10 Things You Should Know About Concussions And Car Accidents

An experienced Columbus attorney can help you recover compensation.

A common injury seen in car accidents is a concussion. While many people tend to think of a concussion as a minor injury, it can be very concerning and have a significant impact on the lives of victims.

In honor of National Concussion Awareness Day this September, here are ten things you should know about concussions and car accidents.

1. A concussion is a type of brain injury.

In fact, a concussion is sometimes called a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head or body. This can disrupt normal brain function, affecting a victim's well-being and quality of life.

2. There are different ways of getting a concussion in an accident.

Concussions in car accidents can happen when a person's head collides with the interior of the vehicle, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, window, or windshield. But they can also happen when the head is thrown forward and backward by the force of impact. The brain crashes into the skull from the abrupt movement, causing damage to brain cells.

3. There are different symptoms of concussion.

Concussion symptoms can vary but may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, nausea, slurred speech, vomiting, sensitivity to light or noise, and balance problems.

4. Concussion symptoms can be delayed.

Some people experience symptoms of concussion immediately following a crash. However, others may not notice any symptoms until hours or even days after the accident.

5. You should always get medical attention.

Go to the emergency room of a local hospital or see your own doctor as soon as possible. A doctor can examine you and conduct a neurological exam, cognitive assessment, and other tests.

6. A concussion can have long-term effects.

Without treatment, concussions can lead to post-concussion syndrome with persistent headaches, memory problems, and mood changes. Cognitive impairments, emotional issues such as anxiety and depression, and an increased risk of future concussions are also possible.

7. You can recover from a concussion with treatment.

The primary treatment for a concussion is rest. This includes physical rest. It also includes cognitive rest – limiting activities that require concentration, such as reading, using a computer, or playing a video game. A doctor may advise you to take an over-the-counter pain reliever if you are experiencing headaches.

8. You may be able to recover financial compensation.

If a negligent driver caused the accident – for example, by speeding or texting behind the wheel – you can file a claim for financial compensation. This includes compensation for current and future medical expenses related to your concussion, lost wages if you couldn't work, and pain and suffering.

9. The insurance company will try to minimize your claim.

The insurance company's goal is to pay you as little as possible. They may use many different tactics to accomplish this. For example, they may question the seriousness of your concussion or argue that you were to blame for the accident.

10. An experienced car accident lawyer can fight for your rights.

Insurance companies often don't take claims involving concussions seriously. And they have lawyers fighting for their best interests. That's why you need an experienced car accident attorney who knows how to build a strong case and get results.

If you suffered a concussion in a car accident in Columbus or anywhere in Central Ohio, the lawyers at Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC can help. We can review the details of your accident and discuss your legal options. Contact us to schedule a free consultation at our Columbus office.