Depending on numerous contributing factors, motor vehicle collisions can result in devastating property damage and catastrophic injuries. From factors such as the angle of the collision to the occupant’s position in the vehicle, the collision can result in broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage and amputation. While medical professionals find many of these injuries easier to diagnose, many injuries take hours, days or even weeks to show significant symptoms.
Following a motor vehicle collision, it is crucial that drivers and passengers alike report any symptoms or any changes requiring further investigation. Signs and symptoms that could indicate a deeper underlying condition can include:
- Unexplained back and neck pain: Often, people downplay what they might consider a normal ache and pain under any circumstances. Following a vehicle collision, however, back and neck pain could indicate whiplash, spinal cord trauma or soft tissue injuries.
- Sudden personality changes: Mood swings, personality changes and emotional fluctuations could indicate a traumatic brain injury. Not all TBIs include structural damage to the brain. In some cases, functional damage could remain hidden for weeks until made apparent through personality changes.
- Tingling sensation or loss of movement in extremities: While it might at first seem a nuisance, tingling or a reduction in movement could potentially signal serious underlying damage. From spinal cord damage to torn soft tissue, if these symptoms become apparent, it is wise to discuss them with a medical professional.
Even after a seemingly minor motor vehicle collision, it is crucial that individuals seek a thorough medical examination and detailed diagnosis. Further, when a victim experiences new symptoms in the time following a crash, they could indicate a serious, worsening condition.