Warning Signs of a Concussion After a Car Crash

Car accidents are a leading cause of concussions across most age groups year after year, according to data available from the CDC. However, many individuals fail to seek medical care soon after the accident because the signs and symptoms of a concussion may not be obvious or noticeable right away. Here, we want to discuss the main warning signs of a concussion after a car accident occurs.

Concussions Are Traumatic Brain Injuries

Concussions are traumatic brain injuries. Even though they are considered mild TBIs, mild does not mean injury-free. The reality is that even a mild traumatic brain injury can worsen, and unfortunately, the signs and symptoms of concussions are not obvious right away. It is not uncommon for concussions to develop into more serious traumatic brain injuries because a person failed to seek medical treatment after sustaining a bump or blow to the head or body.

Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Most warning signs of a concussion will show up soon after the injury occurs. According to the CDC, some of the most common concussion symptoms reported include:

• Headaches
• Feeling a pressure in the head
• Vomiting or nausea
• Issues with balance or dizziness
• Blurry or double vision
• Irritation by light or noise
• Feeling hazy, sluggish, or groggy
• Confusing, concentration, or memory problems
• Feeling “off” after the incident

Regardless of whether or not a person shows visible or obvious signs after a bump or blow to the body or head, individuals should seek prompt medical treatment. Only a medical professional can properly diagnose a concussion, and quick medical interventions can help keep a concussion from becoming a more severe traumatic brain injury.

Signs a Brain Injury is Worse Than Expected

Concussions can lead to more moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries, particularly if they are left untreated or if the initial bump or blow to the head or body was worse than originally thought. Some of the signs that a concussion is more dangerous than expected include:

• One pupil larger than the other
• And inability to awaken easily
• Headaches that get worse and do not go away
• Decreased coordination
• Slurred speech
• Numbness or weakness
• Continued nausea or vomiting
• Seizures or convulsions
• Unusual behavior, restlessness, agitation, or confusion
• Any loss of consciousness

Even if a person seems fine after the initial incident or after receiving medical treatment, please understand that concussions can still get worse. Individuals who sustain concussions should remain under constant supervision by a person who can look out for worsening signs and symptoms. If any emergency symptoms arise, Call 911 immediately.

Liability for a Concussion

Victims may be able to recover compensation after sustaining a concussion if the injury was caused by the careless or negligent actions of another party. For example, if a person sustains a concussion in a car accident caused by another driver, they may be able to secure compensation for their medical bills through an insurance claim against the other driver’s carrier. Vehicle accident claims involving injuries such as a concussion can be challenging, and insurance carriers are notorious for offering low settlements. We encourage you to speak with a skilled Houston car accident attorney who can help you through this process of recovering compensation for your losses.