Not all motor vehicle accident injuries are immediately apparent. Some car accident injuries, such as whiplash, can appear hours, days, or weeks after your collision. If you were in a crash, it is a good idea to seek medical treatment as soon as symptoms of an injury develop.
Contact a personal injury attorney at Andrew Pickett Law to learn more about pursuing compensation for your medical bills and other car accident damages.
Delayed Car Accident Injuries
While some car crash victims require emergency treatment at the time of their accident, many do not seek medical attention until symptoms develop later.
For example, according to the Mayo Clinic, whiplash symptoms often do not present until days after a crash. Other injuries that can take time to appear include:
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruising
- Back and shoulder injuries
- Hairline fractures
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What Should You Do if You Suffered a Car Accident Injury?
Car accidents can be scary and traumatic, and in the immediate aftermath, you may experience shock, confusion, and a surge of adrenaline. Unfortunately, because of this, you may overlook your injuries until later.
If you did not receive treatment at the time of your accident, you should do so immediately, especially if you start developing any signs or symptoms of injury. Even if you do not believe you suffered harm, getting checked out is a good idea.
Seeking treatment prevents your injuries from worsening and creates a record for insurance claims or lawsuits. Furthermore, if you do not get medical attention or follow your doctor’s orders, it could hurt your chances of securing a settlement.
How to Seek Compensation for Your Car Accident Injuries in Florida
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning drivers must carry a minimum coverage amount in personal injury protection (PIP) to pay for medical treatment after a collision, regardless of who caused the accident. Remember that you must seek initial medical treatment within 14 days of your crash for PIP to apply, according to Florida Statutes § 627.736(a).
If you have severe injuries or your medical costs exceed your PIP coverage, you may be able to pursue awards from the at-fault driver or another negligent party with a liability insurance claim or lawsuit.
However, you must file your case within the statute of limitations. According to Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a), you have up to four years to file a personal injury case.
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What Car Accident Damages Can You Recover in Florida?
You can recover economic and noneconomic accident-related losses, including:
- Doctor bills
- Hospital fees
- X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, labs, and other diagnostic testing
- Prescription drugs
- Medical procedures
- Physical therapy
- Lost income and future lost earning capacity
- Physical pain
- Vehicle and personal property damages
- Emotional suffering and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Household services
- Wrongful death compensation
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An Attorney Can Help With Your Car Accident Case
Our firm can help you file a claim and negotiate a fair settlement with your PIP provider. We can also review your case and determine if your injuries and damages allow you to step outside the no-fault system. If so, we can assist with claims or legal action against the party liable for your collision and resulting damages. We can:
- Investigate your accident and determine the cause (speeding, drunk driving, vehicle problems, etc.)
- Collect evidence proving liability, including photographs, surveillance video, police reports, and witness statements
- Identify and pursue compensation for your accident-related losses
- File your claims or lawsuits and manage your case paperwork and deadlines
- Communicate with insurance agents and opposing counsel
Let Andrew Pickett Law, PLLC Help You Fight for Justice
Car accident injuries do not always appear immediately, but that does not mean they are not severe or cannot affect your life. Brain bleeds, internal damage, and other severe injuries can take hours or more to develop and lead to expensive medical care, time off from work, and lifestyle changes.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a car accident in Florida, a personal injury attorney at Andrew Pickett Law can help. We can fight for compensation for your damages and pain and suffering. We take your case on contingency and get you started with a free consultation. Contact us today.
Call or text 321-503-4014 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form