It’s always a good idea to get to a doctor as soon as you can after being involved in a car accident. But, even if you get to the doctor right away, your physician may not be able to tell whether you have certain types of injuries. Some injuries have delayed symptoms, which means that you may not realize just how badly you are hurt until hours, days, or even weeks later.
Abdominal or stomach pain is pretty normal after a car accident because of how the seatbelt hits you and keeps you in your seat. But, long-lasting abdominal pain could signify a more serious concern. If you need help collecting compensation for your medical bills after a car accident, our Atlanta personal injury lawyers can help.
What Is “Seat Belt Syndrome”?
Although wearing your seatbelt can prevent severe injuries, including getting ejected from your vehicle, they can cause some damage as well. This type of damage is so common that they now refer to it as a syndrome.
Symptoms generally only include abrasions on your skin around the neck, chest, and abdomen. But, those marks increase the likelihood that you have internal injuries as well.
It’s fairly common that you will experience some soreness and pain in your stomach due to the pressure of the seatbelt. But, when you have more serious symptoms, including the following, you need to see a doctor right away.
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Deep purple or nearly black bruising on the stomach
These could be signs of internal bleeding, which may mean that you need to get to the doctor immediately to avoid any severe complications. Sometimes small intestinal tearing and swelling are the cause. In other situations, it may be something more serious.
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What Else do You Need to Know About Abdominal Pain?
Even if you don’t have pain right away, you can still develop abdominal pain later. While some pain is normal, severe pain or long-lasting stomach pain is often a sign of organ damage, severe bleeding and swelling, and other potentially very dangerous issues. In some situations, however, it may be something as simple as a reaction to the increased stress of being involved in a car accident.
If you have any pain at all, go see your doctor. But, you should be especially concerned if your pain is lasting more than a day or two and doesn’t seem to be getting better.
Lightheadedness, dizziness, and confusion are sometimes associated with loss of blood. If you have pain paired with any of those symptoms, get to the doctor immediately.
An Attorney Can Help You Get Compensated for Your Medical Bills
You shouldn’t have to deal with serious injuries as a result of an accident you didn’t cause without seeking some sort of retribution. Our team can help you file a claim against the driver who hit you. At the very least, they should be held responsible for the pain and suffering they have caused you.
Types of Damages You Can Seek
In addition to paying your medical bills and compensating you for your pain and suffering, you can also sue the other driver for reimbursement for any repairs you had to make to your vehicle.
And if you lost a loved one in the accident, you can also file a claim for wrongful death damages. Let an experienced lawyer review your claim and advise you on which damages apply to your case that you can claim.
Contact Our Experienced Attorneys Today for Help with Your Claim
Internal bleeding or other more severe injuries not only need more extensive medical attention but also warrant legal attention as well. John Foy & Associates can examine your situation and determine what your best legal options may be. Call us or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
