Concussions from a car accident occur more frequently than you might expect. Even seemingly minor car crashes have the potential to cause a concussion. A concussion is often overlooked or dismissed as a minor issue, but it can have significant effects on your health and well-being.
In this post, we will cover what you need to know about concussions from a car accident, including how they happen, some of the noted symptoms, and how a Hiram accident lawyer may be able to help you receive compensation for your injury.
Can You Get A Concussion From A Car Accident?
Yes, you can get a concussion after a car accident. Concussions are common in car accidents and their symptoms are often noted by those who don’t even realize they are suffering from a head injury.
The sudden impact or deceleration during a collision can cause your brain to move violently inside your skull, potentially leading to a concussion. This can happen even if your head doesn't directly hit any part of the vehicle. The force of the crash alone can be enough.
Concussions can happen in various types of accidents, regardless of their severity. And even if you're wearing a seatbelt and your airbag deploys correctly, you're still at risk of sustaining a concussion. Our Hiram car accident lawyers want to stress that if you’re feeling any symptoms associated with concussions or head injuries, see a doctor immediately.
What Are the Symptoms Of A Concussion After a Car Accident in Hiram?
Concussion symptoms can be diverse. Here are some of the common signs:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Sensitivity to light/noise
- Difficulty concentrating
- Blurred or double vision
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
See the entire list here.
It's important to note that concussion symptoms may not always appear immediately after the accident. Some people may feel fine initially, but start experiencing symptoms a day or two after their accident.
This delayed onset of symptoms is why it's essential to seek medical attention after an auto accident and monitor your condition closely.
What Should I Do if I Suspect A Concussion After an Accident?
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms associated with concussions and cranial trauma, consider taking the following steps:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you suspect a concussion after a car accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Even if you feel relatively fine, some symptoms may not appear immediately, and a doctor can properly assess your condition. They may perform a neurological examination, cognitive tests, and possibly imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs to evaluate the extent of the injury.
Prompt medical attention is also important for any potential legal claims you might pursue. Having a medical record that documents your injury soon after the accident could be valuable evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Rest And Avoid Exertion
After a concussion, your brain needs time to heal. Both physical and cognitive rest are essential to your recovery. Avoid activities that require intense concentration, such as work or studying, and limit screen time on devices like phones, computers, and televisions.
Physical activities, especially those that risk further head injury, should be avoided until cleared by your doctor. However, complete bed rest is no longer recommended. Instead, aim for a balanced approach. You can gradually reintroduce normal activities as you start feeling better.
Want more practical tips from a Hiram accident attorney on steps you should take following a collision? Read our article: What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
Monitor Symptoms
Keep a close eye on your symptoms in the days and weeks following the accident. It can be helpful to note whatever symptoms you experience, their severity, and any triggers.
This information can be valuable for your doctor in assessing your recovery progress and adjusting your treatment plan if necessary. Be particularly alert for any worsening of symptoms or the appearance of new ones.
Red flags include severe headache, repeated vomiting, slurred speech, seizures, or unusual behavior changes. If you notice any of these, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Follow Your Doctor's Instructions
Adhering to your doctor's treatment plan is crucial for a smooth recovery. This may include specific rest periods, a gradual return-to-work or return-to-school timeline, and possibly medications to manage symptoms like headaches. Your doctor might also recommend cognitive or physical therapy depending on your symptoms and their severity.
Don't hesitate to ask questions if anything about your treatment plan is unclear. And, as always, be honest with your doctor about your symptoms and any difficulties you're having – this information helps them provide the best care possible.
Avoid Alcohol And Drugs
After a concussion, your doctor may tell you to avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. These substances (alcohol in particular) can interfere with your brain's healing process and potentially worsen your symptoms, and can increase the risk of further injury.
Even some prescription medications may need to be avoided or adjusted following a concussion. Always consult with your doctor about any medications you're taking, or considering taking, during your recovery period. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers too.
Be Patient
Recovering from a concussion from a car crash can take time. It’s important to be patient with yourself and not rush back into full activity too quickly. Remember that everyone's recovery is different – while some people may feel better after a few days, others might take weeks or even months to fully recover.
During this time, it's crucial to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. Returning to normal activities should be a gradual process, guided by your symptoms and your doctor's advice.
What Are the Long-Term Effects Of Concussions?
While many people recover fully from concussions within a few weeks to months, some individuals may experience long-term effects.
These can include:
- Persistent headaches
- Trouble concentrating and remembering things
- Mood changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Being extra sensitive to light and noise
In some cases, people may develop post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms persist for months or even years after the initial injury.
There's also growing concern about the potential effects of multiple concussions over time. Research suggests that repeated concussions may increase the risk of cognitive decline, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases later in life. This is why it's so important to get properly diagnosed and treated for a concussion.
How To File A Claim For Concussions from a Car Accident in Hiram, GA
Medical treatments for a concussion can be expensive, so it might be a good idea to file an accident claim. This is something you can do yourself, or have a Hiram car accident attorney help you do.
Filing a claim also involves gathering all relevant documents, including police reports, medical records, and any evidence from the accident scene. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, appointments, and how the injury has affected your daily life. When you hire a Hiram accident attorney, much of this is handled for you as they build your case.
If you decide to not hire an attorney for your personal injury claim, you will need to personally notify your insurance company about the accident and your injury. However, be cautious about giving recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers without legal advice.
We recommend consulting with an experienced car accident attorney before calling your insurance company, so you can avoid mistakes people commonly make when dealing with insurance adjusters. They can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you're seeking appropriate compensation for your injuries.
What Kind of Compensation Could I Receive?
You may be eligible for compensation covering various expenses and losses. This may include medical bills for immediate and ongoing treatment, lost wages if you're unable to work, and/or compensation for pain and suffering.
You might also be eligible for compensation for future medical care, loss of earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected, and/or damages for loss of enjoyment of life.
In some cases, you may be able to claim punitive damages, especially if the at-fault party's behavior was particularly reckless or egregious.
The specific compensation you may receive depends on factors such as:
- The severity of your injury
- The impact on your life
- The circumstances of the accident
Your Hiram lawyer could help you understand what kinds of compensation you might be entitled to.
Can I Sue for a Concussion in a Car Accident in Hiram, GA?
In Hiram, GA, as in the rest of Georgia, you have the right to sue for injuries sustained in a car accident–including concussions–if another party's negligence caused the accident.
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you may be able to recover damages as long as you're less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
It's also important to be aware of the statute of limitations in Georgia, which generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to sue.
Given the complexities involved in proving fault, it's advisable to consult with a local personal injury lawyer. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
To learn more about deadlines associated with accident claims, read insights from our Hiram car accident attorney: Car Accident Legal Timeframes in Georgia.
How Could a Hiram Accident Lawyer Help After a Concussion from a Car Accident?
Concussions from car accidents are serious injuries that require prompt medical attention. If you suspect you've suffered a concussion in a car accident, prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical care and following your doctor's instructions.
Remember that you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, especially if the accident was caused by someone else's negligence. Don't hesitate to seek legal advice from our Hiram accident attorney to learn more about your rights and options for pursuing a claim.
