Car accidents are notorious for causing severe injuries, with concussions being one of the most prevalent and critical outcomes. A concussion, a form of traumatic brain injury (TBI), can result from the violent forces experienced during a car crash, where the brain impacts the inner skull or undergoes violent shaking.
Concussion victims should know their legal options
But what steps should you take if you suffer from a concussion due to another driver's negligence in a collision? Questions arise about who is responsible for covering your injury-related expenses, the available legal options, and the best course of action to pursue.
If you or someone you love sustained a concussion in an Alabama car wreck, an experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, assess liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How common are car accident concussions?
Car accident-related concussions are alarmingly prevalent, making them one of the most frequently occurring injuries in such incidents.
To put it into perspective, approximately 289,000 individuals across the nation suffer from concussions annually as a direct result of motor vehicle accidents, according to comprehensive concussion injury statistics meticulously gathered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This means a concussion occurs roughly every 1 minute and 10 seconds following a car crash.
Moreover, 17 percent of the total 1.7 million concussions that occur annually result from motor vehicle accidents, as per the CDC's findings.
Warning signs of a concussion
Recognizing the warning signs of a concussion following a car accident is essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention. Some common warning signs to watch for include:
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Confusion
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue
- Changes in mood
- Blurry vision
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
It's important to note that the onset of concussion symptoms may not be immediate and can appear hours or even days after the car accident. As such, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly, even if you initially feel fine, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a full recovery and minimizing potential long-term effects. Consulting a healthcare professional is strongly advised if you or someone you know experiences these warning signs after a car wreck.
How much can you claim for a concussion?
Determining the specific amount you can claim for a concussion resulting from a car accident can be complex and depends on various factors. The value of your claim can vary based on:
- Medical Expenses: You can typically claim the cost of medical treatment for your concussion, including hospital bills, doctor's visits, diagnostic tests, medication, and rehabilitation expenses.
- Lost Wages: If your concussion forces you to miss work or diminishes your earning capacity, you may be eligible to claim lost wages or future income loss.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by your concussion may also be sought. This is often challenging to quantify and varies based on the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life.
- Permanent Disability: If your concussion leads to long-term or permanent disability, you may be entitled to additional compensation to cover ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and the cost of adapting your living environment.
To determine exactly how much you can claim for your concussion, it's essential to consult with a car accident attorney. A lawyer can assess your case's unique circumstances, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve to cover your losses.
Don't Hesitate...Call Dean Waite
At Dean Waite & Associates, LLC in Mobile, AL, our car accident attorneys are here to help if you've sustained a concussion or any other injury in a crash. We understand what it takes to win complex personal injury claims, including those involving traumatic brain injuries.
Our dedicated legal team can assess the details of your case, calculate the full extent of your damages, and navigate the legal process on your behalf. We'll work diligently to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests, striving to secure the maximum compensation available to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from your concussion.
Get the Alabama law firm that gets results. Contact us today to see how we can help with your potential concussion injury claim or lawsuit.