What to Do If You Suffered a Concussion After a Car Accident


After a car accident concussion, get medical attention immediately, even if your symptoms seem mild. Then, document everything, follow your treatment plan, and consult a Madison car accident attorney to protect your right to compensation.

Common Symptoms of a Concussion After a Car Accident

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can occur when the sudden force of a collision causes your brain to shift inside the skull. Symptoms may appear immediately, but they can also develop hours or even days later. 

Watch for these warning signs of a concussion:

  • A persistent headache 
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Blurred vision 
  • Sensitivity to light and noise
  • Fatigue or sleep disturbances
  • Confusion or trouble concentrating
  • Memory gaps surrounding the crash
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Slurred speech or delayed responses
  • Brief loss of consciousness
  • Mood shifts, irritability, or depression
  • Altered taste or smell

Always seek medical care after a car accident. If any of these symptoms appear after your initial treatment, return to your doctor right away for a follow-up evaluation.

Why You Need to Seek Immediate Medical Attention After a Collision

A concussion left untreated can have serious consequences. What feels like a minor headache may mask bleeding, swelling, or pressure building within the skull. Without medical care, complications like second-impact syndrome, prolonged post-concussion symptoms, or permanent cognitive deficits become more likely. 

If you suspect a concussion after a car accident, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for an evaluation. Request copies of all medical records, diagnostic imaging, and discharge instructions, as these documents will serve as evidence of your injury. Rest as directed, avoid screens and strenuous activity, and attend every follow-up appointment with your physician or a neurologist. Then, speak to a Wisconsin car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

Recoverable Damages in a Wisconsin Concussion Injury Claim

If another driver’s negligence caused your concussion, Wisconsin law allows you to pursue compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. The purpose of these claims is to restore you financially for the losses the accident forced upon you.

In your concussion injury claim, you can secure compensation for:

  • Emergency room and ongoing medical expenses
  • Neurological testing, imaging, and specialist visits
  • Rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, and counseling
  • Lost wages and benefits during your recovery period
  • Diminished future earning capacity if you are unable to return to work
  • Out-of-pocket expenses tied to your treatment, such as transportation
  • Permanent disability, chronic pain, and other physical losses linked to the concussion
  • Emotional distress and reduced quality of life

Speak with a Wisconsin Car Accident Attorney About Your Collision

A concussion can reshape the way you think, work, and relate to the people you love. You shouldn’t carry that burden alone, and you shouldn’t have to fight insurance companies while your brain is still healing. The attorneys at Cannon & Dunphy S.C. understand the lasting impact of traumatic brain injuries, and we can handle the legal pressure so you can focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation about your case.