What Should You Do After a Car Accident Concussion?

Soft tissue injuries like whiplash are common in car accidents, but did you know concussions are, too? Most people think of concussions as a sports-related injury for high impact activities like football or hockey, but anytime a person’s head is shaken or jerked it can lead to a concussion. Even at slow rates of speed, the impact of a collision can jostle the brain enough to result in a concussion.

If you suspect a concussion after a car accident, what should you do?

In addition to promptly seeking medical treatment, you should also contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney. Concussions are serious injuries that can lead to long-term effects and costly medical treatment. Rather than enduring the back-and-forth of insurance negotiations, allow an experienced attorney to advocate for the compensation you deserve while you focus on taking care of yourself during recovery.

Here is a quick overview of concussions including symptoms to look for, the importance of medical treatment, and how to seek compensation for your injuries.

What are the symptoms of a concussion after a car accident?

Concussions are not always obvious, as there may not be any immediate symptoms. In fact, symptoms may not appear until a few days to a few weeks after the trauma or may never manifest at all. In cases where a concussion is apparent, immediate symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, blurred vision, slurred speech, nausea, head and neck pain, or fatigue. However, symptoms vary, and therefore, any behavior change or abnormal feeling after head trauma should be considered as a possible sign of a concussion and immediate medical attention is necessary.

How are car accident concussions treated?

Sometimes, a mild concussion can be treated with physical and mental rest while the individual symptoms, such as a headache, are treated separately with medication. However, in severe cases, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be necessary to help the brain recover from the concussion. Brain damage can result in lost connections, requiring the brain to re-learn important functions related to memory, speech, and performing simple tasks.

Should I seek medical treatment for a head injury?

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury. Even a mild concussion must be taken seriously, given immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Regardless of whether there are obvious symptoms, a medical evaluation should happen within a few days of the trauma even when emergency care is not warranted. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, concussions can result in ongoing complications including post-concussive syndrome and permanent brain damage.

Can I recover damages for a car accident concussion?

In addition to recovering your medical costs, you may also be entitled to lost wages and compensation for related pain and suffering. While the medical costs of treating a concussion can be significant, the impact to your life can also be substantial. This is why it is important to have an experienced personal injury attorney to advocate for you, so that you can recover the full financial compensation you deserve.

Contact Natasha Misra Law today to schedule a free consultation.