Motor vehicle accidents nationwide, including Tennessee, are a frequent cause of death and life-changing injuries. In many cases, victims suffer physical and mental trauma. Negligence behind the wheel includes impairment, distractions, speeding, and disregarding road signs, traffic lights and the road’s basic rules. Furthermore, extreme weather conditions and fatigue often play roles in car accidents.
While many auto accidents cause only minor injuries, anyone involved should undergo a thorough medical evaluation because some injuries might become evident later. The body reacts to the trauma and shock of the crash by releasing endorphins. It is hormones that act as painkillers, which leave many accident victims unaware of injuries, except for fractured bones or bleeding wounds.
Once the shock wears off, the crash victim might realize that all is not well and seek medical attention. However, some hidden injuries could become life-threatening if not diagnosed within a few hours after the accident. Signs of hidden injuries include giddiness, distress and pain, which could only become evident several days later. Large patches of dark bruising could indicate internal bleeding from damage to organs.
One of the reasons why a medical evaluation is essential involves the possibility of filing a personal injury lawsuit in a Tennessee civil court. Injuries only diagnosed later might not be linked to the accident and therefore not recoverable. Suppose the crash victim can prove negligence on the part of another party. In that case, he or she might have grounds to seek damages to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other financial losses. However, as mentioned, most victims also suffer some measure of mental or emotional trauma and pain and suffering, which can also be included in the court’s documented claims for adjudication.
