Recognizing Delayed Injuries After a Car Accident in New Mexico

Car accidents can cause injuries that appear immediately, like cuts or broken bones. However, some injuries may not manifest until hours, days, or even weeks after the accident. These delayed symptoms can pose serious risks to your health and complicate your recovery.

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in New Mexico, it’s essential to seek medical attention—even if you feel fine initially. Ignoring delayed symptoms could worsen injuries and jeopardize your ability to recover compensation for your losses.

Internal Bleeding: A Silent but Serious Risk

Internal bleeding is a potentially life-threatening injury that often goes unnoticed in the aftermath of a car accident. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the bleeding and can include severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, chest or abdominal pain, and visible bruising. In some cases, you may experience signs of shock, such as rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and confusion.

Without timely treatment, internal bleeding can lead to organ damage or death. If you experience any symptoms of internal bleeding after a car accident, seek medical care immediately.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Emotional and Psychological Impact

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that can develop after a traumatic event, such as a car accident. Symptoms may take weeks or months to surface and often include intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, mood changes, and heightened emotional responses.

PTSD can significantly disrupt daily life, making it difficult to work, maintain relationships, or enjoy activities. Seeking help from a mental health professional can aid in managing symptoms and fostering recovery.

Whiplash: A Common but Often Overlooked Injury

Whiplash occurs when the neck is forced into a rapid back-and-forth motion during a collision. While it may seem minor at first, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues. Common symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, dizziness, and headaches.

Prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider can help diagnose whiplash and create an effective treatment plan, reducing the likelihood of long-term complications.

Concussions: Hidden Traumatic Brain Injuries

A concussion, caused by a blow to the head, is a type of traumatic brain injury that can disrupt brain function. Symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, and sensitivity to light or noise.

Even mild concussions require medical attention to rule out more severe brain injuries. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing prolonged effects on cognitive and physical health.

Spinal Cord Injuries: Life-Altering Consequences

The spinal cord is a critical part of the nervous system, and injuries to this area can have profound consequences. Symptoms may include loss of movement, numbness, pain, or difficulties with balance. Spinal cord injuries can result from damage to vertebrae, discs, or surrounding tissues.

If you suspect a spinal injury, avoid moving until medical professionals can provide assistance. Early treatment improves the chances of recovery and minimizes long-term damage.

The Importance of Immediate Medical Attention

Delaying medical treatment after a car accident can have serious consequences. Injuries may worsen, recovery can take longer, and your ability to connect injuries to the accident might be compromised—jeopardizing your claim for compensation.

Under New Mexico law, accident victims have the right to seek damages for their injuries. However, insurance companies often use delays in treatment to dispute claims. Seeking immediate medical attention protects both your health and your legal rights.

Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident in New Mexico

If you’ve been in a car accident in New Mexico, it’s vital to monitor your health for delayed symptoms and seek prompt medical care. At the Law Offices of Kenneth G. Egan, we are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Our experienced attorneys understand the challenges of delayed injury claims and will advocate for your best interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you. Your recovery and rights are our top priorities.

We are located in Las Cruces and are proud to service the surrounding areas, including Doña Ana, Santo Tomas, La Mesa, Fort Selden, Radium Springs, and beyond.