A slip-and-fall accident can be shocking, but sometimes, the pain doesn’t appear immediately. Many injuries from these accidents have delayed symptoms, making it important to monitor your health after a fall. If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall, understanding when pain can start and what legal steps to take is crucial.
When Can Pain Start After a Slip and Fall?
Pain from a slip and fall can begin immediately, but in many cases, it takes hours, days, or even weeks to manifest. One of the reasons for delayed pain is the body’s initial reaction to trauma. When an accident occurs, adrenaline often kicks in, masking pain for a period of time. Additionally, inflammation and swelling do not always happen right away. As the body responds to an injury, the affected area may become sore and stiff, which can take time to develop.
Certain injuries, such as sprains, strains, and muscle damage, often worsen over the first 24 to 48 hours. Nerve damage and internal injuries can also lead to delayed pain, with symptoms emerging gradually as the body attempts to heal. In some cases, injuries like herniated discs may not be immediately obvious, making it essential to stay aware of any changes in how you feel after a fall.
Common Injuries with Delayed Symptoms
Some injuries do not present symptoms right away but can become painful as time passes. Whiplash and neck injuries, for example, may not be noticeable until a day or two after the fall when stiffness and discomfort begin to set in. Head trauma, including concussions, can also have delayed symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and confusion. These symptoms may not be evident until hours or even days later.
Back and spinal injuries are another category where delayed pain is common. Herniated discs and pinched nerves may initially feel like minor discomfort but can progress into severe pain as inflammation increases. Knee and joint injuries may not cause immediate pain but can lead to swelling, limited mobility, and long-term complications if left untreated.
Legal Considerations for Massachusetts and New Hampshire Residents
If pain starts days after your fall, you may still have the right to seek compensation. In both Massachusetts and New Hampshire, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the injury. However, waiting too long to document symptoms or seek medical attention can weaken a claim.
Proving liability is another important factor in these cases. If the fall occurred due to a hazardous condition such as an icy sidewalk, wet floor, or poorly maintained property, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Seeking medical attention as soon as symptoms appear is crucial in linking your injury to the accident and strengthening your case.
What to Do If You Experience Delayed Pain
If you notice pain after a slip and fall, the first step is to seek medical attention. Even if symptoms seem minor at first, a doctor can assess your injuries and provide documentation that may be important if you decide to file a claim. Reporting the incident to the property owner or manager is also essential, as it helps establish that the fall occurred and provides an official record.
Keeping a record of your medical visits, symptoms, and any communication related to the incident can also be beneficial. Documentation can be key when pursuing a personal injury claim. Consulting an experienced slip-and-fall lawyer can provide guidance on your legal rights and help you navigate the claims process to maximize your compensation.
Contact Kiley Law Group for a Free Consultation
Delayed pain after a slip and fall can impact your daily life and financial well-being. If you or a loved one has been injured, Kiley Law Group is here to help. With over 50 years of experience handling slip and fall cases in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding that pain can be delayed after a fall is important, and taking the right steps early on can protect both your health and your legal rights. Don’t wait—get the support you need today!
