Concussions are an unfortunate yet common occurrence after car accidents. Even minor accidents and fender-benders can lead to a concussion. Unfortunately, as the symptoms of a concussion are not always immediately apparent, many victims will go home instead of seeking medical attention. Avoiding medical care for these types of head injuries, however, can have serious consequences.
Though concussions can range from mild to severe, they are all generally categorized as a type of traumatic brain injury, and if they are left untreated, it can lead to complications. For this reason, it’s important to understand how concussions can occur and what warning signs to look out for after an accident.
If you suspect you have sustained a concussion, seek immediate medical attention and get in contact with an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can review your case and help you determine the best course of action to get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and any other damages you may have suffered as a result of the car accident.
What is a Concussion and How Does it Occur in a Car Accident?
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that results from bumps, jolts, or blows to the head. They can also occur when the force is placed on the body, causing the head and brain to shake or whip violently back and forth. When this happens, it can damage brain cells and chemically alter the brain, affecting brain function.
Concussions can occur in various situations, such as sporting accidents, fall injuries, and blows from falling objects—but the most common causes of concussions are car accidents. This is because even in minor collisions, the force from the impact can cause the body and the head to move or jerk rapidly in a back and forth motion, which can shake the brain. And the more severe the accident, the more severe the concussion is likely to be.
How Can I Tell If I Have a Concussion?
Concussions do not always result in outward physical signs, which can sometimes make it difficult for victims to determine if they have one or not. However, even if you didn’t hit your head after a car accident, it is always best to get checked out just in case. Signs of a concussion are often the first thing a doctor will check for.
Some symptoms that could appear immediately or be delayed that you should watch for include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
- Drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of balance or lack of coordination
- Slurred speech
- A glassy or dazed appearance
- Delayed responses and reaction times
- Memory loss and forgetfulness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping for extended periods
- Changes in taste and smell
Even if you only have a mild headache after a car accident, it could be a sign that you have sustained a traumatic brain injury, and you should get checked out as soon as possible. Delaying treatment for a concussion can lead to complications such as second impact syndrome, additional brain injuries, post-traumatic vertigo, and more.
What Should I Do After Sustaining a Concussion in a Car Accident?
Immediately after you are involved in a car accident, you should get checked out by emergency medical responders or have someone take you to the hospital or your doctor as soon as possible. After being examined, it’s important to get in contact with a personal injury attorney. A personal injury claim can help you cover the cost of medical expenses and other damages, such as loss of income while recovering, emotional distress, car repairs, and more.
An attorney can help you gather evidence to prove fault, which will be necessary to get compensation from the negligent party’s insurance company. Often, insurers will try to offer quick settlements or even deny claims altogether to reduce the amount of money they have to pay to car accident victims. If you work with an attorney, however, they can advocate for your rights and ensure you are awarded the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Consult an Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyer
At Crossen Law Firm, we have over 20 years of experience fighting for victims of car accidents. Concussions are not something to take lightly, and we can help you get the money you need to help cover the cost of medical treatments, in addition to compensation for other damages. Our attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights and providing compassionate service to guide you through the legal process and win your case.
Contact us today or give us a call for a free consultation at (317) 401-8626.
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