Car accidents can lead to injuries that don’t show up right away. Sometimes, the pain and complications from these injuries take time to appear. Injuries to areas like your back, shoulders, neck, or other parts of your body may not heal properly, causing long-term effects that can impact your quality of life. Understanding these injuries, how they can affect you over time, and knowing when to seek help is essential.
Why some injuries take time to show
After an accident, the adrenaline and stress may mask certain injuries. You may feel fine immediately afterward but notice lingering pain or stiffness weeks or even months later. This is particularly true for soft tissue injuries, which involve muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The symptoms might not show up immediately but can worsen with time. It’s important to pay attention to subtle signs like neck stiffness, headaches, or lower back pain.
How long can these injuries last?
Some injuries might never fully heal, leading to long-term discomfort. Chronic pain from back or neck injuries, for example, may require ongoing treatment, physical therapy, or even surgery. In some cases, these injuries can significantly affect your ability to work, perform daily activities, or maintain a good quality of life. It’s essential to track any new symptoms and discuss them with a healthcare provider, as they might be linked to your accident.
Statute of limitations
If you’re dealing with long-term issues from a car accident that happened a few years ago, you need to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in New Jersey. The state allows you two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If you wait too long, you might lose the right to pursue compensation for your injuries. Keep this in mind and consult a lawyer if you’re experiencing ongoing problems from an older accident.
You should keep a detailed record of your injuries and treatments. This documentation can be helpful if you need to prove that your long-term injuries were caused by the accident.
If you’re dealing with injuries that have lingered or worsened over time, make sure to understand your rights and take action before it is too late.