How To Determine If You Have A Concussion After A Car Accident
Of all injuries sustained during a car accident, concussions are some of the most common. Concussions are particularly complex injuries. They do not always present symptoms right away, and they affect different accident victims very differently. After any car accident, it is important to determine if you have a concussion so you can start receiving the treatment you need immediately, and include damages for your injury in any claim you may file.
What is a Concussion?
Concussions occur when the brain bounces and moves around inside the skull, which can cause stretching and damage to the brain tissue. The movement of the brain is typically caused by a sudden blow, jolt, or bump to the head. Concussions are one of the most common injuries sustained in car crashes because the head can so easily hit the steering wheel, window, and other objects inside the vehicle. The impact of car accidents is sometimes so great that it causes the entire body to jolt, which can cause the head to move back and forth forcefully.
Common Symptoms of a Concussion
Not all concussions present symptoms right away, but it is important to know what signs may appear. The most common signs of a concussion are as follows:
- Cannot remember the moments before or after the accident
- Feeling dazed or stunned
- Cannot remember instructions
- Clumsiness
- Slow to answer questions
- Loss of consciousness, even for just a few moments
- Behavioral and personality changes
- Headaches
- Nausea, with or without vomiting
- Issues with balance
- Sensitivity to noise and light
- Sluggishness
- Problems concentrating
- Memory issues
In addition to the above symptoms, if you simply feel not right after an accident or not like yourself, you should tell your doctor, as that may be an indication of a concussion.
A Doctor Can Diagnose Your Concussion
It is of crucial importance that you see a doctor after any car accident, as a physician will know how to examine you for a concussion. A doctor will first talk to you about the details surrounding the crash, and they may then conduct a neurological exam. This will test your hearing, vision, reflexes, balances, strength, coordination, and ability to feel sensations.
If you are experiencing certain symptoms, such as migraines, seizures, and repeated vomiting, the doctor may also order additional tests. These may include an MRI, a CT scan, or an x-ray. These imaging devices will allow the doctor to look at your brain to determine if there is any bleeding or other damage to the brain.
Our Car Accident Lawyer in Marietta Will Help You Recover Damages for a Concussion
Concussions can have a serious impact on your life. The tests used to diagnose the injury are expensive, and you may not be able to return to work right away. At The Strickland Firm, our experienced Marietta car accident lawyer will help you recover the full damages you incurred as a result of your injury. Call us today at 1-844-GAJUSTICE or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation.
