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The moments following a car accident can be disorienting and confusing. It is not unusual for you to go through the process of calling the police, exchanging insurance information, and towing your car in a daze. This, coupled with the adrenaline and shock, can prevent you from experiencing pain or injury symptoms. You might not even know you are injured for days after the accident.
In this article, we explore Late Appearing Car Accident Injuries and how they can affect your claim. If you have specific questions about this matter, consult a Fort Wayne Car Accident Lawyer.
What Is a Late Appearing Injury?
When you are involved in a car accident, you could suffer injuries. Common car accident injuries include back injuries, whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and fractures. They can manifest immediately and often range in severity from mild to severe.
However, some injuries don’t appear until days or weeks after the accident. These are called late-appearing injuries. The delay can be attributed to the shock suffered after a crash. It could also be caused by adrenaline blocking your pain.
If not handled properly, late-appearing injuries can prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve.
Seeking Medical Attention
Following a motor vehicle accident, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. This is regardless of whether or not you feel any pain or are experiencing symptoms. A healthcare provider will help determine if you sustained an injury in your accident and how severe it is. If your symptoms are late-appearing, they can also recommend how to monitor potential injuries.
Seeking medical attention also allows you access to medical records, which you can use as evidence in a personal injury claim. Most insurance companies will dismiss your claim if you cannot prove that you sought treatment within a reasonable amount of time.
Signing the Release of Liability
Once you file your claim against the at-fault party, their insurer will likely make a settlement offer. They will then require that you sign a release of liability. Doing so means that you are satisfied with the process. It also protects the at-fault party from liability of future claims, such as late-appearing injuries.
To protect your right to compensation, you should never sign a release if you have any doubts concerning your injuries. Consult with your attorney about keeping the process open until you determine the scope of your damages.
Receiving a Settlement
Your attorney will usually recommend a full medical evaluation before negotiating a settlement. They might also advise that you wait until all your injuries have manifested. Despite this, the insurance company will try to entice you with an offer. Remember, you will likely be receiving less than you deserve. Hold off until you receive a go-ahead from your doctor.
Contact a Fort Wayne Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents can be as devastating as they are unexpected. Late Appearing Car Accident Injuries can further complicate the matter as they have a direct bearing on your compensation claim. Fortunately, you can protect your right to seek damages by working with an attorney.
Have you been injured in a car accident in Indiana? Don’t be anxious to settle your claim immediately. Contact Delventhal Law Office, LLC at 260-484-6655, to discuss your case with an expert Fort Wayne Car Accident Lawyer.