The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists car accidents as one of the most common causes of concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) nationwide. However, despite their frequency, many people don’t recognize the symptoms of these injuries after a wreck. The adrenaline rushing through a crash victim’s veins can easily mask the signs of a head injury. And without immediate medical intervention, concussions can cause significant medical complications with potentially life-changing consequences.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury that impacts brain function. Concussions typically fall on the mild to moderate spectrum of TBIs. Most result from sudden bumps or blows to the head, which can cause the brain to move back and forth inside the skull rapidly. This sudden movement can injure brain cells and tissue, cause chemical changes to the brain, and lead to bleeding from damaged blood vessels.
Importantly, even though concussions are typically relatively “mild” brain injuries, they can still have significant health effects. If you suffer a suspected concussion or possible head injury, you should always seek a professional evaluation from a medical provider. This is true after any car accident, even a minor fender bender. Sometimes, the signs of a concussion do not manifest right away and can take hours or days to appear after the initial trauma. Seeking prompt medical attention after a wreck is the best way to determine whether you have a concussion, and it can have significant implications on your ability to recover.
Concussion Symptoms After a Car Accident
The symptoms of a concussion can vary depending on the circumstances, but most people experience one or more of the following issues after sustaining concussions:
- Loss of consciousness
- Headaches
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Vision changes
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Amnesia
- Dizziness
Some people also experience symptoms like insomnia, concentration problems, slurred speech, irritability, and changes in taste and smell. Children tend to exhibit different symptoms like excessive crying, lack of interest in toys or activities, crankiness, dazed expressions, and glassy eyes.
Treatment Options
Many concussions are mild in comparison to other brain injuries, so treatment is typically straightforward, mainly involving physical and mental rest. However, remember that excessive sleep and rest are not always the best option. Research suggests that too much rest can lengthen the recovery period for some people. Your doctor can evaluate your unique condition and design a treatment plan that balances rest and activity to allow your brain to heal.
If you experience headaches or other discomfort, your doctor might prescribe medications to manage your symptoms. They might recommend pain relievers like acetaminophen to ease headaches or prescribe anti-nausea medications if you’re experiencing dizziness or nausea. In some cases, your doctor might also suggest sleep aids if you’re having trouble sleeping or antidepressants if mood changes like anxiety or depression arise.
Compensation for a Concussion Following a Car Accident
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you could be entitled to compensation for the personal and financial losses you suffered as a result. Since North Dakota follows a no-fault car insurance model, your own personal injury protection coverage should pay for your medical expenses, regardless of who caused the crash, up to the limits of the policy.
If you suffer “serious injuries” or your medical expenses exceed $2,500, you could also have grounds for a third-party or personal injury claim against the at-fault driver or their insurer. With a successful third-party claim, you could recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage costs
- Pain and suffering
Get a Free Consultation from an Experienced North Dakota Car Accident Lawyer
At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., we have a long track record of helping injured crash victims seek the compensation they deserve. If you have suffered a concussion in a North Dakota wreck, contact us today for a free legal consultation with our compassionate car accident attorneys.