Head injuries are some of the most common injuries sustained in auto accidents. These injuries can range from mild concussions to serious head injuries with life-altering complications and even death.
However, head injury symptoms do not always show up right away. It can take days, weeks or longer after an accident to notice symptoms. This can make it harder to initially link a head injury to an auto accident. The insurance company may question your head injury to diminish or devalue your claim.
Since these injuries can have severe consequences and require extensive medical care, we recommend reaching out to an Appleton auto accident lawyer to learn more about your legal options. You may be eligible to claim the compensation you need for your injuries. The initial consultation is free of charge.
Call (920) 260-4528 to learn more about legal options.
Head Injuries Often Caused by Auto Accidents
Head injuries can be open or closed. An open head injury refers to an injury that does not penetrate the skull whereas a closed head injury refers to an injury that penetrates the skull and enters the brain.
Some of the most common head injuries after an auto accident include:
- Concussions – This is a mild traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow or jolt to the head. Any auto accident that causes a sudden jerking of the head or neck can cause a concussion.
- Contusions – An impact to the head in an auto accident can cause a contusion or bruise. Severe contusions can cause internal swelling/bleeding that requires immediate medical attention.
- Hematomas – This can happen when bleeding under the skull in the brain forms a clot.
- Hemorrhages – Uncontrolled bleeding from the brain can cause a hemorrhage in an accident.
- Skull fractures – A break or fracture in the skull can increase the risk of a traumatic brain injury.
Any auto accident can cause a head injury, even at low speeds and without a blow to the head. However, certain types of accidents are more likely to cause damage to the head, skull and brain.
A rear-end accident can cause the head to move rapidly forward and backward, resulting in whiplash. In a front-end accident, the head can hit the steering wheel or dashboard, resulting in a serious injury.
Side-impact accidents can also cause the head to hit the window or another object in the vehicle, resulting in a skull fracture or a potentially penetrating brain injury. Even in a rollover, an auto accident victim can sustain a serious head injury, resulting in permanent and irreversible damage to the brain.
Importance of Seeking Medical Treatment
It is important to seek immediate medical treatment after an auto accident to check for head injuries. Even if you feel fine and do not think you suffered an impact to the head, these injuries can get worse without treatment and may result in serious complications if you are not seen by a doctor.
Certain signs and symptoms of a head injury may not be apparent for days or weeks. This is partly due to the shock and adrenaline many auto accident victims experience that may suppress pain and other symptoms. For instance, a concussion can go undiagnosed for some time. Severe concussions may take months to fully heal. The recovery process can be much longer and slower for these head injuries.
The effects of a head injury can also be long-lasting. Some auto accident victims with a traumatic brain injury may make a complete recovery, while others may never be able to return to normal. Talking to the doctor about even the most minor symptoms you are experiencing can make it less difficult for him or her to better understand the extent of your head injury to get you the treatment you need.
If you hit your head on the steering wheel or the window in the accident, be sure to describe how and what part of your head was impacted. If you are unsure about your injury, be honest with the doctor.
Do not lie or exaggerate about your head injury as this could affect your eligibility for compensation. The insurance company may devalue your claim by arguing that you were not injured, that your injury is not as serious as you say, or that your injury was caused by something other than the auto accident.
Linking Your Head Injury to the Auto Accident
Since a head injury can range in severity and have hidden symptoms, linking this type of injury to an auto accident can present challenges. If an auto accident victim does not seek medical care or delays treatment, it may be harder to prove a connection between the injury and the accident.
That is why it is in your best interest to work with a lawyer who has the knowledge, skills and experience of handling a variety of auto accident claims. Unlike the insurance company, a lawyer will advocate for your rights. He or she can help you build a strong case and fight for maximum compensation.
Evidence that may help support your head injury and its impact on your life includes:
- Photos taken at the accident scene may show how you may have sustained a head injury
- Photos taken of your injury may show visible bruising, bleeding or swelling of the head
- Imaging test results (X-rays and MRIs) may show the existence of a serious head injury
Your medical records can also help show that you sought treatment and followed the doctor’s orders. The insurance company will have a harder time disproving your injury and its direct link to the accident.
Contact Us to Schedule a Free Consultation
If you have suffered a head injury in an auto accident, our lawyers at Sigman Janssen are here to help. We have helped many auto accident victims and their loved ones pursue compensation for their medical bills, lost wages and more. To date, we have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.
Contact us today to schedule your free case review. The consultation we offer comes with no obligation to hire our firm. If you have a viable case, we charge nothing up front. We only get paid if you get paid.
Millions Recovered. Proven Results. Ph: (920) 260-4528.