Many California highways have more than 10 lanes, which creates a heavy amount of traffic and places travelers at risk for collision. Of course, travelers can expect drivers to adhere to traffic laws. Sadly, there are many reckless, distracted and intoxicated drivers who increase these risks. Someone else’s negligence might cause a car accident, resulting in a brain injury or other life-threatening condition. It’s important to monitor a recovering victim’s condition and to seek medical attention if concerning symptoms arise.
Confusion is a symptom of brain injury
In the aftermath of a car accident, it’s understandable to be frightened, upset and even traumatized. Victims might also feel confused about what happened, which may or may not be normal. If bouts of confusion occur, it could also be a symptom of traumatic brain injury, which is why it’s best to consult with a physician.
Brain trauma often causes nausea or vomiting
If you have been in a car accident and hours or days later feel nauseous or vomit, it is a potentially urgent situation because this is a common symptom that accompanies brain injuries. Even if you underwent a brain scan soon after the incident, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you did not suffer brain trauma. Tiny skull fractures or fluid leaks are not always visible on an initial scan. If nausea or vomiting occur, it’s important to seek medical attention.
A headache might suggest a concussion or worse
The force of impact in a California motor vehicle collision can cause pain and discomfort for weeks, especially if a person suffers whiplash or a broken bone. If a head hits against a hard surface inside the vehicle, a person might experience a headache that suggests an underlying injury, such as a concussion or a more severe brain injury. California law allows recovering victims to seek restitution when another driver’s negligence was a causal factor in a collision that resulted in a brain injury or other serious harm.