Hidden Injuries After an Accident in Delaware: Why Delayed Symptoms Can Hurt Your Claim

After a car accident on Interstate 95 near Wilmington or Route 1 heading into Dover, you might walk away thinking you’re lucky to feel fine. But as any experienced Delaware car accident lawyer will tell you, some of the most serious car accident symptoms don’t appear right away. Hidden injuries, such as soft tissue damage, concussions, or internal bleeding, can take hours or even days to fully develop. Unfortunately, if you delay medical treatment or fail to report these symptoms promptly, it can seriously impact your delayed injury claim and your ability to recover full compensation.

Knowing how these hidden injuries present themselves and how to document them is essential, not just for your health, but also for preserving your legal rights under Delaware law.

Why Do Some Injuries Take Time to Appear?

Your body’s response to trauma includes a surge of adrenaline and cortisol. These chemicals are designed to protect you in the moment, but can also mask pain and stiffness immediately after a crash. Once your hormone levels return to normal, symptoms may begin to surface. Common car accident symptoms that may be delayed include:

• Neck and back pain: Often from whiplash or herniated discs
• Headaches or dizziness: Potential signs of concussion or brain trauma
• Abdominal pain: Could indicate internal bleeding or organ damage
• Numbness or tingling: May suggest nerve injuries or spinal issues
• Emotional distress: Post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety may develop well after the crash

Even a seemingly minor rear-end collision on Kirkwood Highway or an accident on Concord Pike can result in these types of injuries.

The Risk of Waiting to Seek Medical Care

Delaying treatment after a crash not only jeopardizes your health, but it can also give the insurance company ammunition to reduce or deny your claim. If you wait several days to see a doctor, they may argue your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or weren’t serious enough to require compensation.

Insurers look for any reason to devalue your claim, especially in cases involving:

• Gaps in treatment
• Missed medical appointments
• Lack of documentation connecting your injury to the crash

To strengthen your delayed injury claim, it’s essential to seek care as soon as symptoms arise and follow your doctor’s recommendations closely.

What to Do If You Notice Symptoms Days Later

If pain, discomfort, or other symptoms show up after the accident, don’t ignore them. Taking the following steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:

• Get medical attention immediately: Visit an urgent care center or primary care doctor, even if it’s been a few days since the crash.
• Tell your doctor about the accident: Make sure your medical records clearly tie the injury to the collision.
• Document everything: Keep a symptom journal, track missed workdays, and save all medical bills and receipts.
• Notify your insurance company: Let them know that new symptoms have appeared and that you’re seeking treatment.

Whether your crash happened near Rodney Square or along Route 13 in New Castle, these actions can make a big difference in the outcome of your injury claim.

How Edelstein Martin & Nelson Can Help

Navigating the claims process after a delayed injury can be challenging, especially when insurers try to minimize your damages. A skilled Delaware car accident lawyer understands how to prove causation, gather supporting medical evidence, and negotiate for the compensation you deserve. They’ll ensure your delayed injury is taken seriously and that your claim reflects the full impact of your condition.

Don’t Let Delayed Symptoms Jeopardize Your Recovery—Call Today

If you’re experiencing pain or symptoms days after a car crash, don’t wait to take action. Our proficient attorneys at Edelstein Martin & Nelson are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (302) 295-5050 today to speak with a knowledgeable Delaware car accident lawyer about your case. Your consultation is free, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.