In a car accident, it’s not unusual for a driver or passenger to suffer a brain injury. These types of injuries can be difficult to detect, especially in the moments after the accident. In the split second of the crash, an individual can sustain a serious head injury and not even realize the full impact.
An experienced personal injury lawyer in Massachusetts knows car accidents are among the top causes of head injuries or concussions. On Concussion Awareness Day on Sept. 16, we are thinking of the countless stories of accident victims who suffered concussions and faced a long recovery. Tragically, some victims live short lives after a brain injuries. Others need extensive rehabilitation and see a significant reduction in quality of life.
What is a concussion or brain injury?
A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a blow to the head. In an accident, a driver or passenger might strike their head on a hard object such as the window, steering wheel or headrest. A concussion can be sustained after the head violently shifts forward or backward, which can happen in rear-end accidents. The forces involved in the crash can cause stretching and damage to the brain cells.
What type of accidents lead to concussions?
Some of the most vulnerable users of the roads are pedestrians, bicycle riders and motorcyclists. In accidents, they might strike their heads on the vehicle or the ground. Even if wearing a helmet, motorcycle riders and cyclists can sustain a concussion due to the violent blow to the head.
What are symptoms of a concussion?
The following are some of the signs you or a loved one might have a concussion (according to the Mayo Clinic):
- Headaches that increase in severity over time
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Changes in behavior
- Slurred speech
- Vision disturbances such as pupils that are larger than normal
- Ringing in the ears
- Confusion or disorientation
What to do after an accident causing a concussion?
After an accident, head injury victims might be able to move around and talk to others. They might not realize in the minutes or even hours after the crash that they have suffered a concussion. Because the injury can worsen with time, it’s important to get a medical exam as soon as possible. Go to the emergency room or contact your doctor right away.
Insurance companies recognize concussions are a type of brain injury. But adjusters may downplay the extent of your injury. The claim can get even more complicated when discussing who was at fault. The insurance company for the other driver may try to shift blame.
Medical bills related to brain injuries can pile up quickly. You may need to take time off from work or even give up working to focus on recovery. With so much at stake, it’s critical to consult with a brain injury attorney in Massachusetts.
How a lawyer can help
If you or a loved one sustained a concussion or brain injury in an accident, contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone for a free consultation. We have a proven track record of obtaining results for our clients.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Talk to us today. Tell them you mean business!