Don’t Underestimate a Concussion: Long-Term Effects and Legal Options in Georgia

• February 3, 2025
• Attorney David Mann
• Personal Injury

A concussion, often dismissed as a “minor” head injury, can have significant and lasting consequences. In Georgia, understanding the potential long-term effects of a concussion is crucial for seeking appropriate medical care and exploring available legal options. It is important not to underestimate a concussion.  This blog post will discuss the long-term effects of concussions and victims’ legal options in Georgia.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affects brain function. It’s usually caused by a blow to the head, but it can also occur from a violent jolt or shaking of the head or body. This impact causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, leading to chemical changes in the brain and sometimes damaging brain cells.

Concussions are graded based on the severity of symptoms, but it’s important to understand that even a “mild” concussion can have serious consequences. Common symptoms include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Difficulty concentrating.

These symptoms can appear immediately or be delayed by hours or even days. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after any head injury, even if you feel “fine.”

Long-Term Effects of Concussions

While many people recover from a concussion within a few weeks, some experience persistent symptoms that can significantly impact their lives. These long-term effects can include:

• Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS): This condition involves persistent symptoms like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating that last for weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury.
• Cognitive Impairment: Concussions can lead to problems with memory, attention, problem-solving, and decision-making. These cognitive deficits can affect a person’s ability to work, study, and perform daily tasks.
• Emotional and Behavioral Changes: Depression, anxiety, irritability, and changes in personality are common after a concussion. These emotional and behavioral changes can strain relationships and impact overall well-being.
• Second Impact Syndrome (SIS): This rare but potentially fatal condition occurs when a person sustains a second concussion before fully recovering from the first. It can lead to rapid brain swelling and death.
• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): This degenerative brain disease is associated with repeated head trauma, including concussions. CTE can cause a range of symptoms, including memory loss, cognitive impairment, mood disorders, and behavioral problems.

The long-term effects of a concussion can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of a person’s life. It’s crucial to take concussions seriously and seek appropriate medical care to minimize the risk of long-term complications.

Importance of Proper Medical Care

Seeking prompt and appropriate medical care is essential after a concussion. A medical professional can diagnose the injury, assess its severity, and recommend a treatment plan. This plan may include:

• Rest: Physical and cognitive rest are crucial for recovery. This means avoiding strenuous activities, work, school, and even excessive screen time.
• Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medications may be used to manage symptoms like headaches and pain.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy may be recommended to address specific deficits, such as balance problems, cognitive impairment, or speech difficulties.
• Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with a medical professional are important to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Proper medical care not only aids in recovery but also provides crucial medical documentation that can be essential for legal purposes.

Legal Options for Concussion Victims in Georgia

In Georgia, if your concussion was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. This can include:

• Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and medication.
• Lost Wages: If your concussion has caused you to miss work, you may be able to recover lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the concussion.
• Future Medical Expenses: If you require ongoing medical care, you may be able to recover the estimated cost of future treatment.

Common situations where negligence may be a factor include:

• Car Accidents: If you were injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be able to file a claim.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: If you slipped and fell on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions, you may be able to file a claim.
• Sports Accidents: In some cases, concussions sustained during sports activities may be grounds for a legal claim, particularly if there was negligence on the part of coaches, trainers, or other responsible parties.

Georgia law has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, meaning you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

How a Brain Injury Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the legal process after a concussion can be complex. A skilled brain injury lawyer can help you:

• Investigate the Accident: An attorney can investigate the circumstances of your injury to determine if negligence was a factor.
• Gather Evidence: They can gather medical records, accident reports, and other evidence to support your claim.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement.
• File a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
• Understand Georgia Law: A Georgia-licensed attorney will be well-versed in the state’s specific laws and procedures related to personal injury and brain injury cases.

We hope that this blog post helped you understand the importance of not underestimating a concussion.

Contact The Mann Law Firm Today To Discuss Your Concussion Claim

Don’t underestimate a concussion. If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion due to someone else’s negligence in Georgia, seeking legal counsel is crucial. A brain injury lawyer at the Mann Law Firm can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. They can help ensure that you receive the necessary resources for recovery and future care, allowing you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Call us today at (478) 742-3381.