Car accidents can be a traumatic experience for anyone involved, regardless of their physical condition. However, if you have a previous injury, a car accident can further complicate your health situation. The impact of a car accident can exacerbate pre-existing injuries and potentially cause new injuries that require medical attention. In this article, we will explore what happens if you have a previous injury but get involved in a car accident.

Exacerbation of Previous Injuries

If you have a previous injury, such as a back injury, a car accident can worsen your condition. The impact of a car accident can cause your body to experience additional trauma, leading to increased pain, inflammation, and discomfort. For example, if you have a herniated disc in your back, a car accident could cause the disc to move out of place, increasing pressure on the nerves and causing severe pain.

New Injuries

In addition to exacerbating pre-existing injuries, car accidents can also cause new injuries. For example, a car accident can cause whiplash, a type of neck injury caused by sudden forward and backward movements of the head. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the neck. Other common injuries that can occur in car accidents include broken bones, lacerations, and traumatic brain injuries.

Delayed Symptoms

Sometimes, the symptoms of a car accident-related injury may not appear until several days or even weeks after the accident. This is particularly true if you have a pre-existing injury. For example, if you have arthritis in your knees, you may not feel any pain or discomfort in your knees immediately after a car accident. However, as the inflammation and swelling in your knees increase, you may begin to experience pain and stiffness in your joints.

Medical Treatment

If you have a previous injury and are involved in a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you do not feel any immediate pain or discomfort, it is still essential to get checked out by a medical professional to rule out any underlying injuries. Your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to determine the extent of your injuries and develop a treatment plan.

Legal Considerations

If you are involved in a car accident and have a pre-existing injury, it is important to inform your insurance company and your lawyer if you have one. Your lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. In some cases, you may be entitled to compensation for the exacerbation of your pre-existing injury, as well as any new injuries you sustained in the accident.

If you have a previous injury and are involved in a car accident, it is essential to seek medical attention and inform your insurance company and your lawyer, if you have one. A car accident can worsen pre-existing injuries and cause new injuries that require medical attention. By taking the necessary steps to protect your health and legal rights, you can minimize the long-term impact of a car accident on your life.