
Power of Attorney
Accidents can happen in a variety of scenarios. Minus any immediate symptoms, such as broken bones, obvious bruises, or bleeding, you may be tempted to brush off any possible injuries you sustain as relatively minor and inconsequential. Many people don’t realize it, but even a minor accident can have major consequences, which is why it is important to have your power of attorney established. Anytime an accident involves a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, it is important to be aware of the serious and possibly permanent damages it can cause. Concussions are one of the most common types of personal injuries and medical experts continue to uncover the serious ramifications these injuries can have on every area of a victim’s life.
The following is a brief overview of the impact concussions can have on accident victims from a personal injury lawyer from the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A.
Signs and Symptoms of Concussion
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), a concussion involves any type of injury to the head that disrupts the brains normal processes and functions. In cases of a mild concussion, there may be no immediate or obvious outward signs or symptoms. As a result, victims may be tempted to shrug off a bump or blow to the head, not reporting it or seeking the medical attention they need.
However, everyone should know that even a minor concussion is nothing to take lightly, as it can have long-term impacts on your physical health and emotional well-being. The following signs and symptoms are ones you should be on the alert for and initiate a call to your medical provider if any appear:
- Loss of memory regarding the injury or confusion about the circumstances leading to the accident
- Headaches and ringing in the ears
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Dizziness and lack of coordination
- Impaired sense of balance
- Sensitivity to light and vision disturbances
- Increased agitation and distractibility
Post-Concussion Syndrome
These symptoms can last for a period of weeks or even months, impairing the victim’s ability to work or engage in their normal activities. In cases where a victim may have suffered a previous mild concussion, the odds for long-ranging and permanently disabling effects increase.
Post-concussion syndrome was initially discovered by sports doctors analyzing the frequent head injuries among pro football players. However, the research clearly indicated that this syndrome could impact anyone who has suffered bumps or blows to the head and had little to do with the severity of the initial injury.
Symptoms of post-concussion syndrome are largely the same as with a concussion. The difference is that these symptoms tend to be more severe and instead of lasting months, they can occur over the course of years. Post-concussion syndrome can result in damage to the brain’s structure and permanent impairments in thought processes, limiting the individual’s cognitive abilities and having profound changes in their personality.
If your concussion was a result of an accident caused by another party, you may be entitled to financial compensation in a personal injury claim or lawsuit. A skilled personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and explain what legal recourse you may have.