How to Recognize a Concussion After a Car Accident
An experienced attorney can help protect your legal rights
A concussion is one of the most common types of car accident injuries. You might feel fine at first, only to develop symptoms hours or even days later. Recognizing the signs early is crucial, not just for your health but also for protecting your legal rights. If someone else caused your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your accident-related damages.
Insurance companies often downplay concussions, treating them as minor injuries. But the truth is, a concussion can have long-term effects. Knowing what symptoms to look for and taking the right steps after an accident can help your recovery – both physically and financially.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that happens when a sudden jolt or impact causes the brain to move inside the skull. Even if there’s no visible injury, the brain can still suffer damage, leading to serious and sometimes long-lasting symptoms.
Concussions can range in severity and are classified into three grades:
- Grade 1 (mild): A Grade 1 concussion typically causes short-term symptoms like dizziness or confusion.
- Grade 2 (moderate): Grade 2 may involve longer-lasting symptoms, such as memory loss.
- Grade 3 (severe): Grade 3 concussions are the most serious and often involve loss of consciousness.
Even if your concussion is mild or on the less severe side of the scale, it shouldn’t be ignored. Some people immediately feel the effects, while others may not notice symptoms until hours or days later. Even if the accident seemed minor, it’s important to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing any signs of a concussion.
How do car accidents cause concussions?
Car accidents can lead to concussions even without a direct blow to the head. The force of a crash, whether from hitting the steering wheel, window, or the violent movement of the head during the impact, can cause the brain to shift rapidly within the skull. This sudden motion – forward, backward, or sideways – can cause the brain to collide with the skull’s inner walls, resulting in a concussion. Even the deployment of airbags, while designed to provide protection, can result in a concussion for drivers and passengers.
Concussions can occur in many types of car accidents, including:
- Head-on collisions: Direct impact with another vehicle or object can cause the brain to move inside the skull, resulting in a concussion.
- T-bone accidents: A side impact, especially to the head or neck, can cause a jolt that leads to a concussion.
- Rear-end accidents: The sudden jerking motion from being hit from behind can cause the brain to rapidly move, leading to a concussion.
Warning signs of a concussion
Concussion symptoms don’t always show up immediately after a crash. In some cases, they can take hours or even days to appear, making it easy to ignore early warning signs. However, ignoring a possible concussion can be dangerous, as untreated brain injuries can lead to long-term complications. Pay attention to how you’re feeling and seek medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Slurred speech
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Mood changes
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of consciousness
It’s always important to get checked by a doctor after a car accident. A medical evaluation can confirm whether you have a concussion and rule out more serious brain injuries. It also provides important documentation of your injury, which can be an important piece of evidence if you need to file a claim for medical expenses and other damages.
Long-term effects
Untreated concussions can lead to long-term effects that disrupt daily life, such as:
- Persistent headaches that make it hard to focus or perform tasks.
- Difficulty concentrating on work, school, or simple activities.
- Memory problems leading to forgetfulness, like missing appointments.
- Mood changes such as irritability or depression, which can affect relationships.
- Sleep disturbances, including trouble falling asleep or feeling constantly tired.
- Sensitivity to light or noise, making it difficult to engage in regular activities.
- Post-concussion syndrome (PCS), where symptoms last for months and disrupt daily routines.
Ignoring a concussion can worsen these effects, so it’s important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Concussion treatment
If you’ve been diagnosed with a concussion after a car accident, treatment typically involves rest and gradually returning to normal activities as your symptoms improve. In the initial stages, it’s important to rest both physically and mentally, avoiding strenuous activities and limiting screen time or anything that strains the brain.
Your doctor may recommend a follow-up treatment plan that includes a gradual return to work, school, or sports, depending on the severity of your concussion. In some cases, physical therapy or cognitive therapy may be needed to help with balance, concentration, or memory issues. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice and take your time with recovery to ensure the best possible outcome.
What damages can I recover for my concussion car accident claim?
If you’ve suffered a concussion due to a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages related to your injury. These damages can help cover the financial and personal losses caused by the accident and your concussion. You may be able to recover compensation for the following types of damages:
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, prescription medications, and any ongoing treatment or therapy needed for your concussion.
- Future medical costs: If your concussion leads to long-term complications, you may need ongoing care. You can seek compensation for future medical expenses related to your concussion.
- Lost wages: If your concussion affects your ability to work, you can seek compensation for the income you lost during your recovery.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for the mental and physical toll the injury takes on your life.
Your recovery is our priority
At Browne Law Group, we understand the challenges you face after a car accident, especially when dealing with a concussion. Our team is dedicated to providing straightforward, aggressive representation to help you get the compensation you deserve. Our compassionate car accident lawyers always have your back, putting your best interests first every step of the way. If you’ve suffered a car accident concussion in Arizona, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next steps toward recovery.
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