A car accident can leave you disoriented, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. Even if you don’t have visible injuries, a concussion—a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI)—can occur from the sudden jolt or impact of a collision. Unlike broken bones or cuts, concussions aren’t always immediately obvious, which makes them easy to overlook. However, failing to recognize and address a concussion can have serious consequences for your health and any legal claim you may pursue.
If you suspect you’ve suffered a concussion after a car accident, seeking medical attention is the first priority. The second? Consulting a Houston car accident lawyer like those at SJ Injury Attorneys to protect your rights. Concussion symptoms can develop hours or even days after the crash, and insurance companies often downplay these “invisible” injuries. An experienced attorney can help ensure your medical needs are documented and your legal claim is strong.
Understanding Concussions: The Basics
A concussion occurs when a sudden blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This movement can disrupt normal brain function, leading to a range of symptoms. While concussions are often associated with sports injuries, they’re also common in car accidents—even in low-speed collisions.
Because concussions don’t always involve loss of consciousness, many accident victims mistakenly believe they’re fine. However, untreated concussions can lead to long-term complications, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and even chronic headaches. Recognizing the signs early and taking the right steps—both medically and legally—can make all the difference in your recovery and your case.
Common Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident
Concussion symptoms vary from person to person, but there are several key indicators to watch for. These symptoms may appear immediately or develop over time, so it’s important to monitor your condition closely in the days following an accident.
Physical Symptoms
- Headaches. One of the most common signs of a concussion is a persistent headache, often described as pressure or throbbing in the head.
- Dizziness or balance problems. Feeling unsteady, lightheaded, or nauseous—especially when standing or moving—can indicate a concussion.
- Nausea or vomiting. While not everyone with a concussion experiences this, sudden nausea after an accident should never be ignored.
- Sensitivity to light or noise. Bright lights, loud sounds, or even screens (like phones or TVs) may suddenly feel overwhelming.
- Blurred vision or ringing in the ears. These sensory disruptions are red flags that warrant immediate medical attention.
Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms
- Confusion or disorientation. Struggling to recall details of the accident, feeling “foggy,” or having trouble concentrating are classic signs.
- Memory problems. Difficulty remembering what happened right before or after the crash could signal a concussion.
- Mood changes. Unexplained irritability, anxiety, or sudden emotional outbursts may be linked to brain trauma.
- Slurred speech or delayed responses. If speaking or processing information feels slower than usual, it could be concussion-related.
Sleep Disturbances
- Insomnia or excessive sleepiness. Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling unusually fatigued despite rest are potential concussion symptoms.
Why Medical Attention Is Critical
Even if your symptoms seem mild, seeing a doctor after a car accident is non-negotiable. Concussions are diagnosed based on symptoms and clinical evaluation—there’s no single test, like an X-ray, that can confirm one. A healthcare provider can perform a neurological exam, assess your cognitive function, and recommend imaging (like a CT scan) if necessary.
Beyond your health, medical records serve as crucial evidence if you pursue a legal claim. Insurance companies often argue that delayed medical treatment means your injuries weren’t serious. By seeking care promptly, you create a paper trail linking your concussion to the accident.
The Legal Importance of Documenting a Concussion
Concussions are often referred to as “invisible injuries” because they don’t show up on standard medical tests. Though Texas law (Sec. 542.003) requires insurers to act in good faith, concussions are still a frequent target for insurance adjusters looking to minimize payouts. Without proper documentation, you could face an uphill battle proving the extent of your injury.
A Houston car accident lawyer can help by:
- Gathering medical evidence. This includes doctor’s notes, imaging results, and expert testimony to establish the severity of your concussion.
- Connecting symptoms to the accident. Proving that your concussion resulted from the crash—and not a pre-existing condition—requires skilled legal advocacy.
- Calculating long-term damages. Concussions can lead to ongoing treatment, missed work, and reduced quality of life, all of which should be factored into your claim.
- Negotiating with insurers. Insurance companies can delay claims or often lowball concussion claims, but an attorney can push for fair compensation.
Without proper documentation, insurance companies may dispute the severity of your concussion or even deny your claim altogether. A Houston car accident lawyer can ensure your medical records, expert opinions, and symptom journals are compiled into a compelling case for fair compensation.
Steps to Take If You Suspect a Concussion
If you’re experiencing potential concussion symptoms after a car accident, taking the right steps quickly can protect both your health and your legal rights. Acting decisively ensures proper medical care and strengthens any future injury claim.
- Seek medical care immediately. Even if you feel “fine,” a doctor can identify subtle signs of a concussion.
- Follow all treatment recommendations. Skipping follow-ups or therapy can hurt both your health and your case.
- Document everything. Keep a journal of symptoms, medical visits, and how the injury affects your daily life.
- Avoid social media. Posts about activities or travel can be misused to dispute your injury claims.
- Contact a Houston car accident lawyer. An attorney can handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery.
Following these steps not only supports your recovery but also creates a clear link between the accident and your injuries—critical for a successful legal claim. For personalized guidance, consult a Houston car accident lawyer to navigate the process with confidence.
Why You Need a Lawyer for a Concussion Claim
Concussion cases are notoriously challenging because symptoms are subjective and vary widely. Without legal representation, you might miss deadlines, accept an unfair settlement, or fail to prove the full impact of your injury. A Houston car accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident to establish liability
- Work with medical experts to validate your concussion
- Ensure all damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering) are accounted for
- Advocate for you in negotiations or court if necessary
Recognizing the signs of a concussion after a car accident is the first step toward protecting your health and your legal rights. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical attention and consult a Houston car accident lawyer as soon as possible. With the right support, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the compensation you deserve.
