A concussion is an extremely serious injury, yet it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head and body suffer a blow or jolt.
Studies have shown that close to 30% of all adults believe they have had a concussion at some point in their life. This begs the question, “Would we even know the signs if we did have a concussion?” A concussion after a car accident has the potential to be a very serious injury. Unfortunately, this is an all too common vehicle accident injury for Texas drivers. A concussion has the ability to be fatal or result in life-altering disabilities should one not seek medical attention immediately.
Car accidents are one of the most common causes of concussions, and therefore, anyone involved in a car crash should be aware of the signs and symptoms of this dangerous condition. Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person but may include confusion, dizziness, nausea, ringing in the ears, headaches, and an inability to concentrate. If a person experiences any of these symptoms after a car accident they should seek medical attention immediately as a concussion is a very serious head injury and must be treated promptly.
Concussions are an incredibly dangerous consequence of car accidents that must be taken seriously by drivers and passengers alike. If you experience any of the associated symptoms after a crash, make sure to seek out medical help right away. Taking preventive measures like wearing a seatbelt and being mindful of your speed will also decrease your chances of suffering from a concussion in an accident.
Signs of a Concussion
One common misconception is if an individual did not lose consciousness, then they must not have a concussion. This is completely false information and there are many other signs and symptoms one should be aware of that this injury may have occurred. The likely symptoms will include headaches, confusion, repeated statements, slurred speech, and lack of energy.
One of the most dangerous and possibly fatal results of a missed concussion can be a hematoma. This is a collection of blood between the brain and the skull that causes a build-up of pressure that could damage the brain’s ability to function properly. In some cases, a hematoma can cause permanent damage to cognitive functioning.
How Can a Car Accident Cause a Concussion?
There are several ways a car accident may lead to a concussion. It can be caused by any type of jolt, strike or blow to the head. One example would be a passenger hitting their head on the passenger door window after the impact of the crash. Alternatively, though, it may also be caused by whiplash or a sudden violent shaking of the head.
In order to prevent concussions in car accidents, drivers should practice safe driving habits such as wearing their seatbelts, avoiding distractions while behind the wheel, and following all traffic laws and regulations. Drivers should also make sure that their vehicle is up to date with routine maintenance to ensure its optimal functioning. This means changing out worn tires, getting regular oil changes, and having brakes checked regularly. It is also important for drivers to be cognizant of their speed at all times since higher speeds increase the risk of experiencing a concussion in a crash.
What Are the Next Steps?
#1. First and foremost, get to your doctor or hospital immediately. The proper medical treatment is essential to increase the chances of a good functional recovery and to rule out any life-threatening injuries. Genthe Law Firm always advises their clients to seek necessary medical care at the soonest available opportunity to ensure they get on the right track to optimal health and recovery.
#2. If it is believed a concussion has occurred as a result of a car accident, get a referral for the appropriate diagnostic imaging. This will detect if you have suffered a concussion. It is not possible for a doctor to treat a patient unless they know exactly what is causing these symptoms.
#3. The sooner one documents, the better. This ensures future problems with insurance companies will be easier to avoid. Immediate visits to emergency rooms or urgent care will provide the proper evidence to insurance companies that the crash was the cause of the injuries. Early treatment creates a clear relationship between the injury and the accident which makes it more likely the insurance company will pay for your medical care.
#5. Don’t try to “power through the pain.” This is a very serious injury that has the ability to cause permanent pain. This injury can get worse over time and lead to something much more serious.
Contact a Firm You Can Trust to Recoup Financial Damages for Your Pain and Suffering
Talk to a personal injury attorney who is well-versed and experienced in helping those injured in a car accident. At Genthe Law Firm, our consultations are always free. We can assist in reviewing medical records as well as treatment to ensure you are getting the care necessary. We will help you assess what your claim may be worth should your injuries be the direct result of someone else’s negligence.
