Concussion Injury

Concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury 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 create chemical changes in the brain or even damage brain cells. Concussions are usually not life-threatening, but their effects can be serious.

How long can concussion symptoms last for?

Concussion symptoms typically resolve within a few days to a few weeks after the injury. However, in some cases, symptoms can persist for months or even longer, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. The duration of symptoms varies greatly among individuals and depends on factors such as the severity of the concussion, the individual’s age, health history, and the presence of any pre-existing conditions.

What are the most common causes of concussion?

The most common causes are falls, vehicle-related collisions, sports injuries, and being struck by or against an object. Falls are especially prevalent among young children and older adults. In sports, concussions frequently occur in high-impact activities like football and rugby. Car accidents can cause concussions through sudden stops or collisions. Additionally, blunt trauma to the head from various accidents or physical altercations can lead to concussions. A concussion can occur even without a direct blow to the head if an impact causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull.

In what sort of circumstances is it possible to bring an injury claim for a concussion?

An injury claim for a concussion can be brought in circumstances where the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. Common scenarios include car accidents, sports injuries due to lack of safety measures, workplace incidents, slips and falls in public places, and physical assaults. The key factor is establishing that another party’s action or inaction directly led to the concussion. Documentation of the incident, medical records, and witness testimonies play an important role in substantiating such claims.

How much compensation will be awarded?

This depends on the severity and impact of the concussion. In accordance with the Judicial Council’s Personal Injuries Guidelines, minor head injuries where a substantial recovery is made within six months might result in a general damages award in the region of €500-€3,000 (see page 12 of the guidelines).