Concussion from a Car Accident in Denver

So far in 2014, from January to August, there have been 319 fatal accidents in the state of Colorado, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.

But not all accidents are fatal. A nonfatal accident can still cause serious injuries. One of the most common injuries caused by a car accident is a concussion. If you or a family member has suffered from a concussion from a car accident in Denver, seek help from a personal injury attorney today.

Car Accident in Denver: Signs of a Minor Concussion

Concussions can result when a car suddenly decelerates in an accident. The result in terms of brain damage is that occupants’ brains will continue to move forward even as the skull stops and is pulled back in a whiplash motion, causing a minor to severe impact between the soft mass of the brain and the hard shell of the skull. This causes a concussion.

Concussions may also result from striking the head on a steering wheel or other object within the vehicle. Concussions can be either minor or severe – the former usually alleviates itself with rest; the latter may require immediate medical care.

MedlinePlus states that signs of a minor concussion may include the following.

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Minor confusion
• Seeing imaginary flashing lights
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Brief loss of consciousness
• Amnesia
• The inability to think clearly or concentrate

If symptoms persist, or if you notice any of the changes above in a loved one following an accident, tell your doctor. In fact, always seek medical evaluation following an accident, even if you feel fine.

Car Accident in Denver: Symptoms of a Severe Concussion

A severe concussion requires immediate medical treatment. Some can be fatal or cause permanent brain damage. The symptoms of a severe concussion are typically much easier to identify.

• Unevenly sized pupils (one will be more dilated than the other)
• Seizures or spasms
• Uncontrollable vomiting that doesn’t cease
• Trouble walking or maintaining balance
• Unconsciousness that lasts for a long time (the person cannot be woken)
• Severe confusion
• Muscle weakness
• Abnormal eye movements

Car Accident in Denver: Treating a Concussion

Treatment will largely depend on the severity of the concussion, as well as any other injuries the victim has suffered. Minor injuries may require no treatment other than rest. However, more severe injuries may require a hospital stay for observation. In some cases surgery may be necessary if there is a skull fracture or other serious injuries also present.

Patients may need to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks during recovery. This may include activities that can put them at risk of suffering additional head injuries, including contact sports or sports like skiing or biking in and around Denver. Patients should follow all restrictions outlined by their doctor.

Car Accident in Denver: Who’s liable for your concussion?

If you or a loved one suffered a concussion from a car accident in Denver that resulted in costly medical bills or permanent loss of function, seek compensation for damages.

If someone else’s irresponsible actions – like speeding, driving aggressively, disobeying traffic laws, or driving while under the influence – caused your accident, you may hold that party liable. You may recover damages in the form of medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of wages, and more. An attorney can guide you through your compensation options, and provide you with more information about how to prove the liability of the person who caused your accident.

Speak with a Car Accident Attorney in Denver Today

After you’ve been in an accident and sustained an injury like a concussion, the last thing you want to do is have to file an insurance claim or take legal action. Your personal injury attorney can handle the legal process for you so you can focus on recovery.

To get started on pursuing your personal injury claim, contact attorney D.J. Banovitz at 303-300-5060 or fill out the form on our contact page.