Concussions

Concussions happen when an injury to the head causes the brain to strike the skull. Concussions can cause serious brain malfunctions, even though they rarely manifest themselves as external injuries. A concussion can range in severity from mild to critical, with the most extreme cases of concussion resulting in life-long problems, including memory loss. Recovery from a concussion injury can be a long, arduous, and expensive process.

The most common causes of concussion are car accidents, fights, industrial accidents, sports injuries, and falls. The severity of the concussion is usually directly related to the force of the blow to the head. A concussion’s seriousness also generally corresponds to the length of unconsciousness following the accident. Most people suffering concussion experience the most memory loss immediately following the injury that caused the concussion, and memory recovering in the time following is not uncommon. In some cases, however, the concussion causes memory damage that is not reparable.

If you or someone you know is injured and you suspect a concussion, look for the following signs: repetitive vomiting, unequal pupils, and confused mental state. Other concussion symptoms include varying levels of consciousness, seizure-like activity, weakness on one side of the body, and coma. Concussions can be nothing more than a mild annoyance, or they can result in life-threatening conditions. Any concussion victim exhibiting the above symptoms may be suffering brain damage as a result of their concussion, and should immediately receive medical attention.

The memory loss, inability to concentrate and other results of concussion injuries can adversely affect an individual’s life, making everyday tasks impossible. If a concussion resulted from the fault or negligence of another, the party responsible for the concussion may be obligated to pay for medical fees, lost wages, and other damages associated with the concussion. You may want to contact an attorney familiar with concussion damages to review your case and learn more about your rights.