How Long Does Pain After a Car Accident Last?

Immediately following a car accident, no matter the severity, you may be worried about any possible injuries you’ve sustained, as well as their consequences. While you may or may not be able to identify any visible injuries on your body, it’s imperative you seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

The severity of your injuries will depend on a variety of factors like how fast the cars were traveling, the size of the vehicles involved in the accident, the use of seatbelts and deployment of airbags, and where the collision point occurred on the car.

The sooner you seek medical attention, the faster you’ll have an idea of what your injuries look like, what sort of pain and discomfort you can expect physically and emotionally, and how long your recovery process will take.

Through a series of tests like X-rays, MRIs, neurological exams, and motion tests, your physician will be able to diagnose your injuries and recommend the best possible course of treatment. Some of the most common injuries after a car accident include broken bones, concussions, whiplash, and bruising or lacerations.

It can be frustrating not knowing when your injuries and pain will go away, or when you’ll feel normal and healthy again. In conjunction with working with medical professionals, it’s important to understand the difference between recovering from a physical injury versus mental trauma.

Physical Trauma Versus Psychological Trauma

Your physical injuries may include soft tissue damage, structural injuries, or broken bones. Some injuries may only require rest and pain management. More serious physical trauma may require surgeries or physical therapy. In the event you experience minor injuries after a car crash, you can typically expect to experience some general pain and soreness for up to six weeks.

While it can be difficult to put a timeline on physical recovery, it can be even harder to predict when recovery from psychological trauma will happen. Psychological trauma after a car accident often results in insomnia, nightmares, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Time and professional help are often the best courses of action for treating injuries related to the psyche.

It’s important to remember not all injury symptoms manifest immediately following an accident. Some symptoms, like headaches, dizziness, back pain, or whiplash symptoms, may develop days, weeks, or months after. If you experience new or worsening symptoms after having already sought medical treatment, it’s a good idea to make a follow-up appointment.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, it may be in your best interest to considering seek legal representation. Our Georgia car accident attorneys are prepared to help you with your case. Contact our firm today for a free evaluation of your claim.