Can You Get a Concussion from a Low-Speed Car Accident?

Concussion?

Doctor, in a low-speed collision accident, there were no external injuries, and I was wearing a helmet at the time.
My head did not impact anything; I only fell to the ground.
Is there a possibility of a concussion in this situation? Thank you for your response.

CHICHI, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/07/15

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery

A concussion is typically caused by an impact to the head that results in brain injury.
Therefore, if a person is wearing a helmet and there is no direct impact to the head, theoretically, a concussion should not occur.
However, during a car accident, there are often multiple impacts, and sometimes the individual may not be aware of or may forget about these impacts.
As a result, there is still a possibility of experiencing a concussion afterward.
It is important to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if any discomfort arises.

Reply Date: 2009/07/15

More Info

Yes, it is possible to sustain a concussion from a low-speed car accident, even if there are no visible external injuries and you were wearing a helmet. While helmets are designed to protect the head from direct impacts, they cannot completely eliminate the risk of concussions, particularly in situations where the brain experiences rapid acceleration or deceleration forces.

A concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that occurs when the brain is subjected to a sudden jolt or impact, causing it to move within the skull. This movement can lead to chemical changes in the brain and sometimes damage to brain cells. In low-speed accidents, the forces involved may not be strong enough to cause a direct impact to the head, but they can still result in the brain moving violently within the skull, leading to a concussion.

In your specific scenario, even though you were wearing a helmet and did not experience a direct impact to your head, the act of falling to the ground can generate enough force to cause a concussion. The sudden stop when hitting the ground can create a whiplash effect, where the head and neck are thrown forward and then backward, potentially leading to brain movement that can result in a concussion.

It is also important to note that symptoms of a concussion may not appear immediately. They can manifest hours or even days after the incident. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to light or noise, and balance problems. If you experience any of these symptoms following the accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation.

Furthermore, even in the absence of immediate symptoms, it is advisable to monitor your condition closely. Some individuals may experience delayed symptoms, and it is essential to be vigilant about any changes in your cognitive or physical state. If you notice any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

In summary, while wearing a helmet and not having a direct impact to the head may reduce the risk of a concussion, it does not eliminate it entirely. The mechanics of the accident, including the forces involved during the fall, can still lead to a concussion. Therefore, if you have any doubts or experience symptoms, it is always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.

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