Most people associate concussions with violent sports injuries or major collisions. Yet, thousands of car crash victims experience concussions in what seem like minor accidents every year. Even at speeds under 25 miles per hour, the sudden force of impact can cause the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, resulting in a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Unfortunately, these injuries often go unnoticed at the scene and even during initial medical evaluations. When left untreated, a concussion can lead to lasting physical, emotional, and cognitive problems that disrupt daily life. Understanding why concussions are overlooked after low-speed accidents is essential for both victims and their families.
Why Concussions Are Common in “Minor” Accidents
A concussion occurs when the brain shifts or bounces against the inside of the skull due to a sudden jolt. This can happen even if there is no direct head impact. In car crashes, the brain experiences a violent acceleration and deceleration as the body moves forward and backward during impact.
Even minor rear-end collisions can generate enough force to cause this movement. The victim might walk away without visible injuries, assuming they are fine. However, the damage inside the skull has already occurred.
Some of the most common scenarios that cause concussions in low-speed crashes include:
- Rear-end impacts that cause rapid whiplash
- Sudden braking that throws the head forward and back
- Airbag deployment that causes a secondary head strike
- Side impacts where the head hits the window or headrest
These incidents may seem minor on the outside, but the brain is incredibly sensitive to sudden motion.
Why Concussions Go Undiagnosed After a Crash
The main reason concussions often go undiagnosed is that symptoms are subtle or delayed. Unlike broken bones or lacerations, brain injuries do not always show immediate, visible signs.
Several factors contribute to missed diagnoses:
- Delayed Onset of Symptoms
Many concussion symptoms develop hours or even days after the crash. Victims may feel fine at the scene, only to wake up later with headaches, dizziness, or confusion. - Adrenaline Masking the Pain
During a crash, the body floods with adrenaline and endorphins. These natural chemicals dull pain and can hide early symptoms like nausea or fatigue. - Overlapping Injuries
If the victim has neck or shoulder pain from whiplash, doctors may focus on those issues instead of checking for a concussion. - Lack of Diagnostic Testing
Standard emergency room exams and CT scans often appear normal in mild concussion cases. Without specialized neurological evaluation, the injury may not be detected. - Patients Minimizing Symptoms
Many crash victims believe they are simply shaken up. They may skip follow-up visits or fail to mention cognitive changes to their doctor.
The result is a growing number of people who unknowingly live with undiagnosed brain injuries after car crashes that seemed minor.
Subtle Symptoms Victims Should Watch For
Recognizing the signs of a concussion is critical. Even a mild concussion can have long-term effects if ignored. Some symptoms appear immediately, while others take time to develop.
Physical Symptoms:
- Persistent headaches or pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
Cognitive Symptoms:
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering details
- Feeling foggy or disoriented
- Slower reaction times or confusion
- Trouble finding words
Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Anxiety or depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue or loss of motivation
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after a crash should seek immediate medical attention, even if the collision seemed minor.
The Medical Challenges of Detecting Mild TBIs
Concussions are considered mild traumatic brain injuries, but “mild” refers to the initial trauma. The challenge is that conventional imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs often fail to show evidence of a concussion.
Diagnosis usually depends on:
- A detailed neurological examination
- Patient-reported symptoms
- Cognitive testing and balance assessments
- In some cases, advanced imaging like diffusion tensor MRI
Because these tests are not routinely performed in emergency departments, many patients are discharged without realizing they have a brain injury.
The Legal Impact of an Undiagnosed Concussion
In car accident cases, undiagnosed concussions can create major legal and financial complications. Insurance companies may argue that because there was no early diagnosis, the injury was not caused by the accident.
Proving a delayed concussion requires careful documentation and expert medical opinions. Car crash attorneys in Baltimore often build these cases by showing:
- Medical records that establish the crash and early symptoms
- Testimony from neurologists or neuropsychologists
- Evidence of life changes such as missed work, reduced focus, or emotional instability
- Family or coworker statements describing behavioral changes after the crash
Even without a visible injury, the law recognizes concussions as serious harm. Victims can recover compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering if the evidence shows the injury was related to the collision.
Why Immediate Medical Attention Matters
After any car accident, even a seemingly minor one, getting checked by a medical professional is essential. Victims should:
- Visit an urgent care or emergency room immediately after the crash.
- Request a neurological evaluation if they hit their head or experienced whiplash.
- Follow up with a doctor within a few days to report any new or worsening symptoms.
- Keep a daily symptom journal to track headaches, fatigue, or memory issues.
Prompt diagnosis not only improves recovery but also strengthens any future injury claim. Delayed medical attention gives insurers an excuse to deny coverage.
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Concussions
When left untreated, concussions can lead to persistent post-concussion syndrome, which causes months or even years of symptoms. Victims may experience chronic headaches, memory problems, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping.
Repeated or untreated concussions can also increase the risk of long-term neurological disorders, including depression and cognitive decline. Early detection and rest are the best ways to prevent these complications.
Protecting Yourself After a “Minor” Crash
Even a small fender bender can cause significant trauma. Drivers should take every collision seriously and prioritize their health over convenience. Steps to take include:
- Always report the accident and get a police report.
- See a doctor within 24 hours, even if you feel fine.
- Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by a physician.
- Monitor your physical and emotional state closely.
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer if symptoms persist or medical bills mount.
Concussions are among the most misunderstood injuries from car crashes. The absence of visible wounds often leads victims and doctors to underestimate their severity. Yet, even a mild concussion can alter a person’s life if it goes untreated.
By recognizing symptoms early, seeking proper medical care, and consulting a personal injury attorney, victims can protect both their health and their legal rights. No car crash should ever be considered too minor to take seriously, especially when it comes to the health of the brain.