Delayed Concussion Symptoms After a Car Crash
After a car crash, injuries aren’t always immediately obvious. One particularly concerning injury that may not show symptoms right away is a concussion. A delayed concussion can cause serious health problems if left untreated, making it critical to recognize the warning signs early.
If you or a loved one suffered a head injury after a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Call the Olympia car accident attorneys at Brumley Law Firm now at (833) 832-2727 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation today.
Why Concussion Symptoms Can Be Delayed
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head. Even if there are no visible wounds, the brain can still suffer trauma from the force of the impact. Sometimes, the symptoms of this injury take hours – or even days – to develop.
There are several reasons for this delay:
- Shock and adrenaline: Immediately after an accident, your body releases stress hormones that can mask pain and symptoms.
- Slow swelling: Brain swelling or bleeding may happen gradually, making symptoms worsen over time.
- Minor symptoms at first: Early signs might seem mild, like slight dizziness or confusion, and be overlooked until they become more severe.
This delayed onset makes it extremely important to monitor your health carefully after any crash, even if you feel fine at first.
Common Delayed Symptoms of a Concussion
Symptoms of a concussion can vary widely, but delayed symptoms often include:
- Persistent headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Sleep disturbances (sleeping too much or too little)
- Emotional changes, like irritability or depression
In some cases, more severe issues – such as seizures or loss of consciousness – can develop if the concussion is serious or if bleeding in the brain occurs. Always take any unusual symptoms seriously after a car crash.
When to Seek Medical Attention
In Washington State, it’s common for accident victims to initially decline medical care, only to realize days later that something is wrong. However, delaying treatment can be dangerous – not only for your health but also for your potential injury claim.
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
- Worsening headaches
- Repeated vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness
- Any unusual behavior changes
Even if symptoms seem minor, getting evaluated can protect both your health and your legal rights. A medical record connecting your symptoms to the accident can be critical if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury lawsuit in Olympia, Washington.
How Delayed Symptoms Impact Your Legal Claim
Insurance companies often try to argue that delayed symptoms are unrelated to the crash. Without prompt medical documentation, it becomes harder to prove the accident caused your concussion.
In Washington, you generally have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car crash – but evidence needs to be collected early. Seeing a doctor right away and documenting all symptoms as they develop strengthens your claim.
An experienced Olympia brain injury attorney can help gather medical evidence, consult with experts if needed, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney Today
If you experienced delayed concussion symptoms after a car crash, you don’t have to navigate the recovery process alone. Brumley Law Firm is here to help. Call our experienced team today at (833) 832-2727 or fill out our quick online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you protect your health and your future.