If you have been involved in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may walk away thinking that you are physically fine. In fact, it is not uncommon to fail to recognize when you have been hurt in a car accident. Many people want to beat themselves up for not being more aware of the injuries they have sustained, but that is not necessary. Suffice to say that it happens. If someone else’s negligence leaves you injured in a car accident, consult with an experienced Central Texas personal injury attorney today.
Adrenaline Often Masks Pain
Car accidents physically excite your body’s adrenaline system, which is known as the fight or flight response. A car accident excites your body by instantly transporting it to a state of significant stress. Car accidents typically happen without warning, and the attendant trauma can cause your body to flood with adrenaline. This adrenaline flood can increase your heart rate, can prepare your body to perform outside the bounds of normal human capacity, and can mask your pain. It is this last that can prevent you from getting the medical help you need.
You May Not Realize the Extent of Your Injuries
If you have been involved in a car accident, your body's adrenaline response may prevent you from realizing that you have been severely injured. In fact, many accident victims are quick to explain to anyone who will listen that they are fine and that they have not incurred any injuries. Such an utterance is not only terrible for your personal injury claim but is also harmful to your health. If you have been in a car accident of any significance, it is always in your best interest to seek immediate medical attention.
Medical professionals are far better prepared to assess your physical condition after an accident than you are. Again, adrenaline can play tricks with your mind.
Hold Your Tongue
After enduring the trauma of a car accident, it is in your best interest to keep your thoughts and comments to yourself. If an officer on the scene asks you direct questions, answer as truthfully and succinctly as you possibly can. Now is not the time to become overly chatty. If you are offered medical assistance, accept it immediately. Remember that adrenaline can override your ability to assess your own physical well-being, and take any help that is on offer.