Q: I was in a car accident last week and since I felt O.K. I didn’t go to the doctor. Now I can barely turn my neck, I’m getting headaches and I wake up really stiff. What can I do?

A: If you haven’t already reported the accident to the police and your insurance company, do so immediately. It’s very important to have an official record of what happened. As far as a delayed reaction to pain goes, that is very common, especially with soft tissue injuries. While minor injuries heal on their own, others do not and can get worse over time. That’s why it’s imperative to see a doctor who can assess your injuries and make certain that you get the appropriate treatment. It’s a good idea to consult with an attorney, who will ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for everything:  the damage to your vehicle, lost wages, medical bill reimbursement and payment for pain and suffering.