Many people in Oklahoma and across the country underestimate the consequences of concussions. They might not realize that a concussion is a brain injury that follows a blow to the head in a fall, car accident or on the sports field. Even if the person seems fine, a concussion can cause confusion, problems with vision, speech, memory and balance, and it could remain hidden for days or even weeks.
If left untreated, it can cause long-term health problems, especially in a person who suffers repeated concussions. Even without the head striking anything, the impact of a crash can cause the brain to bounce from side to side and smash into the hard inner walls of the skull. Depending on the severity of the impact, bruising, tearing, and bleeding on the brain could occur. The victim might be dizzy, confused and unable to remember what happened immediately after the incident, or in the following hours or days.
The severity of the brain injury depends on the amount of time the victim was unconscious or suffered amnesia. Emergency treatment is crucial if the injured person vomits, loses consciousness, having seizures or obvious mental and physical problems. Although concussion symptoms typically disappear gradually over three to four weeks, recovery is best achieved under the care of a doctor.
The medical expenses and lost wages after suffering a traumatic brain injury could significantly impact the victim’s financial stability. If another person’s negligence caused the accident that led to the injuries and subsequent damages, an experienced attorney could assist with the navigation of a personal injury lawsuit in an Oklahoma civil court. The successful presentation of such a claim will lead to a monetary judgment to cover documented losses — both financial and emotional.