If a person hits against a hard surface or is violently thrust forward and back in automobile accident, it can result in numerous upper body injuries, such as whiplash. It is important to monitor a recovering car accident victim’s condition because injuries that initially seem minor may take a sudden turn for the worse. This is especially true regarding concussions, which is another common after-effect of hitting up against a dashboard, windshield or the back of a seat.
Numerous symptoms that may arise in a concussed person, any of which signifies a possible dangerous situation meriting immediate medical attention. Knowing what to watch for can help patients and their caretakers obtain swift treatment, which, in some cases, could save a person’s life. Even a mild concussion requires a week or more of rest and recuperation, during which time new symptoms may develop to cause additional concern.
Pay close attention to the size of a concussion patient’s pupils
One of the things a medical doctor or paramedic will want to observe in a concussion patient is the size of the person’s pupils. Pupils that are larger than normal or are unequal in size often signify an underlying, more serious brain injury. In addition, other red flag issues associated with concussion, include a slanted smile, imbalance when standing or walking, confusion, persistent or worsening headache and lethargy or difficulty arousing a patient from sleep.
When a driver’s negligence has caused a collision that resulted in concussion
If another driver was distracted at the wheel or intoxicated when a collision occurred, he or she may be held accountable for the economic, emotional or physical damages that affected a passenger in the car or someone in another vehicle, or a pedestrian. To seek accountability, a recovering victim would file a personal injury claim in a California civil court. Medical records provide documentation regarding a plaintiff’s condition that helps substantiate his or her injury claim.