Knowing what to do in such a situation can be confusing. Even knowing what your rights are as an accident victim in California might not be clear. That’s why it’s critical that you talk to a Walnut Creek motorcycle accident lawyer at our law firm as soon as possible about your legal options.
Signs of a concussion or brain injury
It’s easy to associate brain injuries with being “knocked out” and losing consciousness, but the reality is that many brain injuries are more subtle. Even if you got up and walked away after falling off your motorcycle, you’re not necessarily out of the woods. Some of the key warning signs of a concussion are:
- Persistent headaches
- Blurry or double vision
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Loss of smell or taste
- Trouble sleeping
- Fatigue
- Difficulty reading or concentrating
- Loss of memory
- Dizziness or loss of balance
Remember that some of these symptoms may have delayed onset; that is, they won’t appear for some time after the crash. Moreover, if your adrenaline is high, you may not even notice certain symptoms until they get worse. That’s why you absolutely need to see a doctor as soon as possible after any motorcycle accident, even if you feel fine. Getting checked out by a medical professional is the best option for your health—and helps to protect your legal rights.
Types of head injuries
Motorcycle accidents cause many different types of head and brain injuries. There’s a reason California has a universal helmet law: the risk of damage to the head when riding a motorcycle is substantial. But helmets don’t prevent all head injuries. Depending on the speed of the crash, the other vehicle involved, and other factors, you may have sustained a:
- Concussion (blow to the head)
- Contusion (bruise to the brain that often causes swelling)
- Hematoma (bleeding in the brain)
- Penetrating head injury (object pierces the skull and injures brain)
Head injuries can be extremely dangerous. Severe brain injuries may cause loss of consciousness and require immediate medical care. But even if you have a concussion, a “mild” traumatic brain injury, it’s important to take it seriously. No brain injury is truly minor, and even a low-speed crash can cause permanent damage. Moreover, you’re at risk of second impact syndrome, a potentially fatal condition, if you sustain another concussion while a previous concussion is still healing.
Any brain injury can cause serious harm, physically, emotionally, psychologically and financially. You may be looking at lifelong medical treatment or impairment to your ability to work. You need an experienced lawyer to advocate for the full amount of compensation for your head injury. That’s why we want to meet with you right away.
How our law firm can help you
The amount of paperwork and red tape you will likely have to deal with after your motorcycle head injury can be staggering. And if you don’t fill these forms out correctly or submit them on time, you could miss out on your only opportunity for justice.
We can handle all the paperwork and deal directly with insurance companies while you focus on what really matters: your recovery. And if insurance companies refuse to cooperate, we’re prepared to take them to court to demand the compensation you rightfully deserve.
That’s what sets us apart from many other law firms in the Bay Area – our drive and dedication to succeed. We will not quit until justice is served. Find out how we can help you. Contact our law firm and schedule your free case evaluation today.