8 Signs Of Delayed Injury From A Motorcycle Accident

Common Types Of Delayed Injuries

In most motorcycle accidents, the injuries are usually delayed, and the most common include: 

• Sprains;
• Whiplash; 
• Spinal cord injuries;  
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); 
• Traumatic brain injury; and the like. 

As you can see, you’re at risk for any of these injuries after a motorcycle accident due to distracted driving and others. If you likely have one, the symptoms will take time to manifest. Due to this, make it a priority to seek medical care right away.

Indications Of Delayed Injury From A Motorcycle Accident

Even if you feel fine after a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to keep in mind that some signs and symptoms of serious conditions or injuries only arise days, weeks, or months after. 

Here are several indications to watch out for that indicate an injury requiring seeing a healthcare professional:

1. Headaches  

Headaches frequently appear as a symptom following a motorcycle accident. Sadly, most regard headaches as a trivial matter. Headaches can generally indicate other conditions, such as the common cold, stress, or a migraine. Due to this, most don’t give the discomfort much attention once it arises. 

However, if you’ve recently been involved in a motorcycle accident, experiencing a headache may be a sign of whiplash, concussion, blood clot, or a more serious condition such as traumatic brain injury. Sadly, the injury can result in permanent damage or even death if left undiagnosed and not treated immediately. 

2.Neck And Shoulder Pain 

For many individuals, discomfort in the neck or shoulder is often connected to tension or poor position at night while asleep. However, both pain in the shoulder and neck could indicate a potentially serious injury, especially if it’s only days or weeks after involvement in a motorcycle accident. In most cases, shoulder and neck pain is a clear sign that you have damage to the muscles, joints, and nerves or even a spinal cord injury. 

3. Back Pain  

A motorcycle accident can put a person at risk for spinal injuries, such as pinched nerves or herniated discs, muscle sprains, or any form of damage to the spine. Most of these injuries can trigger back pain that may arise hours or even days after an accident. In most cases, the discomfort can progressively worsen over time. Sadly, chronic back pain can be debilitating and accompanied by movement limitations.  

4. Nausea And Abdominal Discomfort  

Once you experience discomfort in your abdomen, it may be due to an internal injury that took some time to manifest after a motorcycle accident. Avoid brushing off the discomfort as a minor digestive issue since it may be internal bleeding or a punctured organ. 

Sadly, internal bleeding is usually overlooked for days but can be life-threatening. Due to its hazardous nature, it’s crucial to err on the safe side by consulting a healthcare professional.

5. Tingling Sensation And/Or Numbness  

If you start to experience a tingling sensation or numbness, it indicates a nerve injury. Generally, the exact type of injury you have depends on the location where the symptoms manifest. 

For example, if you experience tingling in your arms, it’s one of the usual delayed signs of whiplash. Further, a compressed nerve or herniated disc can bring pins or needles sensation or numbness in the spinal region.

6. Impairment with Speech And Cognition  

Once you start having difficulties with concentration or memory and find it hard to understand or communicate, it may suggest a traumatic brain injury, especially if it worsens over time. It’s crucial to note that impairment in cognition and speech are evident indications of a severe delayed injury after a motorcycle accident.

7. Excessive Tiredness Or Sleepiness 

Once the adrenaline in the body starts to wear off after a motorcycle accident, it often brings about feelings of excessive tiredness or sleepiness. Generally, it’s an expected phase in which your body has a low energy supply and is currently recuperating. 

However, when you seem sleepy or tired at all times after the accident, along with persistent tiredness, it may indicate a serious injury or even depression. In some circumstances, it may be a sign of traumatic brain injury requiring a doctor immediately.

8. Unusual Mood Alterations And Anxiety 

If you have feelings of increasing anxiety, irritability, changes in mood, and nightmares, it may be a sign of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Generally, the condition can develop if a person experiences a traumatic event. In most cases, motorcycle and car accidents are common causes. Sadly, if the condition develops, it can be a debilitating ordeal for the victim. 

A healthcare professional will diagnose PTSD if a person develops symptoms for at least a month after the traumatic event, but the signs will not immediately manifest. In some cases, a person may have delayed-onset PTSD once the symptoms start to manifest after six months or longer.

Final Thoughts

A motorcycle-related road incident can happen when you least expect it. Even if you routinely observe safety precautions, you’ll always be at risk on the road. In an accident, it’s best to stay safe by seeking timely medical attention. Doing so ensures you’ll undergo an examination to pinpoint potential injuries while also the key to getting fair compensation. Regardless of the severity of the injury, make it a point to consult a healthcare professional to rule out serious injuries or conditions immediately.