Underlying injuries may not be apparent right after an accident

After a car accident, you could find yourself overwhelmed by damage to your personal property, insurance matters and more. The aftermath of a crash can leave you struggling to pick up the pieces, and you may not be completely aware of how the physical injuries you endured will affect you long-term. There are times when the true implications of an injury are not immediately apparent.

In the days and weeks after your accident, you may notice changes in the severity of your injuries and the pain you are experiencing. This could be a sign of a serious injury, and you would be wise to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you were not aware of the severity of your injuries at the time of the accident, you could have grounds to pursue a civil claim for your pain and suffering.

Signs of potentially serious problems

There are certain signs that could indicate you have a more serious injury that perhaps you realized right after your accident. It is prudent not to dismiss any of the following symptoms as they could indicate internal damage that may lead to long-term repercussions for you:

• Back or neck pain, common indicators to damage to the spine
• Tingling or numbness, signs of a possible injury to the spinal cord
• Lingering headaches, possible indication of a head injury
• Behavioral or mood changes, signs of possible head injury
• Pain in the abdomen, which may indicate internal bleeding or damage

If you are experiencing any of these things, you could have serious injuries that require immediate medical attention. It is in your interests to get the help you need to ensure you do not experience a worsening of your condition. This will also ensure you have the medical documentation you need if you choose to pursue a civil claim in the future.

Your post-accident future

It may seem like you will never be able to fully recover and move forward after your accident, especially if you notice a worsening in your condition. If you are suffering as a result of the reckless or negligent actions of another person, our Chicago injury lawyers are here to help. You could pursue a claim through the Illinois civil justice system, seeking the compensation you rightfully deserve for your pain and suffering.