Minor car crashes happen almost daily. When you find yourself in a minor car accident like someone rear-ends your car, you are side swiped by another vehicle or another fender bender, chances are you may walk away with some bumps and bruises, and a sore neck.

But, what if a few days go by and your body is still hurting from the accident and something just doesn’t feel right?

“After a minor car crash, adrenaline can mask pain and injuries. Without these symptoms injuries might not be immediately obvious,” said Dr. Nathan Blankenheim, a Marshfield Clinic Health System emergency medicine physician.

Watch for these symptoms after minor car accidents

Whiplash is a common injury from even fender benders. It involves a rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, which can cause pain, stiffness, and headaches. During minor car crashes your seat belt is capable of causing internal injuries to organs like the lungs, heart, and kidneys due to the pressure exerted during the impact.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek care immediately:

• Loss of consciousness
• Bleeding
• Chest or abdominal pain or bruising
• Neck pain
• Headache
• Vision changes
• Trouble breathing
• Vomiting
• Numbness or weakness
• Back pain
• Inability to walk either due to pain or weakness

Identify when fender benders require emergency care

“It’s crucial to see a doctor after accidents, especially those where you were going faster than 40 mph,” Blankenheim said.

For serious injuries like severe burns, major fractures or uncontrolled bleeding, go to your local emergency department. For minor injuries or delayed symptoms visit your urgent care to check for any hidden injuries and obtain medical documentation, if needed for insurance purposes.  Contact your primary care provider if you have any other concerns.