Understanding Head Injuries After a Car Accident
Head injuries are some of the most common and often undiagnosed injuries that occur following car and truck accidents. While spine injuries and whiplash are well-recognized consequences of motor vehicle collisions, head injuries often go unnoticed until symptoms worsen. This is because the signs of a head injury may take time to develop, leaving victims unaware that they are suffering from something more serious.
In this article, we will discuss the various causes and symptoms of head injuries after an accident, the risks of not seeking medical attention, and why it's essential to contact an attorney if you've suffered a head injury as a result of a car crash.
The Often Undiagnosed Injury
Head injuries resulting from car accidents are often undiagnosed for several reasons. While the physical damage to the vehicle or visible injuries like cuts and bruises may be immediately apparent, internal injuries to the brain or skull are not always as obvious. Even what may appear to be a relatively minor collision can result in a serious head injury, with potentially life-altering consequences.
There are many reasons head injuries go undetected after a car accident. These include the nature of the collision, delayed symptom onset, and the victim's lack of understanding of the severity of their condition. Below, we explore these reasons in detail.
1. Victims Often Fail to Recognize How Head Injuries Can Occur
Many people assume that head injuries only occur if their head makes direct contact with an object, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or side window. However, this is not always the case. Head injuries can occur from the sudden jolt of a whiplash-type movement. This is often referred to as a coup-contrecoup injury, where the brain is violently shaken inside the skull, causing damage to both sides of the brain.
In these cases, no external contact is necessary for a severe head injury to occur. The force of the collision alone is enough to cause the brain to shift, leading to injuries like concussions or even more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
2. Symptoms Can Be Delayed
One of the most concerning aspects of head injuries after an accident is the delayed onset of symptoms. It's not uncommon for individuals involved in car accidents to feel fine immediately afterward, only to experience symptoms hours, days, or even weeks later. This delayed symptom onset makes head injuries particularly dangerous, as victims may not seek medical attention right away.
For example, a concussion may not cause noticeable symptoms at the time of the accident. Instead, victims might feel slightly disoriented, attributing their condition to the stress of the crash. However, as time passes, symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or memory loss can develop. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, these symptoms can worsen, potentially leading to long-term damage.
3. Misunderstanding Post-Concussion Symptoms
Another reason head injuries go undiagnosed is that victims often mistake post-concussion symptoms for other conditions like anxiety or adrenaline from the accident. For example, if someone experiences dizziness or lightheadedness after a crash, they may dismiss these symptoms as nerves or stress rather than a potential head injury.
It’s essential to recognize the signs of a concussion or other head injuries following a car accident. Ignoring these symptoms or attributing them to something less serious can result in long-term consequences, including the development of a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Common Symptoms of a Head Injury After a Car Accident
Recognizing the symptoms of a head injury is crucial in getting the medical attention you need. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, look for the following symptoms:
- Brief loss of consciousness
- Ringing in the ears
- Seeing stars or flashes of light
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea or vomiting
- Disorientation or confusion
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Amnesia (memory loss)
- Persistent headaches
- Seizures
- Changes in mood or personality
- Difficulty sleeping or disrupted sleep patterns
If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further complications from a head injury. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe conditions such as chronic headaches, cognitive issues, and even permanent brain damage.
The Importance of Immediate Medical Attention
Many people avoid seeking medical attention after an accident, especially if they don’t feel immediate pain or discomfort. However, this can be a dangerous mistake, particularly when it comes to head injuries. As previously mentioned, the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can be delayed, and failing to get a timely diagnosis could result in lasting damage.
Medical professionals can conduct imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs to detect any internal injuries, even if there are no immediate outward signs of a problem. These tests are crucial in diagnosing concussions or other forms of brain injury that might not be visible to the naked eye. Additionally, early intervention can lead to a better prognosis and help avoid long-term complications.
Why You Need an Attorney After a Head Injury
If you or a loved one has sustained a head injury due to a car accident, it’s important to consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Head injuries can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. An attorney can help you pursue compensation for these damages and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
At The Francis Firm, our team has extensive experience in handling cases involving head injuries and traumatic brain injuries. We understand the challenges that come with proving the severity of these injuries and will work to gather the necessary evidence, including medical records and expert testimony, to support your claim. Don’t let the insurance company downplay your injury—get the legal help you need.
Contact an Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has suffered a head injury in an automobile collision, don’t wait to contact the trial lawyers at The Francis Injury Firm today. Every day that you delay could result in lost evidence or diminished chances of a successful claim. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (817) 329-9001 or contact us online for a free consultation.