According to a recent study presented by the University of North Carolina, you should seek medical attention immediately after a car accident.  Statistician June Hu, MA, with the TRYUMPH Research Program presented many interesting facts during a recent annual meeting of the National Pain Society.  One of the most interesting and important facts she presented was about 10% of individuals who are injured in motor vehicle accidents suffer pain that “instead of decreasing within the first 6 weeks after the (accident) develops into non-remitting pain that may increase.”

The study further noted this widespread pain which persists for more than a year actually begins within weeks of the injury.  Patients who seek medical attention immediately after a car accident followed by continuing medical evaluation with primary care physicians were more likely to fully recover and identify potential “hidden” injuries.

The study went on to note that of the 4 million adults who go to the emergency room after a car, truck or motorcycle accident each year the “great majority of these individuals are discharged to home after evaluation, but a subset of these individuals develop motor vehicle collision-related widespread pain which is characterized by substantial suffering and functional loss.

The study was entirely focused upon motor vehicle accident victims.  It tracked 895 individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents who presented at the emergency department a median of 74 minutes after the crash.  Participants completed an interview evaluation in the emergency departments and at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year following the motor vehicle accident.

The experienced injury attorneys at Hargadon, Lenihan & Herrington (HLH) have represented many clients over the years who thought they were ok after the accident, but whom later developed painful symptoms within 3 to 6 weeks of the accident.  We highly encourage everyone to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident or see your primary care physician within 24 to 48 hours of the crash.  The failure to seek immediate medical attention can seriously limit or eliminate your ability to submit an injury claim down the road.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident in Louisville or Central Kentucky we invite you to read our client’s reviews and the recommendations of the legal industry and contact HLH or call (866) 583-9701 for a free consultation.