Some auto accident injuries may appear over time

If you are in a Massachusetts motor vehicle accident, there are many reasons not to accept a fast settlement offer without thinking about the offer carefully.

One reason is that your injuries may not be apparent to you in the hours and days following an accident. As one example, soft tissue damage to one’s muscles, tendons and ligaments may only appear over time.  They may even be confused early on about what exactly is causing their symptoms, thinking that their injury is just a normal ache or pain.

As they develop, the symptoms of soft tissue injuries are serious, and they can last for a long time, even indefinitely. Aside from burning or other pain, a person can experience range of motion issues or weakness. More serious symptoms include paralysis or numbness.

Soft tissue injuries have many causes. Significant force on the body can cause or aggravate soft tissue injuries such as whiplash. Even at lower speeds, the impact of a motor vehicle accident is enough of a blow to cause a soft tissue injury.

Massachusetts accident victims should make sure they understand their rights

The bottom line is that a Worchester accident victim should not assume they are okay just because they are able to walk away from an accident with no apparent physical injuries. It is always a good idea to visit a qualified medical provider after a car or truck accident.

Also, a victim should be careful with accepting a quick settlement from the responsible driver’s insurance carrier. They carrier will almost always require a victim to waive their legal rights to file a personal injury case in exchange for payment.

If they act too quickly, victims may find they agreed to payment that is far less than full compensation for their injuries.

Even if they do not think they are hurt in the hours following an accident, victims of a negligent driver should still take the time to make sure they know their legal rights and alternatives.