Car accidents can lead to severe injuries for victims. While some of these injuries are immediately apparent, others may be delayed or even hidden for a period of time after a crash occurs. Often, car accident victims report having a headache after a car accident and wonder if they can still make a claim if they did not seek immediate medical assistance after the crash. Here, we want to discuss steps you can take to ensure your well-being and that you receive the compensation you deserve in these situations.
What Is A Post Traumatic Headache?
A headache that occurs after a vehicle accident is generally referred to as a post-traumatic headache because it is caused by the trauma of being involved in the collision. These headaches can be very painful and debilitating. While the pain of these headaches can occur immediately after a crash, it is not uncommon for a post-traumatic headache to begin hours or even days after the incident occurs.
What If You Have A Constant Headache After A Crash?
First, please understand the importance of seeking medical attention immediately following any car accident. Even if you do not feel much pain after a crash occurs, seeking medical assistance is the best way to ensure your well-being while also establishing a link between the accident and your injuries.
If you did not seek immediate medical care after a car accident, but began to feel a headache or other type of injury in the hours or days following the incident, go to a doctor or the emergency room immediately. A post-traumatic headache could indicate an underlying severe traumatic brain injury. Do not try to tough out a headache or write it off as nothing serious.
Speak To An Attorney About Your Case
You may need to work with an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer if you experience delayed car accident injuries. Insurance carriers are notoriously difficult to deal with, even if people seek medical care immediately following the crash. Insurance claims adjusters will use any delayed treatment as a reason to deny or reduce any settlement they make. An attorney will have the resources necessary to evaluate your case and ensure you are treated by trusted medical professionals. Your attorney will be the one to advise you on how to notify the insurance carrier so that your post-traumatic headache can be included on your claim for insurance benefits.
Common Causes Of Post Traumatic Headaches
Constant headaches after a car accident are not uncommon. When a car accident occurs, drivers and passengers often suffer from trauma to their head or neck. This could be the result of a direct blow to the head or due to the jolting or shaking of the head due to the forces of the collision.
Post-traumatic headaches can occur due to the head striking immovable objects in the vehicle such as the dash or steering wheel, pinching of the nerves in the spine or at the base of the skull, muscle injuries in the neck and upper back, herniated discs, or fracturs to the spine or skull.