Concussions, a form of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), affect many aspects of life, including the ability to drive safely. A concussion disrupts cognitive function, reaction time, and awareness, increasing risks on the road.
Teen drivers and athletes face higher risks due to the frequency of concussions in sports. This article explains how concussions impact driving, symptoms that make driving unsafe, medical recommendations for returning to the road, legal liabilities, and steps to take after an accident involving a concussed driver. If you need the help of a car accident lawyer in Las Vegas, don’t hesitate to contact us.
How Concussions Affect Driving Abilities
A concussion disrupts reaction time, judgment, and concentration, making it dangerous to operate a vehicle. Even mild concussions create cognitive deficits that compromise driving skills. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that post-concussion impairments affect motor skills and attention, increasing accident risks. Anyone recovering from a concussion should evaluate their condition before getting behind the wheel.
Some individuals feel fine physically but still suffer from cognitive impairments that may not be immediately obvious. A driving simulator helps assess whether someone remains safe to drive after a head injury. Adolescent drivers, who may not fully grasp the risks, benefit from additional evaluations to ensure they do not return to the road too soon.
Symptoms That Make Driving Unsafe After a Concussion
Headaches, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating make driving unsafe. These symptoms slow reaction time and impair decision-making, leading to dangerous situations. Fatigue further reduces alertness, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Emotional changes such as irritability and mood swings also affect driving behavior. A concussion alters brain function in ways that make operating a vehicle more dangerous. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should wait until fully recovered before resuming driving.
Medical Considerations for Safe Driving After a Head Injury
Doctors often recommend waiting until all concussion symptoms disappear before resuming driving. A healthcare provider evaluates cognitive function and motor skills to determine readiness.
A driving assessment provides further insight into whether someone remains fit to drive. A conversation with a doctor about ongoing symptoms helps ensure a safe return to the road. Following medical advice reduces risks for both the driver and others on the road.
Legal Liability for Driving with a Concussion
Driving while impaired by a concussion leads to legal consequences. If a crash occurs, the concussed driver may bear responsibility for any damages or injuries. Laws regarding impaired driving vary by state, but all drivers hold the responsibility of ensuring they remain fit to drive.
Insurance claims become complicated when a driver’s impairment contributes to an accident. A driver suffering from a concussion who causes an accident may face increased liability. Anyone involved in such a situation benefits from seeking legal guidance to understand their rights and obligations.
Steps to Take After a Crash Involving a Concussed Driver
Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Document the scene with photos and collect contact details from all involved parties. Witness statements help establish the facts of the accident.
A medical evaluation remains necessary, even if no visible injuries appear. Some concussion symptoms take time to manifest. Reporting the accident to an insurance provider and consulting a legal professional helps navigate liability concerns. Taking these steps helps ensure proper handling of the situation.
Contact Our Las Vegas Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today
Anyone involved in an accident where a driver had a concussion should consult a personal injury attorney. Legal professionals provide guidance on personal injury claims and liability concerns. An attorney assesses the case, gathers evidence, and represents clients in negotiations or court proceedings.
If you’ve been injured in Las Vegas, NV, and need legal help contact our Las Vegas personal injury attorneys at De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case evaluation today.
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
1149 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV. 89104
(702) 222-9999
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Summerlin Office
410 S Rampart Blvd, Ste 480 Las Vegas, NV. 89145
(702) 297-6373
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
9555 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV. 89123
(702) 997-4264
