When a sudden force causes a blow to the head or the head to snap forward or backward suddenly, a concussion may occur. This type of injury can range from minor to severe and result in lasting consequences. While a concussion can be mild, it is important to recognize the signs of one after being involved in an accident to ensure early detection and treatment. For more information about concussions and your legal options after an accident, reach out to an experienced New York injury lawyer today.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a head injury generally classified as an mTBI (mild traumatic brain injury). This type of injury occurs when your brain moves around and collides with your skull, generally as a result of a sudden blow or jolt to the body.
Concussions are common injuries occurring after accidents, especially car crashes, falls, sports injuries, and any other impact that would cause the head to move suddenly and forcefully back and forth. While concussions are often mild, if they are left untreated, they could worsen and lead to long-term complications.
What Are the Signs of a Concussion After an Accident?
Because concussions have the potential to be severe and have long-lasting effects, it is important to understand the common signs to look out for, especially after having been in an accident.
Common symptoms of a concussion include the following.
- Persistent headaches
- Neck pain
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to sounds
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or feeling foggy
- Irritability and mood swings
It is important to note that the symptoms of a concussion may not appear immediately and are often delayed several hours or even days. If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is crucial that you make your way to a doctor or hospital for a thorough evaluation.
Seeking medical treatment is important not only to ensure your safety and well-being but also to protect your legal rights and options.
Can I Recover Compensation for My Concussion?
If you sustained a concussion in an accident, you may be able to recover compensation. The most important factor in whether or not you are entitled to damages is the determination of liability for the accident.
For example, suppose you were involved in a car crash that was caused by another driver running a red light and slamming into the side of your car. If the impact of the crash caused a concussion, you can recover compensation because the other driver’s negligence and recklessness caused the accident and your injury.
The first step to recovering compensation is seeking help from both medical and legal professionals. After ensuring your safety and well-being, consult a skilled personal injury attorney at Mitchell J. Schroeder, P.C. for legal advice today.
