When many people think about injuries from a car accident, broken bones and bruises come to mind. If someone is fortunate to walk away from a car accident with none of these, they may consider themselves lucky. However, that may not be the case and it is better to be safe than sorry.
Small Accidents Can Still Mean Injuries
It does not matter if someone is involved in a low-speed collision or if they walked away with little damage to their car. Even what most would consider “small accidents” can cause permanent soft tissue injuries.
Do not assume there are no injuries just because there is no visible damage. Leave that determination up to medical professionals. A person might not feel like they are “injured,” but they should not take any chances.
The Unseen Injury
Soft tissue injuries, also known as whiplash, are common in rear-impact car accidents. Imagine a whip being snapped. The rope curls at the end and quickly snaps back. In a rear-impact car accident, your neck does the same thing. Ouch, right?
Many people downplay the seriousness of whiplash. The symptoms experienced can last throughout one’s lifetime, and they are debilitating and can be chronic. The problem is they do not always manifest themselves quickly after an accident.
These symptoms can include arm pain and weakness, back pain, headache, fatigue, dizziness, jaw pain, ringing in the ears, shoulder pain and stiffness, neck pain and stiffness and hallucinations.
Be Aware of Your Statute of Limitations
The clock starts ticking after your accident. Most people do not realize it, but you do not have forever to proceed with a legal action for any injuries sustained in an accident. Every state has a statute of limitations when it comes to personal injury claims. Most are two years, and that includes the State of Arizona.
Protect Yourself Legally
Not going to the hospital after being in a car accident also has legal implications. The longer someone waits, the more it is likely the insurance company will cast doubt on the extent of the injuries.
It might not seem fair, but if there is any way they can shed doubt on your injuries being a result of the accident, trust that the insurance companies will take advantage of this opportunity. In fact, many insurance companies consider this when determining compensation for your claim. The moral of the story is when in doubt, go to the hospital.
Call Torgenson Law Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or someone you know have been injured in a car accident caused by someone else, please contact our office at (602) 726-0747 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with a Phoenix personal injury lawyer today.
John Torgenson is a highly experienced personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of practice in Arizona. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Notre Dame. John has a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements, including an $8.25 million recovery for a gunshot injury victim. His expertise has earned him AVVO ratings and recognition as a Super Lawyer.
John is also a sought-after lecturer on personal injury law, sharing his extensive knowledge with peers and aspiring attorneys. Beyond his legal practice, John is an avid golfer and actively supports organizations like the Military Assistance Mission, Arizona School for the Arts, Page Balloon Regatta, University of Arizona Foundation, Junior Achievement of Arizona, and the Tim Huff Pro Bono Golf Classic.
Passionate about advocating for injury victims, John dedicates his career to battling insurance companies and corporate interests, ensuring that the rights of those who are hurt are vigorously defended.
