Car crash victims in Mississippi may be filing a personal injury claim in the near future. What they should keep in mind is that some of their injuries may not become apparent until later. The following are just some of the conditions that can be delayed.
Brain injuries, especially concussions, can appear later and give victims a headache. Headaches may also signal a neck injury or blood clot. Whiplash is another condition commonly missed at first, but it may manifest itself in the form of neck and shoulder pain. Back pain may signify whiplash, too, or it may point to a herniated disc. Those who feel pain, numbness and tingling in their lower back may have this.
If victims develop deep bruising on their abdomen and suffer from headaches or dizziness, then there’s a chance that they have internal bleeding. Other times, victims may begin to suffer emotionally from a crash. Depression, anxiety and even post-traumatic stress disorder are not uncommon. Personality changes stemming from head trauma can also appear long after a crash.
As long as victims have not signed a release of liability form with the responsible party’s auto insurance company, they can seek compensation for delayed injuries. Usually, they should wait until they have reached what’s called maximum medical improvement.
Victims of a car crash who are wondering if they can seek compensation for their injuries may do well to see a lawyer for a case assessment. This state follows the rule of pure comparative negligence, so anyone can file no matter his or her degree of fault. Obviously, though, being partially at fault will make it harder to negotiate a settlement with the other side. A lawyer may determine how much victims might be eligible for compensatory damages.
