Concussions After a Car Accident
One of the most common injuries that individuals suffer after a car accident is a concussion. This is a serious injury that often goes undiagnosed because those involved in car crashes or other types of personal injury accidents do not realize that they may be experiencing more than a severe headache after the accident. However, if a concussion is not medically treated promptly, it can cause permanent consequences or even death.
What is a concussion?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines concussions as:
A type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.
While concussions are often referred to as mild or minor brain injuries, they can be life-threatening and debilitating, leading to long-term disabilities or fatalities.
How does a car crash cause a concussion?
A car crash can cause a concussion in several ways primarily due to the tremendous force and impact from the accident. The sudden movement can cause the brain to rapidly bounce around the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, and tearing of brain cells. Additionally, the head may strike hard objects inside the vehicle, such as the steering wheel, airbags, dashboard, windshield, or seats, resulting in a severe concussion.
Common concussion symptoms
Concussion symptoms may take hours, days, or even weeks to appear. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately following an accident, even if symptoms are not apparent. Symptoms include:
- Headache
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Blurry vision
- Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
- Dizziness or “seeing stars”
- Temporary loss of consciousness (though this doesn’t always occur)
- Slurred speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Dazed appearance
- Forgetfulness
Are concussion symptoms different for children?
Concussion symptoms manifest differently in children. If your child was involved in a car crash, look for these symptoms:
- Vomiting and nausea
- Fatigue regardless of naps
- Very cranky, irritable, and easily aggravated
- Excessive Crying or whining
- Changes in walking or crawling
- Sleeping too much or not sleeping enough
- Difficulty Eating and drinking
- Disinterest in usual activities
- Appearing confused, dazed, or “staring off into space”
- Balancing issues
How are concussions diagnosed?
There are various tests that a medical provider may conduct to find, identify, and diagnose a concussion. A few of the most common tests that your doctor may order to rule out a concussion are MRI tests, CT scans, neurological exams, X-rays, blood tests, reflex tests, cognitive tests, and physical evaluations. These tests look for signs of bruising, bleeding, or swelling on the brain, as well as balancing issues, vision or hearing problems, and cognitive impairments.
How long do concussions last after a car accident?
The duration of a concussion varies depending on the severity of the brain injury, the type of treatment, and how your body responds. Recovery can take from a few weeks to several months. To increase your chances of a speedy recovery, get plenty of rest, attend follow-up medical appointments, avoid strenuous activities until cleared by a doctor, and follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan. Limiting screen time may also help.
Can you file a personal injury claim for a concussion caused by a collision?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim for a concussion caused by a collision. Given the complexities of these claims, it’s advisable to retain a personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can help prove that your concussion resulted directly from the accident caused by the at-fault party’s negligence. This can increase your chances of securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more.
If you or a loved one experienced a concussion after a car accident, the Alton-based car accident attorneys at Glisson Law are interested in hearing more about your case. Our team knows and understands how difficult it can be to recover from any type of brain injury, which is why we believe you should never suffer alone. We are a dedicated, empathetic, and compassionate firm that is ready to stand up and fight for your right to the compensation you need and deserve to restore your life after the accident. Please call our office or complete our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation today. We proudly serve Belleville, Edwardsville, Springfield, St. Clair and Madison Counties, all of Southwestern Illinois, and Missouri.