What Symptoms Should You Watch Out for after a Car Accident?

Car accidents are sudden, violent events that can leave drivers and passengers shaken and injured. Unless the accident is truly devastating, some people may not realize they even have injuries until a few days or weeks after the collision. After an accident, there are many symptoms you should watch out for that could signal a more severe injury. For this reason alone, you should always consult a doctor, as they can perform a full diagnostic to discover your injuries.

If your accident resulted from someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to financial compensation to cover medical bills and property damage. The Long Island car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm work hard to hold at-fault drivers accountable for their actions and fight for justice.

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Headaches May Indicate Brain Trauma

Headaches are the most common symptom accident victims report. There are many reasons you might be experiencing head pain, such as a concussion or whiplash. You should always go to the doctor if you have a severe and constant headache, especially if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms associated with a concussion or whiplash.

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Brain Injury

Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that happens when the brain slams against the interior of the skull. Victims can also suffer from a concussion if they were violently jerked back and forth. In addition to headaches, you might also experience:

  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Mood swings
  • Migraines
  • Memory loss

Our best car accident lawyers on Long Island say you should never dismiss a concussion, as it could lead to more serious, life-threatening issues.

Whiplash

Rear-end accident victims usually suffer from whiplash since they experience a sharp back-and-forth motion. How whiplash differs from a concussion is that it impacts the soft tissue and the neck. Other symptoms include:

  • Neck or shoulder pain
  • Sleep pattern changes
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Numbness in the arms or hands

It’s important to know that you can have both a concussion and whiplash at the same time. Monitor your health carefully after an accident.

woman with neck pain after car accident
woman with neck pain after car accident

Whiplash

Rear-end accident victims usually suffer from whiplash since they experience a sharp back-and-forth motion. How whiplash differs from a concussion is that it impacts the soft tissue and the neck. Other symptoms include:

  • Neck or shoulder pain
  • Sleep pattern changes
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Numbness in the arms or hands

It’s important to know that you can have both a concussion and whiplash at the same time. Monitor your health carefully after an accident.

woman on a couch with a headache from a concussion and hand on her forehead

Head Injury Victims Might Experience Mood or Behavioral Changes

Psychological trauma is often associated with car crashes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition, and people with PTSD may experience flashbacks if they see a collision or hear about one on the news.

Other PTSD symptoms to monitor for are:

  • Change in eating habits
  • Startling easily
  • Severe anxiety or depression
  • Negative thinking
  • Hopelessness
  • Inability to concentrate

These feelings are entirely normal following an accident, but it’s still critical to address these symptoms by speaking to a therapist.

Bruising, Swelling, and Stiffness Occur from Internal Injuries

Since it can take a few days before the blood from a broken vessel seeps into your skin, bruises won’t show up right away. However, you should always consult a doctor about any bruises or discoloration. Internal organs, tissue, or bones may be damaged.

As sprains, pulled muscles, and damaged tissue try to heal, the impacted area will typically swell, which can add to stiffness and reduce your range of motion. Swelling and stiffness are the first signs of an internal injury, but it could take a few more days to feel the full extent of the damage.

doctor looking at a spinal xray of a patient injured in an accident
doctor looking at a spinal xray of a patient injured in an accident

Bruising, Swelling, and Stiffness Occur from Internal Injuries

Since it can take a few days before the blood from a broken vessel seeps into your skin, bruises won’t show up right away. However, you should always consult a doctor about any bruises or discoloration. Internal organs, tissue, or bones may be damaged.

As sprains, pulled muscles, and damaged tissue try to heal, the impacted area will typically swell, which can add to stiffness and reduce your range of motion. Swelling and stiffness are the first signs of an internal injury, but it could take a few more days to feel the full extent of the damage.

Skilled Car Accident Attorneys on Long Island

You only have two years to file a personal injury claim against a negligent driver on Long Island, NY, but you should also receive medical attention right away. Your health should be your top priority, so you can count on the attorneys at The Barnes Firm to put your best interests first.

While you focus on your recovery, our best Long Island car accident attorneys will investigate your case, negotiate with insurers, and represent you throughout the entire process. We are seasoned in New York’s injury laws and have a significant track record of high settlements and satisfied clients. Complete our contact form or call to schedule a free consultation.

The Barnes Firm (800) 800-0000

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