Persistent Lower Abdominal Pain After a Car Accident? Know Your Legal Options

Car accidents can leave victims with a wide range of injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. If you’re experiencing persistent lower abdominal pain after a crash, it could be a sign of a serious internal injury. Ignoring the symptoms or delaying medical attention could lead to severe health complications, making it critical to understand your legal rights and options. In New Jersey, accident victims have the right to seek compensation for injuries caused by another party’s negligence. Knowing how to navigate the legal process and protect your rights can help ensure you receive the medical care and financial support you need.

Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain After a Car Accident

Lower abdominal pain after a car accident can be caused by various injuries, some of which may require urgent medical attention. The force of impact in a collision can lead to significant trauma, even if outward signs of injury are not immediately visible. Common causes include:

• Seatbelt Syndrome: The seatbelt is designed to protect you during a crash, but the pressure it exerts during a collision can cause internal bruising, organ damage, or even fractures in the lower abdomen. This is particularly common in high-speed accidents or when a person is thrown forward suddenly.
  
• Internal Bleeding: Damage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or intestines can cause hidden bleeding, leading to severe complications if untreated. Symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or unexplained weakness could indicate internal bleeding and should not be ignored.
  
• Hernias: The impact of a crash can create weaknesses in the abdominal wall, leading to hernias where internal organs push through muscle tissue. Hernias can become painful over time and may require surgical intervention.
  
• Pelvic Fractures: A high-impact collision can result in pelvic fractures, causing significant pain, difficulty walking, and potential complications with nearby organs. This type of injury often requires extensive medical treatment and physical therapy for recovery.
  
• Bladder or Bowel Injuries: Trauma to the lower abdomen can cause damage to the bladder or intestines, which may result in difficulty urinating, blood in urine, severe pain, or even life-threatening infections if left untreated.

These conditions can worsen over time if left untreated, so seeking medical attention as soon as symptoms appear is critical. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, lower abdominal pain that develops days or weeks later should not be ignored.

Medical Steps to Take if You Experience Persistent Lower Abdominal Pain

If you experience persistent pain in your lower abdomen after an accident, follow these steps to protect both your health and your legal rights:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if the pain seems mild at first, it could be a sign of an underlying serious injury. Visit an emergency room or urgent care center as soon as possible.
  
• Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your pain levels, medical visits, and any limitations in daily activities. Note any changes in symptoms over time, as this documentation may be crucial for your personal injury claim.
  
• Follow Up with Specialists: If initial tests don’t reveal an issue, consult a specialist for further evaluation. Internal injuries may require diagnostic imaging such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to detect hidden damage.
  
• Follow Doctor’s Orders: Adhering to prescribed treatments and physical therapy can help with recovery and support your claim. Failing to follow medical advice could be used against you in a personal injury case.
  
• Keep All Medical Records: Request copies of your medical records, test results, prescriptions, and bills. This evidence will be essential when seeking compensation.

How Persistent Pain Can Affect Your Personal Injury Claim

Chronic pain can impact your quality of life, ability to work, and daily activities. In New Jersey, personal injury claims consider both economic and non-economic damages. Lower abdominal pain that persists may qualify for compensation under:

• Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, diagnostic tests, surgery, medication, and ongoing therapy. Serious abdominal injuries often require long-term treatment, which should be factored into your claim.
  
• Lost Wages: If your injury affects your ability to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, including potential future earnings if your ability to work is permanently affected.
  
• Pain and Suffering: Chronic pain can lead to emotional distress and reduced quality of life, which may increase your compensation. Courts consider the severity of pain, its impact on daily life, and the psychological effects of dealing with ongoing discomfort.
  
• Disability and Future Medical Costs: If the pain results in long-term disability or requires ongoing treatment, future medical costs should be included in the claim. A lawyer can work with medical experts to estimate these expenses accurately.

Compensation for Lower Abdominal Pain in an NJ Car Accident Claim

New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will pay for initial medical expenses regardless of fault. However, if your injuries are severe, you may be eligible to file a claim against the at-fault driver for additional damages.

Under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Exceptions exist for certain circumstances, such as injuries that were not immediately discovered. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to pursue compensation.

What to Do If the Insurance Company Denies Your Claim

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by disputing claims. If your claim is denied:

• Request a Written Explanation: Insurers must provide a reason for denial, which can help determine your next steps. Understanding the specific reason for denial can guide your response.
  
• Gather Additional Medical Evidence: Further documentation from specialists may strengthen your case. A second medical opinion may provide new insights into your condition.
  
• Consult a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer: An attorney can negotiate with the insurer or file a lawsuit if necessary. Experienced lawyers understand the tactics insurance companies use to undervalue claims and can help counter them.

Why You Need a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating a personal injury claim while dealing with persistent pain can be overwhelming. A skilled New Jersey car accident lawyer can:

• Assess the Full Value of Your Claim: Ensuring you seek compensation for both current and future damages. They will consider factors such as ongoing treatment needs, loss of earning potential, and emotional distress.
  
• Handle Insurance Negotiations: Prevent insurers from lowballing your settlement and pushing back against unfair denials.
  
• Represent You in Court: If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney can take legal action on your behalf.

If you’re suffering from persistent lower abdominal pain after a car accident, don’t wait to take action. Contact Rosengard Law Group today at (856) 284-6446 to book a free consultation. We don’t charge any fees unless we win your case.