In Cincinnati and throughout Ohio, auto accidents are all too common. They are especially problematic during the colder months and the holidays, as there are more people on the road and inclement weather can make driving hazardous.
Still, there are risks year-round with drivers who are speeding, distracted, reckless and under the influence.
The aftermath of a crash can cause a litany of problems for the injured, including medical expenses, problems at work, issues with being there for family members and more.
Readily apparent injuries like broken bones, cuts and bruises can be terrible, but at least they are easily diagnosable. Soft tissue injuries, back injuries and especially head injuries are more complicated. This can be especially true for concussions.
Understanding concussions
The news media have paid a lot of attention to concussions in recent years due to their prevalence among athletes. Concussions can also come about in motor vehicle accidents.
If such an accident is the result of another driver’s negligence, the injured can seek compensation for their damages.
A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury. It results from being hit on the head or a violent shaking like whiplash. Both can happen in a crash. People might function under the misconception that people need to lose consciousness to have a concussion, but that is not the case.
It is important to recognize the signs of concussion. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, unusual fatigue, blurred vision, a ringing in the ears, a lack of clarity, forgetfulness and dizziness.
Others might notice the person slurring their words, looking dazed, losing consciousness and acting in an unusual way.
Concussions can inhibit concentration, lead to light sensitivity and make a person irritable. This can not only cause challenges in the immediate aftermath, but the symptoms can persist for a long time, changing the person’s entire life.
It is possible to seek compensation after an auto accident-related concussion
Because concussions can have a range of effects in the short and long term, it is wise to have comprehensive assistance that is fully aware of how to assess and pursue brain injury cases.
People whose lives have been radically changed by a concussion suffered in an auto accident must get an accurate diagnosis, have help accruing evidence, and know what options are available to recover financially and personally.