Do Concussions from Car Accidents Often Go Undiagnosed?

Car accidents can cause a range of injuries, including concussions that are frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed. Because symptoms do not always appear immediately, many injured individuals underestimate the severity of their conditions and go undiagnosed. Recognizing the signs, understanding the risks, and seeking timely medical care are key to protecting one’s health after a crash.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head that disrupts normal brain function. It can occur even without direct contact with the skull, as the rapid back-and-forth motion during a collision can cause the brain to move inside the skull.

Why Are Concussions Often Missed After Car Accidents?

Concussions are commonly overlooked because the signs are not always obvious right away. Many people feel fine immediately after an accident and only notice problems hours or days later, while emergency rooms often focus on life-threatening injuries; subtle neurological issues may be missed. Additionally, diagnostic imaging such as CT scans may not detect mild concussions.

What Are the Common Signs of a Concussion After a Crash?

Headaches, nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to light, and confusion are among the most common symptoms. Some people may also experience fatigue, blurred vision, or memory problems. Emotional changes like irritability or sudden mood swings can also signal a concussion. Because these symptoms can develop gradually, individuals may not connect them to the collision.

How Long After an Accident Can Symptoms Appear?

Concussion symptoms can emerge immediately or take several hours to days to become noticeable. Some individuals report feeling normal at the scene, only to experience headaches, dizziness, or memory issues later. Delayed onset can make diagnosis challenging, especially when adrenaline masks early warning signs.

What Are the Risks of Leaving a Concussion Untreated?

Untreated concussions can lead to persistent headaches, difficulty concentrating, and long-term cognitive impairment. In severe cases, repeated head trauma can increase the likelihood of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) or other neurological disorders. Failing to seek treatment also increases the risk of “second impact syndrome,” where another injury occurs before the brain has healed, potentially leading to life-threatening consequences.

How Do Doctors Diagnose a Concussion?

Medical providers use a combination of physical exams, neurological evaluations, and cognitive assessments to identify concussions. Imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans may rule out bleeding or more serious brain injuries, but are not always reliable for detecting mild concussions. Doctors also rely on patient-reported symptoms, so accurate and timely communication is critical for proper diagnosis.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

Any head injury or symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, or prolonged headaches warrant immediate medical evaluation. Even if you feel fine after a collision, a healthcare professional can identify hidden injuries. Early assessment allows for better treatment planning and can prevent complications from worsening over time.

Can Children Experience Delayed Concussion Symptoms?

Yes, children may develop symptoms hours or even days after a car accident. They might have difficulty communicating discomfort, which makes diagnosis more challenging. Parents should watch for behavioral changes, increased irritability, or trouble focusing in school. Early medical attention is especially important for children because developing brains may be more susceptible to long-term effects.

Do You Always Lose Consciousness With a Concussion?

No, most concussions occur without any loss of consciousness. Many people mistakenly believe they are uninjured because they did not faint or black out. In reality, mild concussions are more common and often present with subtle symptoms like trouble concentrating or mild confusion. These cases still require prompt medical care to reduce long-term risks.

Our Victorville Car Accident Lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel Can Review Your Case in Detail

If you need legal guidance for a car accident-related concussion, contact our Victorville car accident lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel. Call 909-889-1131 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. With offices in Ontario and Victorville, we serve clients across the Inland Empire, including San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and the surrounding areas.