How to Determine If a Car Accident Victim Has Sustained a Concussion
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By PAGE Editor
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. Some are easy to spot, like cuts or broken bones. Others, like concussions, are hidden and harder to notice. A concussion is a type of brain injury that may happen even if the victim appears fine on the outside. Everyone should know that concussions are common injuries in car accidents .
In places with high traffic and busy roads, people are more likely to get into crashes that can cause head injuries. That’s why it’s important to know the signs. Many victims don’t realize they’ve been hurt until hours or even days later.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). It happens when a sudden impact or movement causes the brain to shake inside the skull. This can damage brain cells and affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries in the U.S. About 25% of TBI-related hospitalizations are caused by car accidents.
While most people recover fully from a concussion, ignoring the signs or delaying treatment can lead to long-term problems.
Signs of a Concussion
The symptoms of a concussion can be categorized into four main groups. Sometimes the signs are noticed immediately, but at other times, they develop gradually over several hours.
Physical Symptoms
These include:
Headache or pressure in the head
Dizziness or problems with balance
Blurred or double vision
Sensitivity to light or noise
These signs may appear within minutes after the accident or show up later in the day.
Emotional Symptoms
A person with a concussion might:
Feel irritable or angry for no reason
Seem unusually sad or anxious
Cry more easily
Have mood swings
These changes might not be evident at first, but can become clear to close friends or family.
Cognitive Symptoms
These affect how a person thinks or remembers things. The victim may:
Seem confused or slow to respond
Have trouble concentrating
Forget recent events
Feel mentally “foggy”
Even simple tasks may feel more complicated than usual.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
A concussion can disrupt a person's sleep patterns. Signs include:
Sleeping more than usual
Having trouble falling asleep
Feeling tired even after resting
Sleeping less than normal
Sleep changes may last for days or weeks, depending on how severe the injury is.
Seek Medical Attention
If someone exhibits any of these symptoms after a car crash, they should consult a doctor immediately. Even if the injury seems small, it’s better to be safe. A doctor might do a brain scan or other tests to check for serious problems.
It’s especially urgent to get help if the person:
Loses consciousness
Keeps vomiting
Has trouble walking or speaking
Feels weak in the arms or legs
Early treatment can help prevent more damage and support a faster recovery.
Conclusion
Concussions may be hidden, but they are a serious concern. After a car accident, always check for physical, emotional, mental, or sleep-related changes. In high-traffic cities, swift action and heightened awareness can make a significant difference. Don’t wait until symptoms get worse. If you think someone has a concussion, get help.
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