A study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) referred to concussions as a “silent epidemic.” Millions of Americans suffer traumatic brain injuries each year, and motor vehicle collisions are among the leading causes. One of the many challenges associated with concussions is that they often arise with a delayed onset. The victim may not feel the full effects for 48 hours, 72 hours, or longer. You must know the early warning signs. Here, our Lexington car accident attorney provides a guide for recognizing the symptoms of a concussion after a crash in South Carolina.
The Most Common Concussion Symptoms After a Car Accident
Car crashes cause concussions because of the sudden forceful movement of the head and brain.
Even if there is no direct impact to the skull, there is still a risk of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a crash. Here are some of the most common symptoms that you need to watch out for:
- Headache: A headache is often the earliest and most common symptom of a concussion. It can begin shortly after the crash or develop over the next several hours. The pain may feel dull, throbbing, or pressure-like and may worsen with movement or light.
- Dizziness (or Balance Problems): Many concussion victims report feeling lightheaded or unsteady on their feet. The symptom can make it difficult to walk, stand, or perform normal activities. Dizziness may come and go or, alternatively, it can persist for hours or even days.
- Nausea and/or Vomiting: One of the most common symptoms, concussions frequently cause nausea. The condition may or may not lead to vomiting, depending on the person and the severity. The sensation often accompanies dizziness or sensitivity to motion.
- Vision Issues (Blurred and/or Sensitivity): Vision changes, such as blurred vision, double vision, or seeing “stars”, are common signs of a concussion. Bright lights may feel harsh or painful, and screens may be difficult to tolerate.
- Confusion: A concussion can affect cognitive function, making it hard to think clearly or stay focused. Some people describe feeling “foggy” or disoriented, even if they remain conscious. Tasks that normally come easily may suddenly feel overwhelming.
- Short-Term Memory Loss (Amnesia): Car crash victims may forget events immediately before, during, or after the collision. It is a type of memory loss that is a red flag for a traumatic brain injury. Even if short-lived, it reflects a disruption in brain functioning.
- Loss of Consciousness: While not always present, losing consciousness, even if seemingly very brief, is one of the most severe signs of a concussion. It indicates a significant jolt to the brain. Some people may black out for seconds, while others lose awareness for minutes.
All Suspected Head Injuries Require Prompt Medical Care
All suspected brain injuries should be evaluated by a doctor. Even a seemingly mild concussion can have serious consequences if left untreated. Symptoms may be delayed or subtle, but internal brain injuries can worsen over time. Prompt medical evaluation ensures that complications like bleeding, swelling, or long-term cognitive issues are identified early. After a car accident in South Carolina, it is always best to err on the side of caution. See a doctor right away.
Personal Injury Claims Tip: Not only is seeing a doctor crucial for your health and safety, but it is also required to bring a claim. You need medical records to support a brain injury claim.
What is Second Impact Syndrome?
Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) is a relatively rare but potentially fatal condition. It can happen when a person sustains a second concussion before fully recovering from an initial one. Even if the second impact is relatively mild, the brain, which is still very vulnerable from the first injury, can rapidly swell and lose its ability to regulate blood flow and pressure. The rapid cerebral edema (brain swelling) can lead to severe neurological damage, coma, or even death within a matter of minutes. All brain injuries should be evaluated and treated by a doctor.
Concussion Car Accidents: Your Right to Pursue Compensation
In South Carolina, car accident victims have the right to pursue compensation for both their economic losses and their non-economic damages. Unfortunately, insurance companies can make the claims process difficult, even in brain injury cases. Our South Carolina car accident lawyers fight tirelessly to help concussion victims secure the maximum recovery. You may be able to recover financial compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other medical costs;
- Physical therapy;
- Mental health counseling;
- Loss of wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress;
- Long-term disability;
- Permanent impairment, and
- Reduced quality of life.
With brain injury cases, car accident victims may be left with long-term medical needs and serious non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and permanent impairments. You need a lawyer who will fight for full and fair financial compensation on your behalf.
Why Trust Our South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer for a Concussion Claim
A serious car crash can change your entire life in the matter of moments. Concussion claims can be especially challenging to navigate. Car accident victims must have reliable, experienced legal representation. At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, we are committed to fighting for justice for the people who need guidance and support the most. With a proven record of case results, we are always prepared to go the extra mile for clients and their families. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a South Carolina traumatic brain injury lawyer.
Contact Our South Carolina Auto Accident Lawyer Today
At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, our South Carolina car accident lawyers are standing by, ready to fight aggressively to protect your rights. If you or your loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a collision, we are here as a resource. Give us a phone call now or contact us online to set up your free, no-obligation initial case review. From our office in Lexington and our office in Mauldin, we handle motor vehicle accident injury cases throughout the wider region in South Carolina.