In the immediate aftermath of a motor vehicle collision, 911 dispatchers typically ask reporting parties immediately whether there are injuries at the scene of the crash. Many people check themselves and others quickly before answering that question.
They might potentially overlook the initial warning signs of serious injuries. In some cases, there may not be any symptoms to report shortly after the crash occurs. What causes the delayed onset of car crash injury symptoms?
The body covers injury symptoms
The human body is incapable of incredible feats, especially during times of danger. The brain provides the body with powerful chemicals immediately after a dangerous or painful experience. The stress response covers pain, increases energy levels and can theoretically help injured people escape dangerous situations or fight off predators.
The body’s response to a stressful situation can make it harder for people to self-diagnose injuries after a car crash. Between the delayed onset of symptoms and the slow progression of internal injuries, people may not realize they have serious car crash injuries until days after a collision occurs.
People involved in serious collisions can avoid medical setbacks and insurance complications by seeing a doctor shortly after a crash. The sooner people receive a diagnosis, the easier it is to prove that the car crash caused their injuries.
Seeing a doctor and then discussing injuries with an attorney can be beneficial for those involved in serious motor vehicle collisions. People who understand that their bodies may hide injury symptoms initially can take appropriate steps to protect their right to fair compensation after a crash.