Personal injuries suffered in automobile crashes form a significant portion of all civil lawsuits filed in New York. However, many people feel fortunate to have been spared serious injuries when they see no visible broken bones or gushing blood in car accidents — not realizing that hidden symptoms of both personal and emotional injuries may become evident later. For this reason, a medical evaluation after any collision is essential.
Hidden injuries that may cause long-term health problems include cervical disc injuries, or dislocation and fractures to ribs might cause intense pain but could only be diagnosed during a medical examination. Other bone damage may eventually cause function loss if not identified and treated promptly. Injured tendons, muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue damage could include strains, sprains and tears that can only be detected by specialized equipment such as CT scans, and left untreated, these injuries can cause years of chronic pain.
Internal injuries that could be fatal might not be immediately evident, but damaged organs can cause death if the victims choose not to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident. Kidneys, liver, spleen, lungs, heart and aorta damage can follow high impact crashes, and fractured ribs can penetrate organs or puncture the victim’s lungs. Then there are the psychological injuries that typically develop in the aftermath of car accidents and could include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, emotional distress and more.
These are but some of the reasons that make medical evaluations immediately after car accidents essential. Having a record of medical examinations and treatment received may be helpful if the victim later decides to pursue financial relief by filing a personal injury lawsuit. A New York attorney who is experienced in this field of the law can provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the ensuing legal procedures to seek recovery of financial and emotional damages.
Source: axcessnews.com, “Why You Need to See a Doctor Immediately After a Car Accident“, Boris Dzhingarov, Accessed on Dec. 15, 2017
