Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Headache After a Car Accident

Story by Joel Berly
January 2, 2025

After a car accident, a headache might feel like a minor issue, but it could signal something serious, like a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI). These hidden injuries often worsen without medical attention. Understanding the potential causes and seeking medical attention can protect your health and legal rights. 

Learn what symptoms to watch for and how a skilled car accident lawyer can help you seek full compensation for your injuries.

What Causes Headaches After a Car Accident?

Headaches might seem like a minor inconvenience after an auto accident, but they can signal serious underlying injuries. Common causes of post-accident headaches include:

• Whiplash injuries. The rapid back-and-forth motion of the head during a collision can strain neck muscles and nerves, leading to delayed-onset headaches.

• Concussions. Even mild impacts to the head can cause a concussion, resulting in headaches, confusion, or dizziness that worsen without treatment.

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Severe headaches can indicate conditions like a brain bleed or swelling, which require immediate medical intervention.

• Blood vessel damage. Damage to blood vessels in the neck or head, such as a carotid artery tear, can cause sharp headaches and other concerning symptoms like blurred vision.

• Psychological stress or PTSD. Emotional trauma from an accident may manifest as tension headaches, often accompanied by anxiety or recurring distressing thoughts.

Warning Signs: When Should a Headache After a Crash Worry You?

If you’re suffering from headaches following an auto accident, it could be more than temporary discomfort or a common reaction. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience the following symptoms.

Symptom	What To Watch For
Worsening Intensity	Head pain that becomes sharper, more persistent, or increasingly disruptive.
Nausea or Vomiting	Discomfort in your head accompanied by stomach upset or frequent retching.
Dizziness or Confusion	Feeling mentally foggy, unsteady on your feet, or unable to focus.
Vision Changes	Difficulty seeing clearly, such as distorted or unfocused images.
Numbness or Weakness	A tingling sensation, reduced strength, or inability to move certain areas.
Persistent Headaches	Lingering discomfort that doesn’t subside or ease for several days.
Speech Difficulties	Words that come out jumbled, unclear, or harder to form during conversations.

Why Immediate Medical Attention Is Crucial

A prompt medical evaluation after a vehicle collision helps quickly identify and treat hidden injuries. Here’s why you should always visit a healthcare provider following a crash: 

• Early detection. Headaches can signal hidden injuries, such as TBIs or cervical strain, that require immediate attention. Diagnostic tools like CT scans or neurological exams not only uncover these injuries but also guide timely treatment to prevent chronic pain or cognitive impairments.

• Proper documentation. Medical evaluations provide detailed records of your condition immediately after the accident. This documentation creates a clear link between the collision and your injuries, preventing insurers from claiming unrelated causes or questioning delays in seeking treatment.

• Demonstrating injury severity. Comprehensive medical reports detail the full extent of your injuries, including their impact on your physical and mental health. These records are crucial for establishing long-term effects and supporting claims for damages like ongoing medical treatment or diminished quality of life.

• South Carolina’s statute of limitations. South Carolina law typically gives you three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. However, delaying medical treatment could weaken your case, as insurers may argue that your injuries weren’t severe or weren’t caused by the crash.

• Comparative negligence. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. Seeking immediate medical attention strengthens your case by clearly documenting injuries and linking them to the collision.

How Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

Dealing with a personal injury claim while managing post-accident symptoms can feel overwhelming. An experienced car accident lawyer from Berly Rouse takes the stress off your shoulders by building a strong case while you recover. Our team will do the following:

• Gather key evidence, including police reports, accident scene photos, and witness statements.
• Work with medical professionals to document injuries and demonstrate their connection to the crash.
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies to address low settlement offers.
• File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Don’t wait to seek legal advice if headaches or other symptoms appear after a car accident. At Berly Rouse, our experienced personal injury lawyers provide South Carolina residents with the support needed to recover. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we fight for the compensation you deserve.

Your health and peace of mind deserve the best protection. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal responsibilities of your claim while you focus on healing.

Categories: Car Accident