Signs a Concussion is From Your Car Accident

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality, and with them comes the risk of injuries that are not always visible to the eye, including concussions. Sometimes, these injuries don’t get noticed or diagnosed right away, even by doctors, because the signs aren’t always clear. If a concussion isn’t treated, it can be really dangerous and lead to long-term health problems.

Anyone in Florida can get a concussion, whether they’re behind the wheel, in the passenger seat, or walking down the street. If the accident is caused by another motorist’s failure to uphold their duty of care, the victim may be entitled to recover compensation.

At Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano in Gainesville, our team of skilled car accident lawyers have a strong track record of supporting individuals who have suffered injuries due to crashes. We’re committed to assisting you in securing fair compensation if you’re dealing with an injury resulting from an accident that occurred because of someone else’s negligence.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion after a car accident is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain suffers trauma due to a forceful impact, such as a blow or jolt to the head. In some cases, a concussion might result from the vigorous shaking of the head, typically caused by the abrupt and intense forces experienced in a crash. Loss of consciousness can also occur, though it is not always present.

Diagnosing a concussion after a motor vehicle accident involves a thorough evaluation of symptoms and may include a physical exam, cognitive tests to assess memory and concentration, balance assessments, and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to rule out more severe injuries. Cutting-edge diagnostic tools have enhanced the accuracy of concussion assessments significantly.

Advanced MRIs such as Susceptibility Weighted Imaging (SWI) and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) are used to detect micro-hemorrhages and mapping the integrity of brain white matter. NeuroQuant testing, another type of MRI, can quantify brain atrophy and assess changes in brain structure.

Additionally, computerized or video nystagmography (VNG) is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate the function of the inner ear and central motor functions by observing eye movements, helping to identify vestibular or balance issues associated with concussions. Neuropsychological testing is another option that looks at cognitive functioning and can uncover deficits often seen in concussion patients.

Causes of Concussions in Car Accidents

During an auto accident, a concussion may be caused by various impacts. Direct blows to the head, often from striking the steering wheel, rapid back-and-forth whipping of the neck, or even intense shaking without a direct impact can all lead to a concussion.

This injury results from the brain moving violently within the skull, potentially leading to bruising, bleeding, or twisting of the brain tissue. This internal damage can be severe, potentially leading to critical conditions if not addressed promptly, including fatal outcomes or permanent disabilities.

In many cases, car accident victims may experience symptoms for a few days. Others might face lingering effects for weeks or even months. It’s important to monitor symptoms and seek ongoing medical care as needed.

What are Common Warning Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident?

Recognizing the signs of concussion injuries post-accident is important. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle collision, be alert for these concussion symptoms:

Memory loss regarding events before or after the crash.
A state of confusion or appearing dazed or disoriented.
Clumsiness or uncoordinated movements.
Slowness in responding to questions.
Changes in mood, behavior, or personality.
Issues with concentration or forgetfulness.

Additionally, be aware of symptoms like headaches and dizziness. It’s important to keep in mind that these symptoms may not be immediate and can be delayed. Therefore, if you find yourself in a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort.

How Can I Tell if my Head Injury is Severe or Mild?

After a car accident, it’s important to evaluate the severity of a head injury. The distinction between a mild and a severe head injury can significantly impact the course of treatment and recovery.

Mild traumatic brain injuries often involve brief changes in mental status or consciousness, whereas severe head injuries can result in prolonged unconsciousness or amnesia after the incident. Some signs of a severe head injury may include:

Prolonged loss of consciousness for more than a few minutes.
Persistent confusion lasting several hours or more.
Repeated vomiting or nausea.
Seizures or convulsions.
Inability to awaken from sleep.
Deterioration of neurological function such as weakness in limbs, slurred speech, or decreased coordination.
Clear fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears.

If you experience any of these symptoms following a car accident, it indicates a severe head injury, and immediate medical treatment is necessary. Even if the injury initially seems mild, symptoms can evolve; thus, close monitoring is essential.

How Do You Treat a Concussion?

Treating a concussion after a motor vehicle accident involves a combination of physical rest, mental rest, and gradual return to normal activities under medical guidance. Here’s a breakdown of the treatment process:

Initial Rest and Recovery: The first 24-48 hours post-injury are critical. During this period, both physical and mental rest is advised. This means avoiding physical exertion and activities that require concentration or mental strain, like using electronic devices, reading, or even watching TV.
Monitor Symptoms Post-Injury: It’s important to closely monitor for symptoms of a concussion after your accident, as you may not immediately recognize your injury due to shock or confusion. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, memory problems, or personality changes can manifest hours or days later. Family members and those close to you can help observe these symptoms as they may notice changes in your behavior or health that you may not recognize yourself.
Gradual Reintroduction of Activities: Once symptoms start to decrease, you can slowly begin to reintroduce regular activities. This should be a gradual process, and any activity that worsens symptoms should be stopped immediately.
Medical Supervision: Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are necessary to monitor recovery progress. They may also provide specific guidelines or restrictions based on the severity of your concussion.
Medication: While there is no specific medication to cure a concussion, certain drugs may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as headache, nausea, or sleep disturbances.
Therapy: In some cases, therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy might be recommended, especially if the concussion has affected physical functions, speech, or cognitive abilities.
Education and Support: Understanding your condition and having a support system is essential. Stay informed about your condition and communicate with family, friends, and your employer about your limitations and recovery process.

Recovery from a concussion varies from person to person. Some may recover within a few days, while others might take weeks or longer. Following the advice of medical professionals and listening to your body are key to a safe and effective recovery.

Can You File an Insurance Claim for a Concussion?

In Florida, if you’ve sustained a concussion after a car accident, you’re entitled to file an insurance claim to cover your medical expenses and other related costs. Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that you typically file a claim with your own insurance company regardless of who was at fault in the accident. Follow these steps to file an insurance claim:

Seek Medical Attention: Firstly, get a thorough medical examination. Documentation from healthcare professionals about your concussion is crucial for your claim.
Report the Accident to Your Insurer: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Florida law requires that you report car accidents within a specific timeframe, usually within 14 days, to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.
Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documents, including medical records, a copy of the police report, and any evidence of expenses incurred due to the concussion.
File a PIP Claim: File a claim under your Personal Injury Protection coverage. PIP can cover medical bills, a portion of lost wages, and other damages regardless of fault.
Consider Legal Advice: If you have significant medical expenses or if the PIP coverage is insufficient, consulting with a personal injury attorney can be beneficial. They can guide you on the possibility of filing a lawsuit for additional compensation, especially if another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident.

How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

At Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., our commitment is unwavering when it comes to assisting those injured across Florida in receiving the compensation they rightfully deserve. With a collective legal experience spanning over a century, we’ve been the pillar of support for countless car accident victims in Gainesville, Alachua County, and throughout Florida.

Suffering from a concussion due to a motor vehicle accident can be a life-altering experience. If you or a loved one is navigating this challenging situation, reach out to us for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. By dialing (352) 372-7777, you can consult with one of our adept personal injury attorneys. They will thoroughly assess the specifics of your case and guide you through the legal options available to you.