Concussion After a Car Accident

If you or your loved one suffered a concussion after a car accident, our law firm is here to help. At our Chicago-based office, our legal team focuses on representing individuals who are dealing with the long-term effects of head injuries caused by auto accidents. Whether you’re coping with missed work, medical expenses, or persistent symptoms, our attorneys are ready to help you pursue fair compensation and hold the at-fault driver responsible.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or sudden jolt that disrupts normal brain function. While often labeled as “mild,” concussion injuries can lead to severe symptoms and long-term effects, especially if proper medical care isn’t received right away.

What Are Common Symptoms of a Concussion After a Car Accident?

Common symptoms of a concussion can appear right away or develop over time. These may include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and nausea. Some people experience excessive sleeping after a car crash, difficulty concentrating, or memory issues. Emotional changes like irritability or depression are also possible. Because symptoms vary from person to person, it’s essential to watch for any changes in behavior or cognitive function and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist.

How Do Medical Professionals Diagnose Concussions?

To diagnose a concussion after a car crash, medical professionals rely on a combination of neurological exams, cognitive tests, and a review of the patient’s symptoms. These evaluations help assess memory, concentration, balance, and coordination. While imaging tests like a CT scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help rule out bleeding or more severe brain injuries, they often appear normal in cases of mild traumatic brain injury. A normal scan doesn’t rule out a concussion, which is why diagnosis usually depends on symptom patterns and clinical judgment rather than relying solely on imaging results like CT or MRI.

How Are Concussion Injuries Treated?

Treatment for concussion injuries often involves more than just rest. Medical care may include cognitive rest, prescription medications, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments with medical professionals. Some patients need ongoing neurological exams or cognitive tests to monitor their recovery. If symptoms worsen or point to a more serious traumatic brain injury, advanced diagnostic tests or even surgery may be required. These treatments can quickly lead to high medical bills and time away from work. Through a personal injury claim, you may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs.

How Much Can Chicago Car Accident Victims Recover for a Concussion?

According to Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the average award for concussion-related claims is around $214,328, while the median award is $87,714. Settlements and verdicts have ranged from as low as $6,770 to as high as $1.95 million.

Several factors influence case value:

• Medical expenses: Costs related to ER visits, follow-up appointments, and prescription medications.
• Ongoing treatment: Physical therapy or extended care from healthcare providers for persistent symptoms like depression, memory issues, or slurred speech.
• Lost wages: Income lost due to time off work, including future earnings if the injury affects your ability to return to your job.
• Severity of symptoms: More severe or long-lasting concussion symptoms–such as post-concussive syndrome, mood swings, or persistent headaches–often result in higher compensation.
• Permanent brain damage: If a traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes lasting cognitive or physical impairment, the claim value can increase significantly.
• Liability: Whether the at-fault driver is clearly identified, and the strength of the supporting medical records and neurological exam results.

What Damages Are Awarded in Claims Involving Concussion After a Car Accident?

Injury claims involving a concussion after an auto accident often result in compensation for a wide range of damages. These may include medical bills for emergency room visits, prescription medications, and follow-up care with healthcare providers. If symptoms persist, ongoing treatment may be required. Victims can also recover lost income for time missed from work and may be compensated for reduced earning capacity. Non-economic damages often include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of normal life–especially when conditions like post-concussion syndrome lead to lasting effects. A strong personal injury claim can help secure fair compensation from the at-fault driver.

Example Motor Accident Cases Involving Concussion

$1.61 Million Verdict for Post-Concussion Syndrome

Krystle Muntean, 28, was rear-ended while stopped in traffic on Ashland Avenue in Chicago. She suffered post-concussion syndrome, chronic headaches, and neck pain. Though imaging tests were normal, her specialists confirmed the injuries were permanent. She underwent physical therapy, injections, and ongoing pain management. At trial, she sought damages for future treatment, pain, and loss of normal life. The defense argued her injuries had resolved. A jury disagreed, awarding her $1.61 million, including $510,000 for future medical expenses and substantial damages for pain and suffering.

$900,000 Verdict for TBI and Cognitive Impairment

William Pierros, 45, a professor, was rear-ended on I-290 near Mannheim Road. After developing concussion symptoms and post-concussion syndrome, he was later diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). He reported persistent memory issues, dizziness, and emotional struggles, confirmed by neuropsychological testing. Though a defense expert claimed his condition had resolved, Pierros showed permanent cognitive decline. His injuries affected both work and personal life. The jury awarded $900,000, including compensation for pain, emotional distress, and loss of normal life, finding his symptoms were linked to the car crash.

What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion After a Car Accident

If you suspect a concussion after an auto accident, taking quick and informed action can make a significant difference in your physical recovery and legal outcome.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Visit the emergency room right away to have your head injury assessed, even if symptoms seem mild. Prompt evaluation by medical professionals helps confirm the diagnosis, rule out other injuries, and create a medical record that supports your potential claim.

Track Concussion Symptoms

Keep a detailed record of concussion symptoms like headaches, mood swings, or difficulty falling asleep.

Consult an Attorney Before Speaking to Insurance Adjusters

Before providing any statements, contact a Chicago car accident lawyer who can protect your rights and help you pursue fair compensation.

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help

An experienced Chicago personal injury attorney can provide critical support if you suffered a concussion after a motor vehicle accident. Concussive injuries are often difficult to prove, especially when imaging tests like a CT scan or magnetic resonance imaging show no visible damage. An attorney can help gather medical records, expert opinions, and documentation of your concussion symptoms, including issues like persistent headaches, mood swings, or post-concussive syndrome. They’ll also handle communications with insurance companies, protect you from low settlement offers, and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term effects. With an experienced advocate on your side, you can focus on recovery while your attorney handles the legal process.

FAQs

Is a concussion considered a brain injury?

Yes, a concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury. Even though it’s labeled “mild,” it can lead to severe and long-lasting symptoms. A brain injury after a car accident should always be taken seriously, even if imaging tests come back normal.

What kind of head injuries can cause a concussion?

A concussion can result from a variety of impacts or motions during a crash, including:

• Direct head impact with the steering wheel, window, or headrest
• Airbag deployment
• Violent whiplash movement
• Sudden rotation of the head in a side-impact crash
• Rear-end car accidents can cause the brain to shift inside the skull
• Falling forward or sideways during impact

Do I need to go to the emergency room if I suspect a concussion?

Yes. If you suspect a concussion, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. An ER visit can help rule out more serious injuries and provide documentation if you later file a personal injury claim.

Book a Free Consultation and Secure the Legal Help You Need

If you suffered a concussion after a car accident, don’t wait to get legal guidance. A Chicago car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, and the lasting effects of your brain injury. Whether you’re dealing with post-concussion syndrome, persistent headaches, or other ongoing symptoms, legal support can make a real difference. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation. There’s no cost to speak with us, and no fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.