Feb 21st, 2025
Paulozzi Joseph

Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Car Accident Concussions

A crash on I-71 in Cleveland, a busy intersection in Columbus, or a two-lane road outside Toledo can leave behind more than broken glass and dented metal. One of the most overlooked injuries after a car accident is a concussion, a traumatic brain injury that can disrupt every part of your life. Because concussions often do not appear on CT scans or X-rays, many Ohio accident victims leave the emergency room without a diagnosis. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, we help clients across Ohio recognize these warning signs, secure medical treatment, and pursue maximum compensation.

What Is a Concussion and Why Does It Matter?

A concussion occurs when the brain is violently shaken inside the skull, often due to the sudden impact of a collision. Unlike a broken bone, a concussion affects how your brain functions and its effects may linger for weeks, months, or even years. Untreated concussions can lead to memory problems, mood swings, headaches, and long-term neurological complications.

Recognizing symptoms early not only protects your health but also strengthens any Ohio accident lawsuit you may file.

Common Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident

1. Persistent Headaches and Dizziness

The most common red flag is a headache that doesn’t go away. Victims may also feel dizzy, lightheaded, or unsteady on their feet. Many clients initially dismissed headaches as stress after the crash, only to later learn they had suffered a brain injury.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

Symptoms like nausea and vomiting may appear hours or even days after the accident. These delayed reactions often indicate a concussion and require immediate medical care.

3. Vision Problems

Concussions can cause blurred vision, double vision, or sensitivity to light. Some victims report difficulty reading, focusing on screens, or even seeing bright headlights at night.

4. Confusion and Memory Loss

Cognitive difficulties such as trouble concentrating, forgetting details, or feeling disoriented are common. One Cleveland client we represented couldn’t remember the crash itself, which became powerful evidence in proving the severity of their injury.

5. Emotional and Behavioral Changes

Irritability, anxiety, and depression often develop after a concussion. These changes can affect relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.

Ohio Law and Your Right to Compensation

Under O.R.C. § 2305.10, car accident victims in Ohio generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to seek damages.

Ohio also follows the modified comparative negligence rule. If you are less than 51% at fault, you may still recover damages, though your award will be reduced by your share of responsibility. For example, if you were 20% at fault in a Dayton crash with $100,000 in damages, you may still recover $80,000.

This makes it vital to work with an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer who can document your symptoms, prove liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How Our Attorneys Build Strong Concussion Claims

At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni, we know how difficult it can be to prove an “invisible injury.” Our legal team strengthens your claim through:

  • Collecting medical records from neurologists, therapists, and rehabilitation specialists
  • Gathering testimony from family and coworkers about changes in behavior or memory
  • Using accident reconstruction experts to prove how the crash caused the injury
  • Negotiating aggressively with insurers who try to minimize concussion claims

By painting a complete picture of how the concussion impacts your life, we push insurers and juries to recognize its true cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Concussions After Car Accidents in Ohio

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Ohio?

Most victims have two years under O.R.C. § 2305.10, though exceptions may apply.

What damages can I recover for a concussion injury?

Compensation may include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Do I need a lawyer if my concussion seems mild?

Yes. Concussions can worsen over time, and insurance companies often downplay them. A lawyer ensures your claim accounts for both present and future care.

Should I accept the first settlement offer?

No. Early offers are usually designed to save the insurer money, not cover your full recovery. Consult an attorney before signing anything.

What if I was partially at fault for the crash?

You may still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Why Choose Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers?

When dealing with the invisible yet life-changing effects of a concussion, choosing the right firm makes all the difference. Victims across Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo, Akron, Dayton, Cincinnati, and Youngstown trust us because we offer:

  • Decades of combined personal injury experience
  • Millions recovered for Ohio accident victims
  • Personalized attention and compassionate advocacy
  • Offices across major Ohio cities
  • No fees unless we win

Protecting Concussion Victims Across Ohio

Concussions may not leave visible scars, but their impact can last a lifetime. Victims often face medical appointments, lost income, emotional struggles, and uncertainty about their future. Insurance companies are quick to minimize concussions because they are hard to prove on a scan, leaving many victims undercompensated. Without strong representation, you may walk away with far less than you need to rebuild your life. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, we refuse to let that happen. Our Cleveland car accident lawyers fight to ensure every hardship, whether physical, emotional, or financial, is fully recognized in your claim. We proudly serve clients across Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo, Akron, Dayton, Cincinnati, Youngstown, and throughout Ohio. Call 800-LAW-OHIO (800-529-6446) or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.

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