Ruling out serious injuries is often a top priority following a motor vehicle collision. The people involved in a crash frequently check themselves carefully for signs of lacerations and broken bones. If they notice any concerning signs of injuries, they usually provide that information when calling to ask for police assistance.
Unfortunately, some people fall victim to the mistake of assuming they have no serious injuries because they have no visible wounds. Some of the worst injuries possible after a car crash are technically invisible injuries. They occur internally. One of the most life-altering conditions associated with car wrecks may not be easy to spot at the scene of a crash. It could be days before people realize they need medical care and possibly also financial support.
Brain injuries are hard to diagnose
Car crashes are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). People can hurt their brains due to blunt force trauma. The sudden motions of the vehicle can cause bleeding and swelling inside the skull. People may suffer penetrating injuries caused by flying debris.
Unlike a deep laceration or a fracture, a TBI may not present immediate warning signs. Instead, people may notice a slow development of symptoms over several days. They may only seek out medical care when their symptoms become severe. The longer it takes to diagnose a TBI, the worse the damage to the brain and the symptoms may become. A significant delay in diagnosis can worsen someone’s overall prognosis. A delay can also make it more difficult to request compensation from the driver at fault for the crash.
Medical attention after a wreck is important
Many people involved in collisions want to handle the issue quickly and put the whole matter behind them. While that attitude is certainly understandable, it can lead to worsening injuries and financial challenges. Given the delayed onset of brain injury symptoms and how many different symptoms are possible, professional medical evaluation is the only way to be certain about whether or not someone has a brain injury.
Taking the time to seek medical attention after a motor vehicle collision can be a smart decision. Those who know how to respond after a crash can more effectively protect themselves from the worst potential outcomes.
