How car accidents cause concussions and other traumatic brain injuries

Car accidents frequently result in serious injuries, with concussions being one of the most common and concerning. Recognizing the prevalence of these injuries, the Brain Injury Association of America has designated September 20 as National Concussion Awareness Day.

"The purpose of National Concussion Awareness Day is to create an opportunity for public discussion of this issue. By raising awareness of the importance of recognizing a concussion, treating it appropriately, and supporting the injured, we can positively impact lives across the country," according to the event's official website.

How common are concussions?

The short answer? Very common. Each year, an estimated 1.7 million to 3 million people sustain a concussion, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) based on head injury data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Sometimes referred to as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), concussions can have serious, long-term consequences. In particular, mild TBIs can cause frequent headaches, chronic pain, and cognitive problems that can affect a person's ability to think and speak.

How often do car accidents cause concussions?

Here again, car crashes consistently result in concussions and other types of brain injuries. On average, 1 out of 6 concussions (17 percent) occur due to head injuries sustained in a car accident. Based on the number of concussions overall that occur each year, that works out to roughly 300,000 to 500,000 concussions due to car accidents annually, according to CDC injury data.

How do car accidents cause concussions?

During a collision, the body experiences a sudden and violent jolt, which can cause the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This abrupt movement can result in the brain striking the inner walls of the skull, leading to bruising, swelling, or bleeding—what we commonly refer to as a concussion.

Several factors in car accidents contribute to concussions, including:

• Whiplash: Even in low-speed crashes, the neck can snap forward and backward violently, causing the brain to strike the inside of the skull.
• Direct head impact: In more severe collisions, a person's head may hit the steering wheel, dashboard, window, or another object inside the vehicle, leading to a direct blow to the skull and brain.
• Airbag deployment: While airbags are designed to prevent more serious injuries, the force of an airbag deploying can also cause the head to whip backward or forward, increasing the risk of a concussion.
• Side impacts: In a side-impact collision, the head can be thrown from side to side, causing the brain to shift violently within the skull, resulting in a concussion.

Concussions can range from mild to severe, and symptoms might not be immediately apparent. It's crucial to seek medical attention after a car accident, even if you feel fine, as concussions and other head injuries can worsen without proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the warning signs of a concussion?

See a doctor right away if you experience any of the following concussion symptoms after a car accident:

• Dizziness or poor balance
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty remembering or concentrating
• Feeling very tired or having a hard time staying awake
• Severe headaches that last for hours
• Sensitivity to loud noises or bright lights

Don't take these warning signs lightly. Have a doctor examine you so they can diagnose whether you have a concussion or a more severe brain injury. Your health and well-being could be at risk. Seek immediate medical attention after your accident.

Also, by seeing a doctor, you have an official medical record of your concussion. Such records can be critical when seeking financial compensation for your accident. Your doctor's records can serve as evidence that a car accident clearly caused your concussion.

How long do concussions last?

The duration of a concussion can vary significantly from person to person, depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's health. For most people, concussion symptoms last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. However, in some cases, symptoms can persist for months or even longer, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS).

Mild concussions

In less severe cases, symptoms may resolve within a few days or up to two weeks. Common symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and confusion typically subside as the brain heals.

Moderate to severe concussions

More severe concussions can take several weeks or even months to recover fully. During this time, symptoms such as memory problems, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue may persist.

Post-concussion syndrome

In some cases, symptoms last longer than three months, resulting in post-concussion syndrome. This condition can involve chronic headaches, ongoing dizziness, trouble sleeping, and cognitive issues, significantly impacting a person's daily life.

Recovery from a concussion is highly individualized. Rest and avoiding activities that stress the brain—both physically and mentally—are essential for proper healing. Following medical advice closely is important, as well as seeking ongoing care if symptoms linger or worsen over time.

How can an Atlanta concussion injury attorney help me?

Securing fair compensation for a concussion after a car accident is often more challenging than it seems. Insurance companies may try to minimize or deny your claim altogether, leaving you without the support you need for medical expenses and recovery.

At the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C., our experienced concussion lawyers understand the challenges associated with these cases. With years of experience, we know how the legal system in Georgia works and how to pursue compensation for concussion injuries effectively. Our track record includes more than $1 billion recovered for Georgia families, including a $120,000 verdict for a client who suffered a concussion in a car accident.

When it comes to getting meaningful results, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.