How to Detect a Concussion After a Car Accident

After an auto accident, it can be difficult to detect some physical injuries sustained, including whiplash, a slipped disc or other musculoskeletal injuries. Another injury that may be hard to detect right away is a concussion.

After your head or neck jolts back or hits the seat, there may be significant damage that might not be immediately detectable. Because concussion symptoms can be subtle, it’s important to know how to detect it.

What Is a Concussion?

According to the CDC, a concussion is a traumatic injury to the brain that’s caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Although concussions aren’t usually life-threatening, they usually come with serious effects to the body.

Identifying the Signs of a Concussion

You don’t need to be passed out to have a concussion. Kidshealth.org claims that “most people who get concussions don’t pass out.” There is not one exact way to tell if you or someone has a concussion, but here are some potential symptoms to look for. These include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Any kind of amnesia or loss of memory
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion
• Headache
• Feeling dazed
• Scalp swelling
• Unusual behavior or personality changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Slowness in thinking, speaking or acting
• Sensitivity to lights or sounds
• Blurred vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Loss of smell or taste
• Seizing (in extreme cases)

What to Do If Someone Is Concussed

If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, seek medical treatment right away. But in the meantime, here’s what you can do to ensure the person is safe:

• If the person is alert and able to hold a conversation, you should allow them to rest. Letting the brain rest can be good for after a concussion.
• If their pupils are dilated or they have trouble walking, do not let them sleep.

Tips to Help Prevent a Concussion

No matter how careful you are, sometimes car accidents cannot be avoided. In order to keep yourself as safe as possible:

• Keep your seatbelt on at all times while the vehicle is on.
• Ensure that your car is well maintained and the airbags are functioning.
• Make sure the airbags haven’t been recalled by the manufacturer, and if they have been, go to your nearest dealership to replace them.

After an Accident Occurs

The most important step to take after an accident is to see a doctor right away because you may have a concussion or other serious bodily injury. If you believe the accident was caused by another negligent driver in South Florida, contact our team Cohen and Cohen Law today. We specialize in auto accidents and personal injury, and can help you determine how to proceed.

 Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your car accident case or any general questions you may have about personal injury.