If you're in a minor motorcycle accident, you may think that your injuries aren't bad enough to seek medical attention. But that can be the worst thing you can do, especially if you didn't wear a helmet at the time. Even minor injuries, such as a tiny bump on the head, can lead to dangerous health problems like a concussion. In addition, you may lose your chance to seek compensation for your injuries in the future. Here's why you shouldn't skip your medical attention after a minor motorcycle accident.
What's a Concussion and Is It Life-Threatening?
No matter how small or slight they may appear, head injuries have the potential to cause concussions. A concussion is an injury to the brain that causes many symptoms, including dizziness, headaches and nausea. In severe cases, a concussion can lead to a brain aneurysm and death if it goes untreated.
You may think that you're in the clear if you don't experience the symptoms of a concussion right after your accident. But you may be wrong. The symptoms of a concussion can occur the day after your accident, or they can show up three weeks after your accident. These delayed symptoms are caused by post-concussion syndrome.
If you do develop delayed symptoms, you may experience:
- Problems standing up or walking, as well as poor muscle coordination
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Vision problems
- Vomiting
You also develop unexplained headaches, intense nausea, and problems focusing or thinking. If you receive a head injury after falling, skidding or colliding with the other driver's car or the ground, seek medical attention right away.
After you see the doctor, contact a motorcycle accident attorney and explain your case. Also, don't be afraid to tell the attorney that you didn't have your helmet on during the accident.
Will You Lose Your Case Because You Didn't Wear a Helmet?
Even if you didn't wear your motorcycle helmet during your accident, your attorney may still secure compensation for your injuries. Helmets can prevent up to 67 percent of brain injuries in motorcyclists each year. However, Florida and many other states don't require you to wear your helmet if you're over 21 years of age.
If you live in a state that allows adults over age 21 to go helmet free, you may still qualify for an insurance settlement. However, it's in your best interest to discuss the helmet laws in your state with your motorcycle lawyer.
What Should You Do While the Attorney Develops Your Case?
Your attorney may suggest that you continue seeking medical care throughout your case. Your attorney needs to make sure that you don't have head problems that can potentially develop after your case ends. Remember, concussions can take several weeks to show symptoms.
In addition, your medical doctors may locate other, unseen injuries you received from the accident. These hidden injuries may include a damaged spleen, punctured kidney, or a fractured hip or knee. If you have hidden injuries in your body, look for these signs listed below:
- Pain in your back or sides, which may indicate problems in your kidneys
- Discomfort in your hips and knees, which may indicate injuries in the bones of these body locations
- Pain in your back and neck, which may indicate fractures in the bones of the neck and spine
Once your doctors document the injuries, your attorney can add the information to your case file.
If you choose to continue riding your motorcycle, be aware of the laws in your state regarding helmets and other protective body gear. Your attorney can educate you on the statistics and facts about motorcycle accidents as well. You can contact a motorcycle accident attorney for a private consultation to learn more.
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