Motor vehicle accidents are largely responsible for numerous injuries across the country and are very costly to the victims. Even a small injury can result in lost wages, exurbanite medical bills and hidden costs to your family. A spouse or family member may have to loss time from work as well to help you at home or take care of unattended children. Before you waive your rights and forgo making a claim at the time of an accident, be aware of the unforeseen problems an auto accident may cost you.
In addition, be prepared for any underlying costs and be sure to engage an experienced Accident Attorney Portland OR that can advise you on your individual rights. If you have experienced medical problems from an accident, ensure that you have all the information you need to make the best informed decisions for you and your family.
Latent Medical Problems
Although you may feel fine after you have experienced a fender bender, it may take 24 to 48 hours for you to begin feeling the effects of whiplash. Known as the medical condition of torticollis, this neck injury may keep you from working for several days to weeks. The muscles of the neck that support the head are jerked during an auto accident and spasm in pain and prevent you from walking, maintaining neck alignment or holding up your head. Those who suffer from this painful condition may also experience permanent damage to the spinal bones of the neck and may require years of therapy under a physician’s care.
Back Pain and Permanent Damage
After an accident, an injury to the spinal column of the back may result in costly medical bills and precious sick time. The impact of an accident may take several days to show the type or extent of an injury. Hairline fractures in the spine may take up to 72 hours to become noticeable and weeks or months to heal. In extreme cases, people have lost the ability to use their legs due to a hidden vertebral fracture that eventually damaged their spine.
Before you feel that an accident has not affected your health or well-being, ensure that you are aware of the injuries that may cost you months or years of medical bills and lost wages. Always have a medical examination after a motor vehicle accident.
