
A concussion is a common and serious injury for car accident victims in New York. However, it’s frequently undiagnosed because many people fail to recognize the signs and symptoms. A concussion should be taken seriously after an accident, as this head injury can affect the full and proper functioning of your brain. It can be fatal or result in lifelong disabilities if left untreated. If you have been injured in a car accident, it’s in your best interest to contact a skilled New York City Injury Lawyer who can help you navigate your legal options. Please continue reading to familiarize yourself with common concussion symptoms.
What Are the Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident?
First, a concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain is jolted or moves rapidly inside the skull. This can damage brain cells and alter how the brain functions. When a car accident occurs, even if there isn’t a direct blow to the head, the sudden impact of a crash can cause the brain to bounce inside the skull, causing bruising, bleeding, and tearing. The severity of a concussion is categorized using a grading system:
- Grade 1: This is considered a mild concussion. With this type of low-grade concussion, there is no loss of consciousness, but you may experience temporary amnesia for less than 30 minutes. Minor car accidents are usually what cause grade 1 concussions.
- Grade 2: This is considered a moderate concussion. With this mid-grade concussion, you may experience a brief loss of consciousness. This can last for at least a minute but less than five minutes. This type of concussion is generally more severe in the symptoms than a grade 1 concussion.
- Grade 3: This is considered a severe concussion. With this high-grade concussion, you lose consciousness for more than five minutes and the symptoms can last for weeks before they begin to subside. You may experience amnesia for more than 24 hours, putting you at risk of permanent brain damage. This type of concussion has the highest risk of chronic symptoms.
Depending on the severity of a concussion, you may experience various symptoms. It’s important to note that concussion symptoms may not appear right away. Some people don’t experience symptoms for hours or even days after an accident. Regardless of the grade, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms following an accident:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Neck pain
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Sleep disturbance
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion
- Irritability or personality changes
- Loss of consciousness
- Inability to recall events leading up to or after the crash
Following a car accident, you should seek immediate medical attention. If a concussion is left untreated, it can have serious consequences. This injury can interfere with your ability to work and enjoyment of life. As such, you should connect with the team at The Bàez Legal Group, as we are prepared to help you fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Contact us today to learn how we can guide you during this difficult time.