After a car crash, it can be comforting to find no noticeable injuries. In spite of this, it is crucial to visit a doctor following a car crash because injuries and symptoms often do not manifest until days or weeks later. If you did not immediately seek medical attention and later develop symptoms, you may be wondering if you can still seek compensation.
Filing a claim for delayed injuries
Many auto accident injuries, including whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, have a slow onset and can get worse over time. You can anticipate that medical expenses will be reasonably costly, given the seriousness of these conditions. In extreme cases, a person’s symptoms may become so severe that they are unable to work.
After an accident, the victim is typically able to file a claim with their insurer or that of the at-fault driver to help cover the cost of medical bills and other damages, such as lost wages. Most insurance companies have limits on how long you have to make a claim, so it is best to check with them first.
Sometimes filing a personal injury lawsuit is the only way to recover compensation. In California, you have up to two years from the date of the accident to sue for damages.
However, waiting too long to receive medical treatment can pose a challenge. Because of how much time has passed, the other party may argue that your injuries have no direct relationship to the accident. Moreover, if you start showing symptoms more than two years after but have no medical documents to prove you sought treatment, you may not be able to submit a claim.
Do not put off reaching out for help until your symptoms become unbearable or your bills become overwhelming. If you are struggling to figure out your legal options, a personal injury attorney may provide some advice.