Car accidents result in immediate and obvious consequences like damage to vehicles and personal injuries. However, sometimes injuries or the full extent of their severity do not present themselves until days or even weeks after the collision. This can make it difficult for victims to prove that the injury came from the crash. Continue reading to learn more about how to prove your car accident injuries even if symptoms do not appear until later on. Work with an experienced Rockland County auto accident lawyer for skilled representation and legal advice during your case.
Should I Seek Medical Attention After a Crash?
Regardless of whether or not you feel injured at the time, it is crucial that you seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Although you may feel fine or just a little shaken up, a doctor or other medical professional can evaluate you for injuries that may not be obvious like whiplash, concussions, strains, etc. By going to the doctor early you are not only ensuring your health but also creating a record of your condition immediately following the accident. This can be helpful to start a paper trail and establish a connection between the car accident and any injuries that may appear later.
How Can I Prove My Car Accident Injuries if Symptoms Appear Later?
If your symptoms do not appear right after the accident you may still be able to prove that they are related to the crash and pursue compensation. Consider the following.
- Seek medical attention: As established, seeing a doctor is important after a crash to ensure you are healthy and set yourself up for success later on.
- Document your symptoms: Symptoms may not present themselves immediately so it is important to document any pain, swelling, or discomfort over time. For example, if you have a concussion it may not be identified right away. However, you may begin to experience headaches, nausea, blurry vision, or trouble paying attention in the days and weeks following the collision. Keeping a personal record of your symptoms as they emerge can help prove that the injury resulted from the crash.
- Obtain expert testimony: Testimony from medical experts can go far in proving your car accident injuries during a claim or lawsuit. These individuals may be able to explain your condition, how your injuries could manifest over time, and how they are linked to the accident. If the connection between the crash and your injuries is being questioned, expert testimony can confirm that your injuries were caused by the accident.
- Gather supporting evidence: Besides your medical records, gather additional supporting evidence that can corroborate your claim that the car crash led to your injuries. The police report may have relevant information like the speed each car was traveling, where the point of impact was, or other circumstances that could have contributed to the injury.
When injuries and symptoms do not immediately appear it can be difficult to prove that they are connected to a car crash. However, with strong evidence and the help of a skilled attorney, you can recover compensation for your damages. Reach out to an experienced lawyer today.
