Concussions are among the most frequently sustained injuries in car accidents. Each year, nearly 300,000 individuals in the United States experience a concussion as a result of a motor vehicle collision, making up approximately 20% of all mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) cases nationwide. This type of injury can vary in severity, but it can create long-term health concerns that could leave you in need of a car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN. Let's take a look at the important things you need to know if you have a concussion following a car accident and how a car accident lawyer in Knoxville can help.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that occurs when a sudden impact—such as a hit, jolt, or even a forceful body movement—causes the head to move rapidly. This quick motion can make the brain shift, twist, or bounce within the skull, potentially leading to chemical imbalances and, in some cases, damage to brain cells. Although concussion is termed as a mild traumatic brain injury, the repercussions are often far from mild! Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion or feeling "foggy"
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Memory problems
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Balance issues

For some, symptoms can appear instantly, while for others, it can take hours or even days -for them to develop. While most people recover fully with rest and proper care, it's important to take concussions seriously and seek medical attention — especially if symptoms worsen or continue for longer than expected. As a car accident lawyer in Knoxville, we often hear our clients say things like, 'It was just a concussion' as if it is nothing to worry about, but the truth is that any brain injury has the potential to impact your life long-term, and it needs to be taken seriously.

You Don't Need to Hit Your Head to Get a Concussion!

Concussions are most commonly associated with hitting your head on something, and a car accident certainly presents plenty of opportunities. You may knock your head on the window, the steering wheel, or even the headrest, but did you know that you don't necessarily have to hit your head to get a concussion? When you are involved in a car accident, the unexpected impact can shake your brain inside your skull, causing it to slam against the bony surface. There may be no visible evidence externally of this injury, and you may not even lose consciousness, but a CT scan or MRI can show the damage. This is one of the reasons it is so important to seek medical attention following a car accident, even if you don't think you are seriously injured. It is important to get treatment and to document your injury in your medical records so your car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN, can use this to support your claim for compensation.

Concussion Symptoms Can Be Delayed

One of the things that can make a concussion so dangerous is that the symptoms can be delayed. In some cases, symptoms of a concussion may not appear until several days or even weeks after the accident. You might feel completely normal at first, but a serious head injury can still develop over time and have a significant impact on your life. This again highlights the importance of seeking medical attention after an accident just to make sure there are no hidden injuries. Even if you are not initially diagnosed with a concussion, if you begin to experience symptoms such as light sensitivity, nausea, sluggish speech, or confusion in the weeks following a car accident, it is crucial that you visit a doctor for further investigation. Unfortunately, it is common for ER doctors not to diagnose concussions, especially when there is no visible injury, so it is wise to get a follow-up appointment with your primary care doctor for a more in-depth examination. This is also going to help your car accident lawyer in Knoxville to support your claim for compensation.

Post-Concussion Syndrome Can Be Long Term

While a concussion is usually expected to subside within 2 to 4 weeks following your car accident, some people do experience longer term symptoms. If these symptoms stick around for more than a month, it is possible that you have developed post-concussion syndrome (PCS), which can last for several months or even years. If you are concerned about ongoing symptoms, it is important to consult with your doctor to discuss the possibility of PCS. If you are suffering from PCS following a car accident, you should talk with a car accident injury lawyer to seek damages for loss of income and medical expenses. You may also be eligible for non-economic damages depending on how the injury impacts your life.

A concussion is not something to brush off—especially when it's the result of a car accident. Even if your symptoms seem minor at first or take time to appear, the effects can be serious and long-lasting. Seeking immediate medical attention and proper documentation is critical for your health and protecting your legal rights. If you're dealing with the aftermath of a concussion from a car accident, a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN, can help you navigate the legal process, secure fair compensation, and ensure your future is protected.

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Butler, Vines and Babb is a leading law firm in Knoxville, TN, with extensive litigation experience in Medical Malpractice Law Birth Injury Law, Trucking Accident Law, Personal Injury Law, and Business Law. Contact us today at www.bvblaw.com or call 865-637-3531.

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