A Sudden Crash. A Lingering Headache. Is It a Concussion?
Concussion claims are often challenged by insurance companies – which is why having experienced legal representation is crucial.
If you were recently in a car accident and are experiencing headaches, dizziness, confusion, or nausea — you may have suffered a concussion, even if you didn’t lose consciousness. While many concussions go undiagnosed or underestimated, they are traumatic brain injuries that can have long-term effects on your health and legal rights.
At Apicella & Schlesinger, we’ve represented hundreds of Bronx residents who were injured in car crashes — many of whom had no idea how severe their concussion symptoms were until weeks later. If this sounds familiar, here’s what you need to know.
🧠 What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden jolt or impact to the head or body. In car accidents, even low-speed rear-end collisions can cause your brain to bounce inside your skull, damaging tissue and triggering a cascade of symptoms.
Common Concussion Symptoms:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision or light sensitivity
- Memory problems or brain fog
- Fatigue, mood swings, or irritability
Symptoms can show up immediately or days later, which is why seeking medical attention ASAP is critical — both for your health and your case.
📋 Can You File a Claim for a Concussion After a Car Accident?
Yes. If someone else’s negligence caused the crash that led to your concussion, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (ER, imaging, neurology, therapy)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term cognitive or psychological effects
But here’s the catch: concussion claims are often challenged by insurance companies who argue that your injury is “minor” or unrelated to the crash. That’s why having experienced legal representation is crucial.
⚖️ Why Concussion Cases Can Be Difficult to Prove
Unlike broken bones or open wounds, concussions don’t always show up clearly on X-rays or scans. This gives insurers a way to dispute your injury, especially if:
- You delayed going to the hospital
- Your medical records don’t clearly document symptoms
- You didn’t follow up with a neurologist or specialist
At Apicella & Schlesinger, our Bronx car accident lawyers know how to build a strong medical and legal case for concussion injuries — including working with neurologists, expert witnesses, and tracking your cognitive symptoms over time.
🕒 Don’t Wait — Time Limits Apply in New York
Under New York law, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, if your case involves a city vehicle or public agency, you may only have 90 days to file a notice of claim.
Waiting too long to act could jeopardize your right to recover compensation — especially with concussions, where early medical documentation is key.