The Average Settlement for Concussion Car Accident
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that is very common in car accidents because so often brakes are applied to slow the vehicle down before crashing into another vehicle. When this happens, the driver or passengers can get thrown forward violently in a whiplash motion, which causes the brain to rapidly accelerate and slam into the skull. An experienced car accident lawyer knows how to fight for a fair settlement for a car accident involving concussion. If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion as a result of a car accident, you may be wondering about the average settlement for concussion car accident. Read on to learn about settlements for concussions.
Concussion signs and symptoms
Evan a supposed “mild” concussion can come with some pretty unsettling symptoms for a few weeks, and for some, even longer. Post-concussion syndrome may be diagnosed if symptoms of concussion last more than three to four weeks. It’s important to understand that sometimes concussion symptoms take a few days to appear.
According to the CDC, concussions can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Headache or a feeling of “pressure” in the head
- Ringing in ears
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- New sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish, fatigued, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Confusion, or concentration or memory problems
- Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”
Bystanders may observe that the injured person:
- Can’t remember things that happened before or after the accident
- Seems dazed or stunned
- Is forgetful
- Starts moving clumsily
- Answers questions slowly
- Loses consciousness (even momentarily)
- Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
Always seek an immediate medical evaluation
Anyone who suffers a concussion or who may have suffered a concussion should seek an immediate medical evaluation from their primary care doctor or the emergency room. If symptoms are present right away, going to the hospital where a CT scan and neurocognitive testing can be performed may be the best course of action. Doctors can also rule out rare but possible complications that can lead to hematoma – a buildup or pooling of blood in the head just outside the brain.
What’s the Average Settlement for Concussion Car Accident?
If your concussion was caused by the negligence of another driver, you can bring a personal injury suit for the purpose of seeking compensation for your losses and injuries. Your personal injury lawyer will gather evidence about the accident and medical information such as diagnostic tests, bills, and prescriptions to prove that you have suffered from a concussion. They may send you to a specialist who can better assess your injury or work with expert witnesses who can show how the accident caused your concussion and how it has impacted your life.
Each car accident settlement is unique and as a result, settlement amounts can vary widely. Your car accident attorney will assess the value of your claim based on all your economic and non-economic damages and recent settlements amount for similar cases. That said, the average value of a personal injury lawsuit involving a concussion is between $20,000 to $80,000. Post concussion syndrome car accident settlements may come with a higher settlement value of $125,000 or more.
Seek the help of a car accident lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
