Car accidents are traumatic events that can leave physical and emotional scars. While some injuries, such as cuts or fractures, are immediately apparent, others may take hours or even days to manifest. One often-overlooked symptom is a headache. Though it might seem minor, a headache after a car accident can be a warning sign of a serious underlying condition. In this blog, we’ll explore the potential causes of post-accident headaches, their implications, and the legal options available to accident victims in Mississippi.
What Are Common Causes of Post-Accident Headaches?
Headaches after a car accident can arise from various factors, some of which may signal significant medical concerns. Here are the most common causes:
- Concussions or post-concussion syndrome. A car crash concussion occurs when the brain is jolted during a collision and can lead to persistent post-concussive symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and trouble with concentration and memory. A concussion after a car accident usually appears within the first 7 to 10 days after an injury and typically lasts longer than three months.
- Whiplash. The rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck during a crash can strain the muscles and ligaments, leading to headaches originating from the base of the skull. The pain after a car accident usually starts within days of the injury, but the symptoms are shared with other injuries, so it might not be clear what your pain is related to.
- Stress and psychological trauma. The stress of being in an accident can trigger tension headaches or migraines, even if no physical injury is detected. Sometimes referred to as an acute stress reaction, it may not be noticeable for two to 30 days after an accident.
- Post-traumatic headache (PTH). A PTH occurs following a head or neck impact, typically within a week of an injury. It causes similar symptoms, such as a concussion or whiplash, including fatigue, irritability, and anxiety.
These causes highlight the importance of taking headaches after a car accident seriously, as they could signal underlying injuries that require prompt medical attention.
What Are Signs Your Headaches After a Car Accident May Indicate a Serious Problem?
Not all headaches are created equal. Knowing when to seek medical attention can make a critical difference in your recovery. Look for these warning signs:
- Worsening pain after a car accident—if the headache intensifies over time, it could indicate internal bleeding or a brain injury;
- Accompanying symptoms—nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and confusion are red flags;
- Delayed onset—a headache that appears days after the accident may still point to a significant issue; and
- Difficulty with concentration or memory—cognitive problems often accompany serious brain injuries.
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
What Should I Do If I Experience a Headache After a Car Accident?
Taking prompt action after noticing symptoms can protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Don’t wait to see if the headache goes away on its own. A medical professional can evaluate you for potential conditions like a concussion, whiplash, or even internal injuries that may not show obvious symptoms at first.
- Document your symptoms. Write down details about your pain after an accident, such as when your headaches occur, how long they last, and what seems to trigger or worsen them. This information will help medical professionals provide the best care and could be evidence if your injuries lead to legal action.
- Report the accident. File a police report and inform your insurance company about the incident, ensuring all details are accurately documented.
- Consult a car accident attorney. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
By taking these steps, you can safeguard your well-being and determine if you can seek compensation for your accident.
Types of Damages in Mississippi Personal Injury Lawsuits
When pursuing a personal injury claim in Mississippi, understanding the types of damages available is vital to ensuring appropriate compensation. Below are the key categories:
- Economic damages—measurable financial losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, often forming the backbone of a claim;
- Noneconomic damages—address subjective losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life; and
- Punitive damages—levied in severe cases to punish particularly egregious behavior and deter future misconduct.
By understanding these distinctions, plaintiffs and attorneys can better tailor their strategies for seeking full compensation.
Negligence and Liability in Mississippi Law
The legal framework governing negligence in Mississippi balances the rights of injured parties with fairness to defendants. Key aspects of these principles are:
- Comparative negligence. This rule allows plaintiffs to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, with awards reduced by their degree of responsibility.
- Joint and several liability. Defendants are only liable for the portion of damages reflecting their fault unless they acted together in committing a tort.
- Privity not required. Individuals can bring claims for negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty without a direct contractual relationship.
Mississippi’s negligence laws reflect a commitment to ensuring fair outcomes while holding negligent parties accountable.
Statute of Limitations
Time limits are critical in personal injury lawsuits, as missing a filing deadline can completely bar recovery. Mississippi’s statute of limitations outlines specific timelines based on the type of claim:
- Personal injury claims. Plaintiffs generally have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit.
- Medical malpractice claims. These must be filed within two years of the date the malpractice occurred or was recently discovered.
- Wrongful death actions. Wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within three years of the decedent’s death or two years if based on medical malpractice.
Understanding these statutes is important for effectively navigating personal injury claims in Mississippi. Legal professionals meticulously evaluate the specifics of each case to support compliance with state laws and to advocate effectively for their client’s rights.
Contact Smith & Holder, PLLC Today
The Smith & Holder, PLLC team understands they are taking on a great responsibility when agreeing to help you with your case. Since founding their firm, they have won the Expertise.com award for Best Car Accident Lawyers in Gulfport for 2021, and Chris is listed as a Rising Star on SuperLawyers.com. Don’t let a headache—or any other injury—go unnoticed after a car accident. Contact Smith & Holder, PLLC, today to schedule your free consultation and begin your path to recovery.
Resources
- Mayo Clinic, link
- Verywell Health, link
- Miss. Code § 11-1-65, link
- Miss. Code § 11-7-15, link
- Miss. Code § 85-5-7, link
- Miss. Code § 11-7-20, link
- Miss. Code § 15-1-49, link
- Miss. Code § 15-1-36, link
- Miss. Code § 11-7-13, link
