Car Accidents

When you’ve been in a car accident and suffered no apparent physical injuries, you may assume that you’re fine and only need to worry about getting your vehicle fixed. That is, until you start feeling severe pain hours, days, or even weeks later. This delayed pain is more common than you might think, and it can be a sign of serious injury. 

If you’re experiencing delayed pain after a motor vehicle accident, there are steps you should immediately take to seek a medical evaluation and financial compensation for any medical bills and lost wages. In this blog, we’ll discuss what to do if you notice pain after an accident, how to obtain treatment, and what an Oklahoma car accident lawyer can do to help you obtain full and fair compensation for your injuries.

Why Does Delayed Pain Happen?

Delayed pain can occur for various reasons. After an auto accident, your body is often in a state of shock, and adrenaline can mask the pain. It’s only after your system starts to calm down that you might begin to notice aches, soreness, or more severe symptoms. This pain can be a sign of injuries that weren’t immediately apparent, such as whiplash, soft tissue damage, or even internal injuries. It’s essential to take any delayed pain seriously, as ignoring it can lead to long-term health problems.

Common Types of Injuries with Delayed Symptoms

Some accident injuries can develop slowly and may not show signs until days or even weeks later. Recognizing them and seeking timely medical attention is critical for your health and well-being. Below are some common injuries with delayed symptoms that you should be aware of after an accident.

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries after a car accident, particularly in rear-end collisions. It occurs when your head is suddenly jolted back and forth, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Common symptoms, which might not appear until a few days after the accident, can include neck pain, neck stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and even blurred vision.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, often don’t cause immediate pain. These injuries can result in swelling, stiffness, and discomfort that develop over time. They’re common in car accidents due to the force of impact on the body.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Back and spinal injuries can range from mild to severe and might not be noticeable right away. Herniated discs, spinal misalignments, and muscle strains can all cause delayed pain in the back, which might radiate down the legs or cause numbness.

Head Injuries

Even if you didn’t hit your head during the accident, the force of the collision can cause your brain to move inside your skull, leading to a concussion or other traumatic brain injuries. Symptoms such as blurry vision, headaches, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, and memory problems may not appear immediately but can develop over the next few days or weeks.

Internal Injuries and Bleeding

Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, are particularly dangerous because they often don’t present symptoms right away. If you experience chest pain, stomach pain, swelling, or unusual bruising after an accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Internal bleeding can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, so it’s critical to take any delayed injury symptoms seriously.

Blood Clots

Blood clots can develop after an accident due to injuries to the blood vessels or prolonged immobility. A clot that forms in a deep vein, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can be particularly dangerous if it travels to the lungs and causes a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms of blood clots may include swelling, redness, blood in urine, and pain in the affected area (often the legs). If you notice any of these issues, seek medical help right away.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Not all injuries from an accident are physical. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, such as a car accident. Symptoms of PTSD might include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and mood swings, and they may not surface until some time after the incident. It’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek professional help if you believe you may be experiencing PTSD.

What to Do If You Experience Delayed Pain

If you start to notice chronic pain after an accident, take the following steps to protect your well-being and get your personal injury claim started.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Don’t ignore any pain or discomfort that arises after an accident. Even if you feel the pain is minor, see a doctor as soon as possible. Medical professionals can assess your condition, diagnose any injuries, and begin treatment right away. Early diagnosis is important not only for your health but also for documenting your injuries if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.

Document Your Symptoms

Keep a detailed record of your injury symptoms, including when they started, how they’ve progressed, and how they affect your daily life. This documentation can be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies or in court. Write down any medical treatments you receive, medications prescribed, and any follow-up appointments. This information will help establish a clear link between the accident and your severe injuries.

Follow Your Doctor’s Advice

After seeking medical attention, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and treatment plan. This might include taking prescribed medications, attending physical therapy sessions, or following specific care instructions at home. Adhering to your treatment plan not only helps with your recovery but also shows that you’re taking your injuries seriously if you need to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Report Your Injuries to Your Insurance Company

As soon as you’re able, report your injuries to your insurance company. In Oklahoma, you typically have a limited time to file a claim after an accident, so it’s essential to notify your insurer as soon as you become aware of your injuries. Be detailed in your report (but be careful not to state or imply that you contributed to the accident) and provide any medical documentation you have.

When dealing with insurance adjusters, be cautious about providing statements without consulting with a lawyer. Insurance companies may try to downplay your injuries or offer a low settlement. A personal injury lawyer can help you communicate with the insurance carrier and make sure you’re treated fairly.

Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’re experiencing delayed pain after an accident, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney, especially if your injuries are serious or if you’re facing significant medical expenses. In Oklahoma, personal injury laws can be complex, and a lawyer can help you by filing an accident claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing compensation for your injuries.

An experienced attorney can also advise you on how to protect your rights and what to do if the insurance company denies your claim or offers an unfair settlement. They can represent you in court if necessary and work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, physical pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.

Avoid Settling Too Quickly

It’s natural to want to resolve your case quickly, especially if you’re dealing with medical care bills and other expenses. However, settling too soon can be a mistake if you haven’t fully understood the extent of your injuries. Delayed pain and symptoms can take time to manifest, and settling early may prevent you from receiving compensation for these issues later on. Your lawyer can help you evaluate an offer and negotiate for a fair settlement that accounts for the full scope of all traumatic injuries.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Oklahoma law has a specific time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims. The timeline is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit if you’ve been injured. However, if you discover your injuries after some time has passed, the clock may start ticking from the date you became aware of the injury. It’s important to consult with a lawyer as soon as you notice symptoms to ensure you don’t miss the deadline.

At Carr & Carr, we believe that you deserve fair compensation for your injuries, and we’re committed to helping you achieve that. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or other expenses related to your accident, we’re here to support you.

Don’t Wait to Take Action- Speak to an Oklahoma Car Accident Attorney Today

If you’re dealing with delayed pain after an accident in Oklahoma, Carr & Carr is here to help. Our experienced personal injury lawyers understand the challenges you’re facing and can guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries. We can help you with every step of your case, from documenting your injuries to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court. For more information or to schedule your free initial consultation, call our law firm at 918-201-0423.

You’re driving through Oklahoma City on a typical weekday. The sun is shining and you’re heading to work, maybe running a few minutes late but feeling good about the day ahead. Suddenly, out of nowhere, another car swerves into your lane and collides with your vehicle. 

The impact is jarring, and your mind races as you come to a stop. Adrenaline surges through your body, making it hard to think clearly, but you feel pain in your neck and back. You’re not sure what to do next, but you know that the steps you take in these moments are critical for your safety and for your ability to file a future personal injury claim.

Car accidents can happen to anyone at any time, and the experience is often overwhelming. Knowing what to do immediately after an accident can make a big difference in how smoothly you can handle the situation, from ensuring everyone’s safety to dealing with insurance claims and potential legal issues. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to what you should do after a car accident in Oklahoma, making a stressful situation a bit more manageable.

Ensure Safety and Call for Help

After a car accident, the priority should be ensuring safety. Begin by checking yourself and others involved for any physical injuries. If you find any, even if they seem minor, call 911 immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately visible but can have serious consequences if left untreated. The adrenaline and shock of the accident can sometimes mask pain or other symptoms, making it even more crucial to get professional medical attention right away. 

Once you’ve confirmed that everyone is safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safe location (if possible) to prevent further accidents or traffic congestion. Remember to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the situation. This can help prevent additional accidents and ensure that oncoming traffic is aware of the stopped vehicles. If you have safety cones or flares, use them to further increase visibility, especially if it’s dark or the weather conditions are poor.

Contact Law Enforcement

Oklahoma law mandates that drivers must promptly inform their local police department, the county sheriff’s office, or the State Highway Patrol of any car accident that results in death or injury. This step is critical because law enforcement officers will create an official report that documents the incident. This accident report can be invaluable when dealing with insurance claims and any potential legal actions: it serves as an official record that can support your version of events if there are disputes about what happened.

When the officers arrive, provide them with accurate information about the accident. Stick to the facts of what happened without embellishing or omitting details. It’s also important to avoid speculating about the cause of the accident or admitting fault at the scene. Saying things like “I didn’t see the other car” or “I think I was speeding” can be interpreted as an admission of fault and might complicate matters later. 

The determination of fault should be left to the insurance companies and your car accident lawyer based on the evidence collected. They will analyze the police report, witness statements, photographs, and any other available evidence to determine who was at fault. 

Document the Scene

Gathering information at the scene is essential. Collect names, addresses, and phone numbers of all drivers and passengers involved, along with insurance information from all drivers. Note the license plate numbers and descriptions of the vehicles, including make, model, and color. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well. Don’t forget to obtain the police officer’s name and badge number for your records.

Using your smartphone, you should also take photos of the traffic accident scene, including skid marks, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These photos can serve as crucial evidence for your accident claim and any legal proceedings that might follow. When you have time, jot down notes about the accident while the details are fresh in your mind. Include information such as the time and date, weather conditions, and a brief description of how the accident occurred.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident. The sooner you inform them, the quicker they can begin processing your auto accident claim. When you contact them, provide all the necessary details about the collision, including the date, time, location, and the other parties involved. If you have any photos of the scene, damage to the vehicles, or any injuries, share these as well, as they can be crucial pieces of evidence.

Be honest in all your communications with them, providing a factual account of the accident without embellishing or leaving out details. However, it’s important to avoid admitting fault, either explicitly or implicitly, as this determination will be made later based on the collected evidence and assessments by the insurance companies and lawyers. 

They may ask you to provide a written or recorded statement- speak to an experienced car accident attorney before complying. Oklahoma follows the comparative negligence rule, where your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault, and many insurance providers look for evidence of wrongdoing to reduce or even eliminate your financial compensation: a degree of fault over 49% can prevent you from seeking a settlement.

Your insurer will likely assign an adjuster to your case who will evaluate the damage to your vehicle, review the police report, and potentially speak with witnesses. Keep all your communications with the insurance company professional and organized. Document your conversations, including the names of the representatives you speak with and the information you provide. This documentation can be helpful if there are any disputes or follow-up questions later in the process.

Keep Records

Maintain detailed records of everything related to the auto accident. Start by keeping all medical records, including initial evaluations, follow-up visits, prescriptions, and any specialist consultations. These records will help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the necessary treatments, providing a clear picture of your medical expenses.

You should also gather repair estimates for the property damage to your vehicle. Obtain multiple estimates from certified mechanics or repair shops to ensure you have a well-rounded understanding of the costs. Keep all related receipts, including those for any immediate repairs made to keep your vehicle operational and safe. If you need a rental car while your vehicle is being fixed, save all rental car receipts. 

Document any other accident-related expenses incurred. This can include transportation costs if you have to use alternative methods to get to work or appointments, costs for medical devices or equipment, and any out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the accident. Keeping a detailed log of these expenditures will help you accurately report them to your insurance company and ensure you are fully compensated.

Get Legal Advice From an Experienced Accident Attorney

If you’re facing significant damages, injuries, or disputes with your insurance company, it is highly advisable to consult a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can explain the legal implications of the motor vehicle accident, what compensation you may be entitled to, and the best course of action to take. 

A car accident attorney can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. These providers often aim to minimize payouts, and having a skilled negotiator can be a huge advantage. Your lawyer will handle communications with the insurance adjusters, ensuring that your case is presented clearly and that all necessary documentation is provided. They can challenge any lowball offers and work to secure a settlement that fairly reflects the extent of your damages and injuries.

Moreover, if the insurance company disputes your claim or refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can represent you in court. Legal representation is a huge advantage if your case goes to trial, as your lawyer will have the experience and legal acumen needed to present evidence, question witnesses, and make compelling arguments to the judge or jury. An attorney can also manage all the procedural aspects of a personal injury lawsuit, from filing the necessary paperwork to meeting critical deadlines.

In addition to these primary roles, a personal injury lawyer can also assist with other important aspects of your case. They can help gather additional evidence, such as obtaining traffic camera footage, securing expert witness testimony, or reconstructing the motor vehicle accident scene. This thorough approach can strengthen your case and improve your chances of a positive result.

Furthermore, a lawyer can guide you on the long-term implications of your injuries and damages. They can help you account for future medical care, rehabilitation costs, lost earning potential, and other long-term consequences in your claim. This forward-thinking approach ensures that your settlement or court award covers not just immediate expenses but also future needs.

Addressing Medical Bills

Ensure all your medical attention expenses are documented and submitted to your insurance company. If the at-fault driver’s insurance does not cover all your medical bills, your health insurance may cover the remaining costs. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments and follow-up care. 

Continue to monitor your health in the weeks and months following the accident, as some injuries may have delayed symptoms. Additionally, consider seeking support from a mental health professional if you’re struggling with emotional distress related to the accident.

Questions? Get a Free Consultation From an Oklahoma Car Accident Lawyer

Dealing with the consequences of a car accident can be challenging, but knowing the right steps to take can make the situation more manageable. From ensuring immediate safety to handling insurance claims and understanding legal considerations, each step is vital in protecting your rights and securing the fair compensation you deserve.

At Carr & Carr, we have extensive experience handling car accident cases and can provide the legal support you need during this difficult time. With offices in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa, we are well-positioned to assist you no matter where you are in the state. Our dedicated attorneys will help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. For more information or to schedule your initial consultation, call our law firm at 918-201-0423.

Related: Delayed Pain After an Accident: What to Do

A Locust Grove woman was killed Sunday in a two-vehicle crash in Delaware County.

Haleigh Witt, 25, was driving on U.S. 59 about 2:15 p.m. The preliminary report states Witt was pinned nearly three hours inside her vehicle; she was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash about a mile south of Jay.

Continue reading “25-year-old Woman from Locust Grove Killed in Crash”

Monday, December 6, 2021

A nine-year-old boy has been pronounced dead at Stillwater Medical following a collision on State Highway 33 and Fairgrounds Road, near the Liberty Church of Perkins and Frank’s Diesel Service. The child, whose name has not been released as of yet, sustained head and trunk internal injuries reports Oklahoma Highway Patrol. 

According to the OHP report, Sarah Davidson, 31, of Cushing, was driving a 2015 Honda Pilot carrying four children from Perkins. 

Stillwater News Press reports, Davidson was transported by Cushing Fire to OU Medical with head and trunk internal injuries. One of her passengers, an 11-year-old boy, was transported by Cushing Fire to OU Medical with head injuries.

Continue reading “Fatal Collision in Perkins, OK”

A man was fatally crushed between two cars just after midnight on Saturday, November 6^th in Oklahoma City.

The crash happened on SW 3^rd Street and MacArthur near Walmart at about 12:30 a.m.

The man crashed into the rear of another vehicle, he was then standing in front of his vehicle and behind the struck car. A third driver then crashed into the back of the man’s vehicle, causing him to be crushed between his vehicle and the rear-ended car.

The man was pronounced dead after the incident. He was not immediately identified. At this time we are unclear if the other drivers were hurt.

A hit and run collision at around 9:15pm on Tuesday, October 5 at Admiral Boulevard and Utica Avenue in Tulsa has left a longtime 911 dispatcher dead. The intersection at Admiral and Utica hosts Admiral Park and Robertson Tire.

Mary Byers served Tulsa for 26 years as a 911 call taker, dispatcher, and supervisor.

Tulsa police say the man alleged to have hit her, 27-year-old Cody Carrell, turned himself in later, on Tuesday. In an arrest report it was stated Carrell ran a red light and hit Byers car. Speed is believed to be a factor in the accident.

Continue reading “Tulsa 911 dispatcher killed in hit and run”

A 69-year-old woman was killed, and another person was not seriously injured when a SUV hit two pedestrians Monday, September 13 in Northwest OKC.

A Nissan was heading West on NW 23^rd at N Pennsylvania Avenue when it hit two people crossing 23^rd St. The intersection includes a 7-Eleven, Raising Cane’s, McDonald’s, and EZPawn. The neighborhood is close to Oklahoma City University and Shepherd Historic District. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators are still looking into the details. The driver is cooperating.

Continue reading “Pedestrian killed in Oklahoma City crosswalk”

In Broken Arrow, at Elm Place and between Tucson Street and Jasper Street, a motorcyclist has died from injuries after a wreck with a car on Saturday, August 28, 2021.

First responders arrived on the scene around 9 a.m. and pronounced the motorcyclist dead. The driver of the car suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Police are still investigating the wreck and have not released the names.

Related:

Oklahoma Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

A woman is dead after crashing into a pole in midtown Tulsa on Tuesday afternoon near 31^st and Joplin.

Kaylesha Houston was one of two cars speeding Tuesday afternoon. Houston was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe and another person was driving a red Dodge Charger east on 31st Street near Joplin Avenue at speeds of around 70 mph about 3:30 p.m. “Houston tried to change lanes and her Tahoe spun out of control, hitting the utility pole,” reports Tulsa Police Sgt. Will Dalsing.

Continue reading “Deadly Crash Near 31st and Joplin”

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reports two drivers died and another person was injured in a three-vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday along Hwy 3, about five miles north of Earlsboro in Pottawatomie County.

On Wednesday, August 11, just after 8a.m. emergency crews were called out to the crash.

The intersection is near Crows Farm Market and Fairview Baptist Church.

Investigators say a 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck, driven by 44-year-old Jason Prine, was heading eastbound on Hwy 3 when the truck crossed the center line.

The accident occurred on Hwy 3, just west of Valleyview Road.

Continue reading “2 Deaths in Three-Vehicle Wreck in Shawnee, Oklahoma”

Oklahoma Highway Patrol says one is dead and another is in critical condition after a wreck in Creek County Friday, August 6.

OHP says it happened around 5:08 p.m. near Highway 33 and South 209th West Avenue in Sapulpa. The intersection near the Blue Bell Church.

They say three vehicles were driving in the westbound lanes when one slowed down to make a turn. The driver behind them slowed down but a third person driving a 1999 Peterbilt semi-truck did not. Troopers say the semi overtook the two cars in front, crushing them and killing one and sending another to the hospital. The semi driver, Charles Stuart, 44, of Glencoe, Oklahoma was not injured.

Continue reading “Oklahoma Highway Patrol identifies victim in fatal crash in Creek County”

Around 8:25 a.m., emergency crews responded to a fatality collision on US-75 northbound at the intersection of 96th St North, about three miles west of Owasso, according to the accident report. This intersection includes DaVco Mechanical Contractors, Grace Baptist Church, and U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer.

Continue reading “Tuesday, July 20, a Pryor woman was killed in a car accident near Owasso.”

What is GAP insurance?

GAP Insurance stands for Guaranteed Asset Protection Insurance.

This is insurance that can be purchased at the time you buy an automobile. which provides you with protection in the event your vehicle is totaled out in an accident. It pays any additional difference that is owed between the actual cash value of the vehicle and the balance of your loan.

This is important coverage to consider when buying a vehicle since most vehicles depreciate in value faster than the loan is paid off. New cars lose value the moment they are driven off of the sales lot, 20-30% in the first year.

Continue reading “What Is Gap Insurance?”

We have covered uninsured motorist coverage in the past, specifically if you should purchase the coverage or not.

Now, our Oklahoma City car accident attorneys are answering some of the more common questions we’ve been asked about this additional insurance policy.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our law firm today.

Continue reading “Common Questions About Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage”