Many people involved in Portland car accidents suffer concussions, even in what seem to be minor collisions. Unfortunately, concussion symptoms do not always immediately manifest themselves. Failing to seek medical attention could have devastating consequences for the victim.
Regardless of whether you have been injured in a fender bender on I-5, the Morrison Bridge, or a local surface street in Multnomah County, it is critical that you are aware of the symptoms and tell-tale signs associated with a concussion so you can take proper steps to protect yourself, a close friend, or family member. This article discusses common concussion symptoms, the need for documentation, and how to safeguard your right to file a claim.
Why Car Accidents Are a Leading Cause of Concussions
In Portland, Oregon, and across the nation, car accidents are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). In the Portland area, high-traffic corridors such as I-5, I-84, and US-26 experience frequent rear-end collisions, especially during rainy periods and rush hour.
Even when motor vehicles are involved in slow-speed crashes, they can lead to victims suffering concussions. During a collision, the brain impacts the skull due to the vehicle’s sudden deceleration.
Some of the types of crashes that are most likely to cause concussions include:
- Rear-end collisions (due to whiplash)
- Side impact
- Rollover accidents
Recognizing Concussion Symptoms — Immediate and Delayed
Recognizing immediate and delayed concussion symptoms is vital, as not seeking treatment can dramatically increase the risk of long-term neurological damage. In some instances, concussion symptoms can appear almost immediately following the accident but may be masked by adrenaline at the crash scene.
Severe, immediate, and delayed concussion symptoms include:
- Loss of consciousness, even if it is for a brief moment
- Disorientation, confusion, and difficulty answering basic questions
- Headache that worsens over time
- Nausea or vomiting
Other common symptoms that could indicate a concussion include blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light and noise, and dizziness or balance problems. Mood changes are also frequently reported, which can include anxiety, depression, and irritability.
Why Delayed Symptoms Matter Legally
Insurance companies often try to argue that if a victim did not report their symptoms at the scene, their injuries were not caused by the accident. As with any motor vehicle accident, it is always best to seek medical care within 72 hours to ensure that you have legal documentation that substantiates your case.
When to Go to the Emergency Room After a Head Injury
Due to the long-term effects that can stem from a concussion, it is important to know when to go to the emergency room after a head injury. Red flag symptoms that require immediate ER attention include:
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures
- Worsening headache
- Loss of consciousness lasting longer than 30 seconds
- Inability to recognize people or places
- Extreme drowsiness
Portland’s Legacy Emanuel Level I Trauma Center is well-equipped to treat head injuries. Both OHSU and Providence Portland Medical Center are recognized for providing comprehensive medical care. Individuals with a suspected concussion can receive prompt evaluation, diagnostic testing, and appropriate treatment at either facility.
If a child is displaying any of the symptoms listed above, such as confusion, behavioral changes, or irritability, they should be taken to the ER immediately.
How Concussions Affect Your Personal Injury Claim
Having thorough medical documentation is the foundation of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) claim. Although it can be tempting to go to urgent care, it is best to be evaluated by a physician at a hospital. A hospital such as Legacy Emanuel or OHSU has the proper diagnostic tools to determine your condition. CT scans are used to rule out bleeding, while an MRI can detect structural damage to the brain.
Oregon PIP coverage (ORS 742.520) provides accident victims up to $15,000 in coverage for initial medical expenses regardless of who is at fault. Because concussions can lead to long-term cognitive issues and personality changes, you may also be eligible to recover non-economic damages. Non-economic damages, such as emotional distress, can significantly increase the value of your claim. Oregon does not cap non-economic damages, and TBI cases often result in significant pain-and-suffering awards.
Proving the Concussion Was Caused by the Accident and Long-Term Effects
Insurance companies have legal teams whose sole purpose is to look for ways to minimize or deny claims. In cases involving delayed symptoms, the insurer may try to argue that your injury was not caused by the accident.
The most effective legal strategy is to seek help from a Portland head injury lawyer who can establish the “mechanism of injury” and how the crash caused the head trauma. Your medical records must also show a clear timeline of the crash, your symptoms, and diagnosis. It is also critical that you avoid any gaps in treatment. Insurance adjusters frequently try to exploit lapses to argue that your medical issues stem from a pre-existing condition and not the crash.
Oregon law allows injured individuals to recover compensation when an accident worsens a pre-existing condition under the “eggshell plaintiff” doctrine.
Some of the areas that a well-trained Portland head injury attorney can focus on in your claim include the impact on your daily life, inability to work, depression, and cognitive decline.
Early treatment matters to protect your well-being and to document the full extent of damages in your personal injury claim.
