A headache after a car accident can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. While some headaches are mild and go away with rest, others can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
If you are experiencing persistent or worsening headaches, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Car accident-related headaches can indicate underlying injuries that may not be obvious right away. Insurance companies often downplay these symptoms, urging victims to settle before they fully understand the extent of their injuries.
If you are struggling with prolonged headaches after a crash, a Charlotte traumatic brain injury lawyer can help ensure you receive proper medical care and compensation for your suffering.
Common Causes of Post-Accident Headaches
Not all headaches after a car accident are the same. Depending on the type and severity of the impact, you may experience different kinds of headaches, each with unique causes and risks.
- Whiplash headaches: The rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck can strain muscles, damage nerves, and cause headaches that last for days or even weeks.
- Concussion headaches: A concussion occurs when the brain is jolted inside the skull, leading to headaches, dizziness, nausea, and cognitive issues. Even minor head trauma can result in persistent headaches that require medical evaluation.
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Severe headaches that do not improve over time may indicate a more serious brain injury. TBIs can lead to long-term complications, including memory problems, mood changes, and chronic pain.
- Tension headaches: Stress, trauma, and muscle tension after an accident can contribute to ongoing headaches. These are often accompanied by tightness in the neck and shoulders.
- Occipital neuralgia: This condition results from nerve damage in the back of the head, causing sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the neck to the skull.
If your post-car-accident headache persists beyond a few days, worsens over time, or is accompanied by symptoms like blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, speak with a Charlotte car accident lawyer at DeMayo Law Offices. Prolonged symptoms could indicate serious injuries that require long-term medical care.
For a free legal consultation, call (877) 333-1000
When to Seek Medical Attention
It can be tempting to brush off a post-accident headache as a minor issue, but delaying medical care can have serious consequences. Headaches that linger for weeks or worsen over time may signal more than just a mild injury. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Severe or persistent headaches that do not improve with over-the-counter medication.
- Dizziness, confusion, or difficulty concentrating, which may indicate a concussion or TBI.
- Vision problems, such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, or double vision.
- Nausea or vomiting, especially if it occurs hours or days after the accident.
- Tingling or numbness in the arms or legs, which could indicate nerve damage.
- Speech difficulties or memory problems which may be linked to a serious brain injury.
Insurance companies often dismiss lingering headaches as minor complaints to avoid paying for long-term care. This is why it’s essential to document your symptoms, follow up with doctors, and consult a Charlotte personal injury lawyer if the insurance company tries to minimize your claim.
How Insurance Companies Downplay Head Injury Claims
One of the biggest mistakes accident victims make is assuming the insurance company will fairly compensate them for their medical expenses and pain. Unfortunately, insurance adjusters are trained to reduce payouts—and post-accident headaches are one of the easiest symptoms for them to dismiss.
Common tactics they use include:
- Arguing that your headache is unrelated to the accident—even if you never had similar symptoms before.
- Pressuring you to settle quickly, before the full extent of your injuries is known.
- Claiming your symptoms are exaggerated or that they should have resolved by now.
- Blaming pre-existing conditions, such as migraines, to avoid covering your medical costs.
If you’re dealing with an insurance company that refuses to take your injuries seriously, you don’t have to face them alone. DeMayo Law Offices has recovered over $1 billion for accident victims, and we know how to fight back against unfair settlement offers.
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Compensation for Headaches After a Car Accident
If you have ongoing headaches after a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses – Emergency room visits, diagnostic tests, doctor’s appointments, and medications.
- Lost wages – If your headaches prevent you from working, your settlement should cover your lost income.
- Pain and suffering – Chronic headaches can significantly impact your quality of life, leading to emotional distress and reduced daily function.
Insurance companies do not willingly offer full compensation unless they are held accountable. If you are experiencing prolonged headaches after an accident, a Charlotte personal injury lawyer at DeMayo Law Offices can help you demand the settlement you deserve.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident
It’s normal to experience some level of headache after a car accident, but persistent, severe, or worsening headaches are not normal and should not be ignored. If your symptoms linger for weeks or interfere with your daily life, you may have a serious injury that requires medical attention.
Don’t let the insurance company pressure you into settling before you understand the full extent of your injuries. DeMayo Law Offices puts people over profits, and we are here to help you fight for fair compensation. If you’re suffering from ongoing headaches after a car accident, call DeMayo Law Offices today to discuss your legal options.
Call or text (877) 333-1000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
