Concussion from a Bicycle Accident | Arvada Colorado | D.J. Banovitz

It’s not uncommon for a bicyclist to sustain head trauma in a bike accident. While helmets may prevent or reduce severity of injuries in some cases, some cyclists may still suffer closed head injuries like a concussion.

Overview of a Concussion and Its Impact on Patients

A concussion occurs as a result of the brain slamming against the inside of the skull. It is sometimes referred to as a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

In the short term, a TBI can lead to:

memory loss;
blurred vision;
nausea;
vomiting; and
headaches.

Even short-term symptoms can last for weeks or months.

In the long term, a severe concussion could cause:

changes in the person’s personality;
sleep disturbances;
emotional outbursts;
motor dysfunction;
cognitive impairment;

mood swings; and
depression.

For some, these symptoms persist for months and others never fully recover.

Other types of symptoms that may indicate someone has sustained a concussion in a bicycle accident include:

loss of consciousness;
irritability;
confusion;
light and noise sensitivity;
ringing in the ears;
slurred speech; and
fatigue.

Concussions differently affect each person. Despite the term “mild,” any brain injury can cause serious damage. It’s important to seek treatment and take the necessary steps to also seek justice if the bicycle accident was someone else’s fault.

Treatment and Seeking Compensation

Treatment is fairly limited with a concussion, usually:

a reduction in work;
rest; and
specialized medical care.

Sometimes medication is necessary if the person is also experiencing seizures or pain. If the individual is unable to take care of him/herself, a caregiver might be needed. Victims should seek any out-of-pocket costs in a claim if the accident was someone else’s fault. The claim should also include all of the medical bills and treatment costs associated with the head injury.

Documentation showing the amount of time missed from work is important, as an injury claim could also address the wages the bicyclist lost because of the accident and injury.

In some cases it might also be possible to obtain damages for:

pain and suffering;
mental anguish;
disability; and
other physical/emotional losses.

Why It May Be Necessary to Seek Legal Counsel after a Bicycle Accident

Unless a bicyclist has walked away with nothing more than a few cuts and bruises, it’s usually in his/her best interest to talk with an attorney after the accident. The impact of the accident upon the person’s life can be significant: financially, psychologically and physically. I’s important to make sure you explore all options when someone’s careless or reckless actions are responsible for the accident.

Whether injured while riding on a main thoroughfare in Arvada, like Ralston Road, or just a side street, the potential to suffer long-lasting or permanent harm is significant. To ensure that a claim addresses not only immediate but future needs, seek legal advice

D.J. Banovitz can:

review your case details;
explain options that may be available; and
help you collect and organize evidence necessary for your claim and/or lawsuit.

Call to set up an appointment: 303-300-5060.