Even a minor crash on New York roads can be stressful. When a negligent driver causes a rear-end collision or a side-swipe accident, it might leave you angry, and more worried about the damage to your vehicle and your insurance premium than any injuries. After all, it was just a little jolt, and you did not even see stars.
However, even if there is no outward sign of injury, that does not mean you are in the clear.
The danger? A TBI is still a risk in a “minor” crash
Many people might think a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is only a risk in the event of a severe accident, such as a crash at high speeds or a T-bone accident. That is not true. If someone’s body is shaken or jostled with enough force, there is a risk of the brain also being jostled and colliding with the skull, leading to a traumatic brain injury.
Think about the risk athletes face. They are on a playing field, yet a collision between players puts them at risk of a TBI, even if they are wearing a helmet. So, a collision between vehicles weighing thousands of pounds might appear “minor,” but it could still easily involve enough force to cause a TBI.
And even a “minor” TBI can be serious
Concussions may be a common injury, but you should not overlook any type of head injury. A concussion can still have significant impacts on your life, leaving you facing:
- Persistent headaches and nausea
- Feelings of depression or anxiety
- Drowsiness or difficulty sleeping
- Trouble speaking and thinking
Full recovery can take months, and it is rarely linear. You might not be able to work. It is possible you may not be able to look at the screens of your TV or even your phone while you heal. You may have to withdraw from doing the things you love, just so you can feel like yourself again.
Immediate medical care makes a major difference
After a car accident, whether it seems minor or major, you should not delay in seeking a medical evaluation. You may not notice or feel symptoms of a TBI right away, making it even more important to obtain care and catch a concussion or a more severe TBI early on. This evaluation also establishes a clear record of injuries caused by the accident, getting you started on the road to physical and financial recovery.