Concussions are a serious form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain experiences sudden movement, typically due to a blow or violent jolt to the head. Depending on its severity and treatment, this type of injury can cause temporary cognitive impairments, physical symptoms, and long-term complications. As personal injury attorneys, we know how overwhelming the aftermath of a concussion can be, especially when someone else’s negligence causes it. Here, we’ll provide an in-depth look at concussion injuries, their symptoms, long-term effects, and what legal recourse you can pursue if you’ve suffered this injury.
A concussion occurs when the brain moves rapidly within the skull, leading to bruising, damage to blood vessels, and injury to nerves. It’s often categorized as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), but that designation can be misleading. Even a “mild” concussion can result in significant and lasting impairment. These injuries often result from falls, car accidents, sports-related incidents, and other situations where forceful impact or sudden movements affect the head.
The leading causes of concussions typically revolve around incidents where an individual’s head experiences trauma. Hiring a brain injury lawyer is recommended if another person is at fault. This trauma can occur due to:
Recognizing concussion symptoms is critical for timely medical intervention. Symptoms may appear immediately after the injury or manifest hours or days later. The following are common signs of a concussion:
Cognitive Symptoms:
Physical Symptoms:
Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms:
It’s important to seek medical attention immediately after a head injury, even if symptoms seem mild. A healthcare professional can perform diagnostic tests such as CT scans or MRIs to assess the extent of the injury.
While many people recover from concussions within a few weeks, some may experience longer-lasting or permanent symptoms. This is especially common if the individual has sustained multiple concussions over time. The long-term effects of concussions can include:
If left untreated or ignored, these long-term effects can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, affecting their ability to work, socialize, or even carry out day-to-day activities. Many concussions are mild, and the victim recovers fully. Others can be catastrophic and life-altering.
Children and older people are particularly vulnerable to concussions and their consequences. The brain is still developing in children, making them more susceptible to long-term damage. Additionally, young children may be unable to communicate symptoms effectively, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. In older adults, concussions can exacerbate pre-existing cognitive issues, and the healing process may take longer due to age-related factors.
If you’ve suffered a concussion due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help you recover damages for both economic damages and also non-economic damages. Here are some of the types of damages available in Texas.
To pursue legal action, it’s essential to establish that another party was responsible for your injury. This may involve proving negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing. A personal injury attorney experienced in concussion cases can gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
If you’ve experienced a head injury, taking immediate steps can significantly impact your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation:
Navigating the complexities of a concussion injury case can be challenging, particularly when dealing with insurance companies that may undervalue or deny your claim. An experienced attorney can help you:
Concussions, while often dismissed as minor injuries, can have profound effects on your life. You don’t have to face the challenges alone. If you’ve suffered a concussion due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation that can help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Baumgartner Law Firm
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, Texas 77069
(281) 587-1111
NEED HELP? HAVE QUESTIONS?