If you have ever been involved in an accident, no matter how serious, you know how hectic the scene can be. There are police and emergency services present, and you may be too focused on worrying about other parties involved or your vehicle to realize that you have been hurt yourself. This is not just the stress of the situation, but also a physiological response. If this sounds like you, you may be suffering the results of delayed shock following an accident.

What is Delayed Shock?

In a personal injury, our brains work hard to protect us from as much as they can while stress is high – that includes putting off the onset of pain and other symptoms when it can. It accomplishes some of this with adrenaline. Adrenaline is what causes the well-known “fight or flight” response to work.

Shock varies from person to person. However, you should watch for the following symptoms after someone has been involved in a car accident:

  • Low body temperature
  • Pale Skin
  • Confusion
  • Weak Pulse
  • Quick, shallow breathing
  • Dilated pupils
  • Dizziness and fainting
  • Gastric distress

What Kinds of Shock Are There?

The presentation of shock can depend on the type of injury sustained and the severity of that injury. Types of shock can include the following:

  • Psychological Shock: this can include post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, and a general change in demeanor.
  • Septic Shock: this occurs due to a rapidly spreading, severe infection that goes untreated. Septic shock can be fatal.
  • Cardiogenic Shock: this kind of shock follows damage to the heart, and can be fatal.
  • Hypovolemic Shock: this occurs due to low fluid volume in the body, and is very serious – this is usually related to blood loss, and may require transfusions.
  • Neurogenic Shock: this type of shock occurs following an injury to the head and neck, and may prevent your body from regulating its heart rate, breathing, temperature, and more.
  • Spinal Shock: this occurs following a spine injury or fracture, and may result in paralysis.

Can I File a Claim for Delayed Injuries?

Yes, you can. Delayed injuries due to shock are one of several reasons that the statute of limitations for automobile accidents is usually three years. This gives the victim time to adequately grasp the scope of their injuries and the effect they have on their life.

If you have been injured in an accident and the onset of symptoms is delayed, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages,