As part of our educational series on delayed post-accident injuries, this article explores how even a minor crash can lead to a hidden concussion. If you’re feeling “off” after a recent accident – foggy, tired, or unlike yourself – this guide explains why it could be more serious than it seems and what to do next.
What to Know About Hidden Head Injuries After a Crash
You didn’t black out. There was no serious head trauma. Just a minor car crash—maybe a bump at a red light or a fender bender in a parking lot. At the time, you felt okay. But now, days later, you’re foggy, irritable, or having trouble focusing.
You might think it’s just stress or exhaustion. But symptoms like these can point to something more serious: a concussion.
At Brooks, LeBoeuf, Foster, Gwartney, & Hobbs P.A., we regularly hear from people in this situation – accident victims who didn’t feel hurt right away but later realized something wasn’t right. If you’re feeling off after a crash, it’s worth paying attention. What you’re experiencing may not just go away on its own, and acting now can help protect both your health and your legal rights.
You Don’t Need to Hit Your Head to Get a Concussion
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) – and it doesn’t always require a direct blow to the head. In fact, sudden movement or whiplash alone can be enough to cause your brain to shift or bounce against the inside of your skull.
This means that even low-speed collisions can result in a concussion, especially when your body is jolted unexpectedly.
You might walk away from the scene thinking you’re fine. But as the adrenaline wears off and your body begins to recover, subtle but serious symptoms can start to surface.
Common Signs of a Concussion After a Crash
Concussion symptoms don’t always show up right away. Many develop gradually over the first few days. They can vary from person to person, but common red flags include:
- Persistent headaches or pressure in your head.
- Dizziness, balance issues, or nausea.
- Sensitivity to light or sound.
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things.
- Irritability, mood swings, or increased anxiety.
- Fatigue or difficulty sleeping.
- Feeling dazed, “foggy,” or not like yourself.
These signs are easy to dismiss – especially after a “minor” accident – but they may indicate your brain is struggling to recover from trauma.
Why Concussions Are Often Missed After Accidents
There are several reasons concussions go unrecognized after car crashes:
- No obvious head injury.
- Symptoms delayed by hours or days.
- Belief that low-speed accidents can’t cause real harm.
- Assumption it’s just stress, tension, or shock.
- Desire to avoid seeming dramatic or overcautious.
Unfortunately, these misconceptions can delay care and worsen recovery. Many accident victims try to push through mild symptoms, not realizing that their “just tired” feeling could be the early stage of a brain injury.
Why Early Diagnosis Is So Important
Concussions can range from mild to severe, but all require medical attention. Left untreated, even a mild TBI can lead to complications like:
- Prolonged cognitive issues.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Heightened sensitivity to further injury.
- Chronic headaches or post-concussion syndrome.
Getting checked out ensures that your symptoms are properly diagnosed – and it allows your provider to monitor your progress and prevent long-term complications.
It also creates an official medical record that can be critical if you need to pursue insurance benefits or legal action later on.
Florida’s 14-Day Rule: Why Timing Matters
Under Florida law, most drivers are covered by Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which pays for medical care after a crash regardless of who caused it.
But there’s a strict timeline:
- You have 14 days from the date of the accident to seek medical care if you want that treatment covered under PIP.
This includes concussions, soft tissue injuries, and any accident-related symptoms – even if they weren’t obvious right away.
If you don’t see a medical professional within that window, your PIP benefits may be denied, leaving you to pay for care out of pocket. Even if you’re not sure your symptoms are “serious enough,” it’s smart to get evaluated and document everything.
How Delayed Concussion Symptoms Can Impact Your Claim
When concussion symptoms appear after a delay, it can create confusion with insurance companies. They may question whether your symptoms are really related to the accident or try to minimize the severity of your injury.
That’s why documentation matters. When your symptoms and diagnosis are clearly connected to the crash, it strengthens your ability to:
- Access PIP benefits.
- File a liability claim against the at-fault driver, if applicable.
- Recover compensation for medical bills, time off work, and pain and suffering (when supported by evidence).
These cases can become complex quickly – especially when brain injuries are involved. Getting legal guidance early can help you avoid mistakes that could weaken your claim.
What to Do If You Think You Might Have a Concussion
If you’ve been feeling off – physically or mentally – after a crash, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Here’s what to do:
Get a Medical Evaluation
Whether it’s with your primary doctor, urgent care, or a concussion specialist, don’t delay. Even a simple neurological screening can catch issues early and set the foundation for recovery.
Be Honest About Your Symptoms
Don’t downplay what you’re feeling. Tiredness, mood swings, or trouble concentrating may feel subtle – but they matter. Tell your doctor when your symptoms began and how they’ve changed since the accident.
Keep Track of Your Recovery
Make notes about your symptoms, sleep patterns, concentration, and how you feel day-to-day. This record can help your provider and your attorney understand how the injury is affecting your life.
Talk to a Lawyer Before You File an Insurance Claim
A personal injury attorney can help ensure your concussion-related symptoms are documented correctly, your deadlines are met, and your options are protected from the start.
Brooks, LeBoeuf, Foster, Gwartney, & Hobbs P.A.: Helping Accident Victims with Concussion Claims in Tallahassee and Beyond
If you’ve been feeling off since a crash – even if you didn’t hit your head – you don’t have to face the uncertainty alone. At Brooks, LeBoeuf, Foster, Gwartney, & Hobbs P.A., we help clients every day who didn’t realize they were seriously injured until well after their accident.
From our office in Tallahassee, we serve individuals and families throughout Leon County and surrounding communities, including Crawfordville, Quincy, Monticello, Havana, and beyond.
We’ll help you:
- Understand what your symptoms could mean.
- Connect with trusted doctors and specialists.
- Document your medical condition properly.
- Make sure your insurance works the way it should.
- Explore your legal options, even if you're not sure you need to file a claim.
You don’t have to have all the answers – just start with a conversation.
Call our Tallahassee car accident attorneys today or fill out our contact form for a free, no-pressure consultation.
We’ll help you make sense of what you’re feeling and decide what to do next. Because your health, your future, and your peace of mind are too important to ignore.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. If you’ve been involved in an accident, consult with a licensed attorney and qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific situation.