While traffic accidents vary in severity, each one should be taken seriously. Even if you don’t feel the need to consult a car accident attorney, you should at least get a medical evaluation. Several types of injuries can lead to serious conditions without presenting obvious physical symptoms. Some of those medical conditions are mentioned here.

4 Injuries That May Not Produce Immediate Symptoms

1. Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common in car accidents because the swift jerking motion caused by the impact can make the brain contact the interior of the skull. However, it’s easy to dismiss the symptoms of a TBI, because the primary sign of a problem is a headache.

If headaches frequently occur after the accident, get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. If you don’t get checked out by a physician, your condition may become more serious, and your car accident attorney may not be able to obtain the damages you need to recover care costs.

2. Spinal Injury

A spinal injury may start with back or neck discomfort. This type of pain can be the result of whiplash, neck injuries, or spine damage, so don’t take these symptoms lightly. If you delay a medical evaluation, your neck or spinal injury can worsen and may cause a permanent disability.

Unfortunately, a delay in seeking medical help reflects poorly on any personal injury claim you intend to make, and your attorney may not be able to obtain sufficient compensation for your future medical care needs.

3. Internal Bleeding

If your accident left you with an upset stomach, it might be more than just stress or nerves. Abdominal pain often indicates that one of your organs may have ruptured, causing internal bleeding. Any discomfort or pain you feel after an accident should prompt you to seek medical attention.

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

More commonly known as PTSD, this condition affects people who are subjected to traumatic situations, such as the victims of sexual assault or those serving in the military. Car accident victims can also develop PTSD, but the symptoms may take weeks to manifest. A physician may be able to identify the condition earlier, helping you to get into therapy before the condition becomes debilitating.

If you’re unsure how to handle the possibility of severe injuries, an experienced car accident attorney can guide you through the process. Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Associates, LLC, in La Crosse, WI, has been serving the community since 1982 and has recovered damages totaling more than $90 million for their clients. They offer friendly, knowledgeable, and professional legal services to every client, so you can trust they will give your case the personal attention it deserves. To schedule an initial consultation, visit their website or call (877) 784-1230.