Car accidents often cause concussions and brain injuries, which can range from mild to severe, with symptoms that can be quite debilitating. Injuries to the brain should always be taken seriously, diagnosed, and treated under a doctor’s care.
When car accidents occur, the occupants inside might strike their heads against the steering wheel, dashboard, headrest, or window. Yet concussions can also happen when the head does not hit anything; the force of impact does not have to be that strong, either.
A concussion happens when the brain shifts inside the head and makes contact with the bony underside of one’s skull. It can occur when a vehicle is stopped at a red light, and a car in the back hits the first car’s rear end, going as slow as five miles per hour.
Concussions also occur in high-speed crashes. There might not be any visible evidence on the person’s head showing impact. On the other hand, there might be significant, apparent signs of a concussion, like bruising and open wounds.
What Are the Symptoms of a Concussion?
Concussion symptoms vary widely, depending on the seriousness of the TBI. A temporary loss of consciousness can occur after a car accident, but that does not always happen. Here are some of the more common symptoms:
- Amnesia surrounding the event
- Blurry vision
- Confusion
- Delayed response to questions
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Slow responses to questions/slurred speech
Other symptoms include difficulties with concentration, memory, and personality changes. People with concussions also experience trouble sleeping, sensitivity to noise and light, and feelings of depression or anxiety. Some physical and mental symptoms might not appear for days after an accident.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
After you have been diagnosed with a concussion, it is important to follow the physician’s treatment orders for the best chance of recovery. The associated medical bills and potential loss of income can be significant, and you might be eligible for compensation for the injuries.
After your claim, the other driver’s insurance provider might contact you with a settlement offer. It might be tempting to sign that offer, and they might ask you to sign a release of any future claims. It would be best if you did not do so until you speak with a lawyer. You might be entitled to a larger compensation amount, but signing a release will waive your legal right to do that. Your physician can help determine the extent of your injury and treatment, but it is wise to speak with a car accident lawyer to learn what your case might be worth.
Our Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Represent Clients With Concussions and Other Head Injuries From Car Accidents
Car accident survivors with brain and head injuries often find that their symptoms and medical bills are overwhelming. If this has happened to you, our skilled, compassionate Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help. For more information, complete our online form or call 610-565-3701 to schedule a consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we work with clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.