Concussion is an injury that many people associate with football and other contact sports. However, vehicle accidents are a primary cause of head injuries.
A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury, or TBI, and it can lead to long-term issues.
The impact of a collision
You may find yourself stopped at a traffic light when another driver strikes your car from behind. Rear-end collisions happen every day. Even if the negligent driver is traveling fewer than five miles per hour before hitting you, the impact can leave you with a concussion. The sudden jolt will make your head snap backward and forward. You may hit it against the windshield or steering wheel, causing your brain to bump against the inside of your skull, which can cause bruising. In fact, portions of your brain can actually move at different speeds during impact, possibly resulting in torn nerve tissue.
Delayed reaction
Symptoms of a head injury are not always apparent at the time of a crash. They may not show up for hours, even days, which is why you need to be proactive after a vehicle accident and seek medical attention even if you feel OK. Symptoms to look for include headaches, nausea, a feeling of confusion, problems with balance, blurred vision, sensitivity to noise or light, anxiety, a change in your sleep pattern or problems with concentration. Researchers who study brain injuries find that even though a concussion is a mild form of TBI, it is capable of causing long-term issues with memory and thinking.
Seeking justice
If you become the victim of a rear-end collision and sustain a concussion or worse, explore your legal options without delay. You have the right to expect financial compensation to cover your medical expenses and more. Some brain injuries take a long time to heal, and more severe injuries have life-changing repercussions. Rely on an advocate who will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and negotiate a full and fair settlement on your behalf.
