An attorney can fight for your rights if you’ve been injured.
September 15 marked National Concussion Awareness Day, which is dedicated to helping people learn more about this type of brain injury. Concussions are common in car accidents but are often misunderstood.
A concussion is sometimes called a “mild traumatic brain injury,” but the word “mild” can be misleading. This type of injury can have serious consequences on car accident victims, impacting their well-being and quality of life without proper treatment.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when a sudden and forceful impact or blow to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This can result in chemical changes in the brain and sometimes damage to brain cells, leading to changes in brain function.
Drivers and passengers can suffer a concussion in different ways. During a collision, a person’s head can be thrown forward and back with great force. A person’s head may hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or other part of the vehicle.
Common concussion symptoms include confusion, dizziness, headache, nausea, memory problems, sensitivity to light and noise, and sometimes loss of consciousness. However, victims may not notice anything wrong immediately following the accident. Symptoms can take hours or days to appear.
Should I see a doctor for a concussion?
Yes. If you were involved in a car crash, you should always get medical attention as soon as possible – even if you feel fine. Because symptoms can be delayed, you may have suffered a concussion without realizing it. A doctor can perform neurological exams, cognitive assessments, and other tests.
Treatment for a concussion typically involves different components. These include rest and avoiding strenuous physical activity. The doctor may suggest taking over-the-counter pain relievers if you are suffering from headaches. You may also be advised to limit activities that require intense concentration and gradually return to normal activities.
Can I recover financial compensation for a concussion?
Possibly. If a negligent driver caused the accident that left you injured, you can file a claim with that driver’s insurance company. The amount you can recover depends on many different factors. In general, you can seek compensation for medical expenses related to your concussion, lost wages if you missed time from work, and pain and suffering.
But the other driver may deny doing anything wrong, and insurance companies may try to minimize your claim.
When to contact a car accident lawyer
You are not required to have a lawyer when filing a claim for compensation. But insurance companies handle claims every day, and they have the advantage. An experienced car accident lawyer can level the playing field and fight for your rights.
An attorney can investigate your accident to gather evidence proving the other driver was responsible. A lawyer can also help you navigate the claims process, negotiate a settlement that meets your needs, or take your case to court if needed.
If you were hurt in a car accident in Ohio, it’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible. The attorneys at Gervelis Law Firm are ready to meet with you. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. Our Ohio offices are located in Canfield, Warren, Akron, Columbus, and Toledo.