Experienced Unconsciousness After a Serious Head Injury? Here’s What You Need to Know
Originally published Dec 3rd 2020. Last updated September 11th 2024
Unconsciousness occurs when someone suddenly becomes unable to respond to stimuli, appearing as though they are asleep. This state can last anywhere from a few seconds, such as when someone faints, to much longer periods requiring medical intervention.
If a person loses consciousness, their breathing or pulse may become faint, indicating an urgent need for medical attention. Experiencing unconsciousness after a car accident is often a sign of a serious brain injury, and it’s crucial to understand the step you should take next if it happens.
Signs You May Have Lost Consciousness in an Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident, you might not remember losing consciousness. However, signs that you may have briefly lost consciousness include feeling dazed, dizzy, or disoriented. Not all brain injuries are immediately obvious—symptoms can surface days or even weeks after the initial trauma.
Read about why e-bike accidents are on the rise.
What to Do If a Loved One Loses Consciousness Due to an Accident
If someone you care about has lost consciousness following an accident, taking immediate and thoughtful action can make a significant difference in their recovery. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention. Call 911 as soon as possible and let first responders assess and provide the necessary care. Head injuries are unpredictable, and immediate intervention can prevent further complications.
- Understand the Injury. Head injuries vary widely in severity, and recovery can look different for each individual. Some symptoms might appear immediately, while others can develop over time. Changes in mood, personality, and cognitive functions are not uncommon and may be long-lasting.
- Explore Treatment Options. Stay informed about the latest medical advancements and treatment options for brain injuries. Discuss these findings with your doctor to ensure you are aware of all available avenues for recovery.
- Document Everything. Keep a detailed record of medical visits, symptoms, and any changes in behavior or abilities. This documentation can be crucial in both medical and legal contexts, providing a clear timeline of the injury’s impact.
- Consult a Lawyer. Traumatic brain injuries often involve complex legal situations, especially when the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help ensure your loved one’s rights are protected, and the responsible parties are held accountable.
Read more about what to do immediately after an accident and steps you can take to protect your loved one.
Can You Sustain a Brain Injury Without Losing Consciousness?
Yes, you can sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) even without losing consciousness. The sudden movement of the brain inside the skull during a collision—often when the head snaps back and forth—can cause significant damage even if the head does not make direct contact with an object.
Read more about catastrophic injuries from trucking accidents and how they can cause severe TBIs.
Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can have wide-ranging and long-lasting effects, impacting a person’s physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. Some common symptoms include:
- Severe headaches
- Dizziness and balance problems
- Chronic fatigue
- Irritability and mood swings
- Depression and anxiety
- Memory and concentration issues
- Nausea and vomiting
In some cases, these symptoms can persist for months, years, or even a lifetime, leading to a significant reduction in quality of life. There is also an increased risk of developing more severe conditions, such as degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, following a traumatic brain injury.
Legal Guidance and Next Steps
If you or someone you love has experienced a traumatic brain injury due to an accident, navigating the legal landscape can be overwhelming. At Fisher Stark, P.A., we understand the complexities involved in TBI cases and are here to help you every step of the way.
Here’s what you can expect when you consult with us:
- Evaluation of Your Case. We’ll thoroughly review the circumstances of your injury and provide a clear, honest assessment of your legal options.
- Guidance on Evidence Collection. Collecting medical records, witness statements, and accident reports is crucial. We’ll help you understand what evidence is necessary to build a strong case.
- Personalized Support. Our team is dedicated to supporting TBI victims and their families, advocating for the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care.
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Fisher Stark, P.A. today at 828-505-4300 to schedule a free consultation, or visit our contact page for more information.
We will work hard to get you the justice & fair compensation you deserve. Fisher Stark, P.A. is a highly respected personal injury law firm in Asheville, NC. We provide experienced legal help for clients in Asheville, NC, and all the communities in Western North Carolina. Collectively, our legal team – Perry Fisher and Brad Stark – have more than 50 years of trial practice and have participated in more than 1,000+ injury cases. Call 828-505-4300 for a free consultation.