Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys Educating Clients on Post-Concussion Syndrome in Trenton, Levittown, Ewing, and across Mercer County Area

What is a concussion?

Concussions are a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that results in disrupted brain function. A blow to the head or a direct force impacts the upper body that, in turn, transmits force to the head causes a concussion. The injury may or may not result in a loss of consciousness. Although most victims are athletes participating in high-impact sports like football, car accidents, falls, household mishaps and other incidents also cause concussions. Even low-impact motor vehicle collisions can result in serious and long-lasting brain, neck and back injuries. While most concussions are relatively mild, seeking a full medical evaluation is vital to ensure the patient receives timely post-concussion treatment to achieve a full recovery.  This is why it is crucial to always visit a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident.

How Dangerous are Brain Injuries and Concussions?

Brain injuries resulting from head trauma are much more serious and longterm than once believed. A blow to the head received during a motor vehicle accident – or the severe neck strain and muscle damage of “whiplash” – can produce the same kind of brain injuries that soldiers in former combat zones suffered due to their proximity to an explosion.

Despite there being not as much research done into the link between car crashes and TBI, as compared to football players and military personnel, the process of healing from a brain injury can take a very long time, if recovery is even possible. Brain injuries especially can affect victims’ physical, cognitive, and even emotional health.

If you or a loved one has suffered an accident leading to a brain or spinal injury, you and your family may be entitled to financial compensation to cover damages including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, rehabilitation, and much more.

What is Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS)?

According to the Mayo Clinic, post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a complex disorder in which various symptoms – such as headaches and dizziness – last for weeks and sometimes months after the injury that caused the concussion.

Ada Health GmbH says 50% of people who sustain a concussion will experience PCS symptoms at about one month after the initial injury, while 15% will continue to experience PCS symptoms for one year after the initial injury.

The Neurological Rehabilitation Institute at Brookhaven Hospital cites a 2012 University of Oklahoma study on injured veterans diagnosed with brain injuries, which revealed that many of the subjects continued to experience headache pain and other symptoms as long as eight years after the injury date. Many of their symptoms worsened and increased over time, as did their likelihood of divorcing and becoming unemployed.

Brain injuries can be life-altering, and your condition may lead to permanent disability – preventing you from ever returning to work. Even in cases where TBI victims are able to return to work, permanent brain damage can significantly impact their lives. Fortunately New Jersey Civil Courts recognize these damages and frequently award higher payouts for victims of catastrophic injuries.

What are the Grades of a Concussion and Their Related Symptoms?

• Grade 0: headache and difficulty concentrating
• Grade 1 (mild): brief memory loss, confusion, headache, dizziness, nausea, no loss of consciousness; symptoms may last less than an hour, but can linger for days
• Grade 2 (moderate): symptoms similar to grade 1 symptoms and last from a half an hour to an entire day; can include lost consciousness for several minutes; tinnitus, amnesia, irritability, confusion, or dizziness are common
• Grade 3 (severe): unconsciousness and the lasting presence of grade 1 and 2 concussion symptoms; amnesia, and difficulty with language; professional treatment and observation are required since this grade of concussion can be a sign of mild brain damage
• Grade 4 (severe): symptoms of grade 2 and 3 concussions; loss of consciousness is greater than 1 minute

Additionally, lack of awareness, irritability, sensitivity to light or noise, memory problems, mood changes, sleep disturbances, persistent headaches, and even seizures are also signs of a concussion.

Morristown, NJ Post-Concussion Syndrome Accident Attorney Recovers Compensation

To recover full and fair compensation for your injuries, our Morristown attorney will need to prove that you were involved in an accident, your accident was directly caused by the negligence or recklessness of another party, and that your injuries were the direct result of the accident in question.

It is important to remember that once your personal injury settlement is final, there is no second chance to recover damages for a lifetime of medical bills, missed work, and other damages. Before signing any paperwork or agreeing to a lump sum settlement from an insurance provider, speak to our experienced Morristown attorney to understand your legal standing.

Sussex County Attorney Advises Important Steps to Take After a Vehicle Accident

In the immediate aftermath of an accident always seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you may have sustained an injury that has yet to present symptoms. Waiting to visit a doctor can negatively impact a future personal injury. A doctor will be able to determine your injuries through an examination. This will ensure a brain injury diagnosis as soon as possible so you can receive the proper medical treatment you need. A diagnosis from your doctor will also link your injury to your accident. Your physician will rule out any previous conditions as to the cause of your concussion or brain injury and attribute it to the actual accident and not something other than the car accident.

Consult our Hamilton Personal Injury Attorneys for advice today

Our attorneys at Cohen & Riechelson will review your personal injury claim.  We will work for hand in hand to get the compensation you deserve. To learn more about the potential for financial compensation through a personal injury claim, please contact us online or call our Mercer County NJ offices today at (215) 337-4915 for a free and confidential consultation.