic tiredness following a car accident could indicate a traumatic brain injury or depression. Both require medical intervention.
What You Can Do to Help Improve Your Recovery Time?
After a car accident, taking care of your physical health is important. Here are some things you can do to help improve your recovery time:
- Ensure you get the medical attention you need. If you don’t receive proper care following an accident, your injury may worsen, making it more difficult to heal. Furthermore, without a medical evaluation, it may be more difficult to obtain compensation for your injuries
- Take care of your mental health as well. Even if you have no visible injuries, feeling overwhelmed and alone after a car accident can lead to additional stress and depression. Reach out to loved ones, friends, or therapists for support.
- Exercise regularly once it is medially safe to do so. Get clearance from your physical therapist or doctor first. Exercise helps release endorphins, chemicals that help reduce pain and inflammation. This is especially important if you have any injuries that require physical therapy.
Taking these simple steps will help improve your overall recovery time after a car accident.
Do You Need an Attorney if You’re Injured in an Accident?
If you’re injured in an accident, it’s critical to know your rights and get in touch with an attorney. Pacin Levine can assist you in navigating the legal system and getting the most compensation possible for your injuries. You don’t have to take on this daunting task on your own – contact Pacin Levine today to get started.
