Delayed Injuries After a Car Accident in California — What Victims Need to Know

Not every injury caused by a car accident is immediately obvious. Many crash victims in San Diego and throughout California discover symptoms only hours or days after the incident—sometimes when the adrenaline wears off or swelling and inflammation set in. Insurance companies use these “delays” to minimize or deny claims, but the reality is that delayed-onset injuries are common and very real.

Most Common Delayed Injuries After a Car Accident

• Whiplash and Neck Pain: Stiffness, limited range of motion, and pain may appear 12–72 hours post-crash.
  
• Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury: Headaches, confusion, memory issues, sensitivity to light/sound, or emotional changes often emerge after the adrenaline subsides. (CDC: Concussion Signs and Symptoms)
  
• Back Injuries: Herniated discs, spinal strains, and nerve impingement can develop gradually, with pain worsening over time. (Mayo Clinic: Herniated Disk)
  
• Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage: Abdominal pain, swelling, or unexplained faintness can signal life-threatening internal injuries that require immediate medical attention. (Healthline: Signs of Internal Bleeding)
  
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Bruising, swelling, or sprains may not be evident until inflammation develops.
  

Why Delayed Injuries Are Often Disputed by Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may argue that injuries reported days after a crash are unrelated, minor, or pre-existing. Victims who delay medical evaluation or fail to document their symptoms risk having claims reduced or denied. (Insurance Information Institute: Steps After an Accident)

What to Do If You Notice Symptoms After the Accident

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Visit an ER or urgent care, even if symptoms seem minor. Detailed, time-stamped medical records are critical for proving causation.
   
2. Document Everything: Keep a daily symptom diary, including pain levels, functional limitations, and emotional changes.
   
3. Notify Your Attorney Promptly: Report any new or worsening symptoms to your lawyer so your legal claim reflects your true injuries.
   
4. Do Not Sign Releases Early: Never accept an insurance settlement or sign any waiver before your injuries are fully documented and understood.
   

Legal Strategies for Proving Delayed Injuries

• Medical Expert Testimony: Your lawyer may work with physicians or specialists to connect the injury to your crash, even if symptoms appeared days later. (NIH: Legal Aspects of TBI)
  
• Accident Reconstruction: Demonstrating the mechanism of injury—such as rear-end impacts or side collisions—helps establish how delayed symptoms can develop.
  
• Prior Case Results: Phillips & Pelly has successfully recovered compensation for clients with delayed-onset injuries by presenting detailed medical documentation and expert analysis.
  

California Law Protects Injury Victims

California’s statute of limitations for car accident claims is two years from the date of the incident. (California Courts: Statute of Limitations) However, waiting to seek treatment can harm your case. Early legal and medical intervention is always best.

How Phillips & Pelly Can Help

Our attorneys understand the unique challenges of delayed injury claims. We know the insurance tactics used to discredit these injuries and have a proven record of securing fair settlements for accident victims—no matter when symptoms appear.

If you’re experiencing delayed pain, headaches, or other symptoms after a car accident, contact Phillips & Pelly today for a free, confidential consultation.