Victims frequently experience pain after a truck accident and the resulting injuries, but what happens if your pain hits after the dust settles?

Hidden injuries are common after vehicle collisions, as some types of trauma don’t show up for days, weeks, or even months later. This can complicate a case, as the clock for the statute of limitations begins ticking when your accident happens. The sooner you recognize the signs and symptoms that something could be wrong, the better your chances of building a solid case against the party(ies) at fault in your accident.

Do you know what to watch for?

If you’re experiencing pain after a truck accident…

Be Wary of Headaches

Sure, headaches can be as common as seasonal allergies or dehydration after a hot day outdoors. However, if you’ve been in a truck accident, it’s crucial to pay close attention to any headaches you experience in the days following your accident. Headaches could be a sign of:

  • a head injury – this could range from a mild concussion to a traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • a neck or back injury – whiplash, spinal cord injuries, etc.
  • internal injuries – blood loss can cause serious headaches

If you experience a headache that continues to escalate or comes back after taking basic pain relievers, seek medical attention to rule out serious complications of your accident.

Monitor Numbness or Tingling in Limbs or Appendages

Numbness and tingling in the hands, fingers, arms, legs, feet, etc. can be alarming. Pain after a truck accident is one thing, but when you start losing feeling or experiencing tingling sensations, you might assume the worst and worry about a spinal injury. Before you panic, know that these symptoms can also indicate:

Tenderness and ongoing pain after a truck accident are red flags!

Watch for Tenderness

Tenderness of any part of the body can indicate injury. Victims certainly experience aches and pain after a truck accident, but if that tenderness persists, or worsens, you need to seek medical care. Tenderness or localized pain anywhere in the body could mean:

  • internal injuries
  • spinal injuries
  • broken bones that weren’t detected during your original exam

Confusion Can Be A Warning Sign

It’s normal to be fatigued, a bit disoriented, and out of sorts in the days following a major traumatic event like a truck accident. Again, some pain after a truck accident isn’t abnormal.  However, persistent confusion, difficulty with balance and coordination, or other “out of the normal” behaviors are not to be expected. These symptoms indicate something serious could be going on, like:

  • a serious concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • internal injuries and blood loss – the lack of oxygen to the brain can cause psychological symptoms like confusion
  • spinal injuries that could lead to weakness or instability

While the above symptoms don’t always indicate a life-threatening injury, they are red flags for truck accident victims.

I have some of those symptoms…is it too late for me to file an injury claim?

Pain after a truck accident is always worth getting checked out. While there is a statute of limitations on accident injuries in Florida, you have up to 2 years to file after your accident in most cases. However, the filing process can be lengthy. That’s why we encourage you to take the following steps after your accident:

  1. Seek medical attention ASAP. If emergency services are called to the scene of your accident, which they usually are, you’ll have triage care on-site. Depending on the severity of your accident, you’ll likely be taken to the closest hospital for a more thorough exam.
  2. If no injuries are evident, we encourage you to keep the above list of symptoms close by. In the days and weeks after your accident, monitor yourself closely. You know your body…any changes are worth a second glance.
  3. If you do experience delayed pain or symptoms, call your medical provider right away, or seek emergency care.
  4. When able, you should call an experienced truck accident attorney. The earlier you begin the filing process, the better your chances of having a solid case within the statute of limitations time frame in your state.

Brooks Law Group is here for victims experiencing pain after a truck accident.

Central Florida sees hundreds of truck accidents each year. Brooks Law Group has the skills and experience needed to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages after your crash. You don’t have to live with ongoing pain or worry about having your medical bills covered because your injuries showed up late. Our team is dedicated to advocating for your best interests and holding the at-fault parties accountable.

We proudly serve the greater Polk County and Tampa Bay areas with compassionate legal services and expert representation. Our contingency fee means you don’t pay unless we win, so you can rest and recover knowing you can afford the legal help you need.

When you experience pain after a truck accident, don’t settle for help that won’t get results. Look to Brooks.