Concussion Injuries in California: Symptoms, Treatment, and How to Claim Fair Legal Compensation

Although many people think of a concussion as just a minor bump to the head, it is actually a serious brain injury that can lead to long-term consequences. Even a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) can make you unable to work, disrupt your daily routine, and affect your overall quality of life. In more severe cases, a TBI may cause confusion, memory loss, sleep disturbances, and mood swings.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. However, pursuing a personal injury settlement for a concussion can be complex and challenging. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.

At Adamson Ahdoot, our highly skilled legal team is here to help concussion injury victims across California. Contact us today at (800) 310-1606 or submit an online consultation to get the legal guidance you deserve.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that occurs when a person experiences a blow, impact, or sudden jolt to the head. This forceful movement causes the brain to collide with the inside of the skull, potentially damaging brain tissue and rupturing blood vessels.

While concussions are considered “mild” TBIs in medical terms, they can still lead to serious physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that may require medical attention and time to heal.

Common Causes of Concussion

A concussion can occur during many everyday activities, whether at work, while shopping, or driving. However, certain causes are far more common and account for a significant proportion of reported TBIs each year.

In California, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of concussions, with motor vehicle accidents ranking second.

The impact of sustaining a brain injury can be devastating. Concussions not only affect a victim’s physical health but also disrupt their emotional well-being and daily life. In many cases, ongoing medical care and psychological support are necessary for a full recovery.

Some of the most common causes of concussion include:

• Slips and Falls: Particularly in workplaces, public spaces, or poorly maintained properties.
• Workplace Accidents: Especially in construction, manufacturing, or jobs with fall risks.
• Sports-related Injuries: Common in contact sports like football, soccer, or boxing.
• Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Accidents: Sudden impacts during collisions are a frequent cause of head injuries.
• Physical Assaults: Blows to the head resulting from violent altercations.
• Medical Malpractice: In unusual circumstances, negligent medical care can cause or exacerbate a concussion.

Symptoms and Common Effects of Head Trauma

Depending on the severity and nature of the injury, concussion symptoms can appear immediately after the impact or develop gradually over several hours or even days. But, how can you tell the difference between a minor bump on the head and a serious concussion?

Here are the most common concussion symptoms to watch out for:

• A prolonged or severe headache.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Memory loss (amnesia).
• Confusion or disorientation.
• Seizures.
• Balance problems or dizziness.
• Slurred speech.
• Mood swings, irritability, or emotional changes.
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
• Vision problems or changes in eyesight.

If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury and is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications and facilitate a smoother recovery.

Concussion Treatment Options

Head injuries can occur in many ways, and the treatment options available will depend on the severity of the concussion. In most cases, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and allowing the brain to rest and heal properly.

Doctors typically recommend both physical and cognitive rest. This means limiting physical activities that could worsen symptoms and avoiding mental tasks that require intense concentration. Reducing screen time, minimizing exposure to bright lights, and taking breaks from work are often necessary during the recovery period. To alleviate discomfort, doctors may prescribe medication for headaches, nausea, or sleep disturbances. However, any medication should only be taken under proper medical supervision.

It’s important to remember that no two concussions are the same. While some people recover quickly from a concussion, others require weeks or even months to return to their normal routines. The type and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the injury and how the individual responds to care.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Concussion Injury?

In concussion injury cases, liability depends directly on how the injury occurred. It is essential to identify the negligent party when filing a personal injury claim and pursuing fair compensation.

Parties that often cause concussion injuries and may be legally responsible include:

• Negligent Drivers: Especially in cases where the concussion resulted from a car accident caused by distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, or reckless behavior.
• Business or Property Owners: When the injury occurs due to hazardous property conditions, such as wet floors, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces that cause slips and falls.
• Schools, Coaches, or Sport Centers: If the injury happened during sports or recreational activities, where safety protocols were not properly followed.
• Medical Professionals: When medical negligence or malpractice causes or worsens a concussion injury.
• Aggressors: In cases where the concussion resulted from physical violence, assaults, or altercations.

Types of Compensation in a Concussion Lawsuit

The compensation or settlement you may receive for a concussion depends on the specifics of your personal injury, the severity of your symptoms, and the overall impact of the injury on your daily life. In a brain injury lawsuit, compensation for these factors is known as damages.

• Special Damages: These cover specific, quantifiable expenses such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any property damage resulting from the accident.
• General Damages: These compensate for non-economic losses that affect your quality of life, including physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Future Damages: If your concussion has lasting effects, you may be entitled to compensation for future medical treatments, ongoing therapy, and loss of earning capacity.
• Punitive Damages: These are awarded in cases where the responsible party’s conduct was especially reckless, malicious, or grossly negligent. They aim to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.

How Does the Concussion Recovery Process Affect Your Settlement?

The time it takes you to recover from a concussion can have a significant impact on the amount of your personal injury settlement. When determining the settlement value, insurance companies and courts typically consider several key factors related to your recovery, including:

• The length of time for which you are unable to perform your usual daily activities.
• The severity and persistence of your concussion symptoms.
• The physical pain and emotional distress caused by limitations in your daily life.
• The need for ongoing medical care, including follow-up consultations, treatments, or therapy, after the accident.

Contact Our Experienced Injury Attorneys Today

Recovering from a concussion while dealing with legal issues can be overwhelming and emotionally challenging. This is why having an experienced attorney by your side every step of the way is essential.

At Adamson Ahdoot, we work hard to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve. If you have suffered a concussion and are seeking a fair settlement, we can handle the complex legal aspects of your personal injury case, allowing you to focus fully on your recovery.

Contact us today at (800) 310-1606, or submit an online inquiry to learn more about your rights and how we can assist you.