You may walk away from a low-speed rear-end collision thinking you are fine if a little shaken by the incident.
Yet when symptoms of a possible injury appear a few hours after the crash, you realize it would have been wise to see a doctor promptly.
Frequency of rear-end crashes
According to a study released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions are responsible for about 29% of all the serious injuries or fatalities that occur in roadway crashes. Driver distraction is a major cause of rear-enders; the motorist in the following vehicle does not see that the car ahead has slowed or stopped.
The reaction of the human body
Since it is not designed to fend off the unexpected and violent impact of a car crash, the human body releases chemicals such as adrenalin that can temporarily disguise pain or injury. Therefore, even if you feel OK after the accident, you should seek prompt medical attention. If you have underlying injuries, your doctor can begin early treatment so as to avoid future complications. The doctor will also prepare a medical report linking your injury directly to the rear-end collision.
Claim for compensation
A seemingly minor rear-end collision can have major consequences. You could have a serious neck, back or head injury despite lack of symptoms at the time of the crash. Insurance companies have criteria to follow when assessing injury claims. An advocate working on your behalf can use the doctor’s report to assist in negotiating for maximum compensation to cover your current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. Even if you delay for a few hours following the crash, you are wise to seek medical care as soon as you experience symptoms.