Brain scan of effects of Concussion

A new study by researchers at the University of Georgia shows concussion-like effects may continue to linger even after the symptoms disappear. These effects have the ability to disrupt a motorist while they are driving a vehicle. The author of the study, Julianne Schmidt, an associate professor in the UGA College of Education’s Department of Kinesiology, said that even though the study’s participants felt like they had recovered from their concussion, they were still likely to drive erratically while using a driving simulator, often similar to someone who was driving under the influence of alcohol. Under these conditions, a driver is much more likely to be involved in a car crash leading to Warwick car accident lawsuits.

What Did The Study Find?

Schmidt stated that the participants had less vehicle control while they were doing the driving simulation and swerved more within their lanes. This, she said, is a significant indicator of a motor vehicle accident risk. The study was recently published by the Journal of Neurotrauma and included 14 college-age participants; all of whom were within 48 hours of no longer feeling the effects of their concussion. This is the first study of its kind that actually examines the effects of a concussion on a person’s ability to drive. This study implies that driving should be restricted not just until symptoms clear, but even after that. The research team will focus next on looking more precisely at when these individuals’ driving abilities improve.

How Is A Concussion Caused?

x-ray of brainA concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull triggering chemical changes in the brain. Sometimes, it could also stretch or damage brain cells. Medical providers usually classify concussion as a “mild” brain injury because they are not usually life threatening. However, the effects of a concussion can be serious, even life-changing.

The Symptoms Of A Concussion Could Include:

  • Not thinking clearly, feeling slowed down, being unable to concentrate and not being able to remember new information.
  • Physical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, fuzzy or blurry vision, dizziness, sensitivity to light or noise, balance issues and lack of energy.
  • Emotional symptoms such as getting easily upset and angered, getting more nervous, anxious or depressed.
  • Sleeping more or less than usual or having a hard time falling asleep.

Contact an Experienced Warwick Car Accident Lawyer

Warwick Car Accident Lawyer meeting victim of driver with a ConcussionIf you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island, contact one of our experienced Warwick car accident lawyers located at 88F Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI 02888. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us at 1-401-490-6907 or toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.

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Paul d’Oliveira

Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.

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