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Head injuries can range from minor bumps to severe trauma. But when is a head injury an automatic 911 call?. Knowing the signs and symptoms that warrant an emergency call can make a significant difference in outcomes.
Should You Call 911 Right After a Car Accident Head Injury?
Head injuries require immediate medical attention in several scenarios. Key indicators that warrant an automatic 911 call possibly a consultation with a Maryland car accident attorney include:
- Loss of Consciousness: Even a brief loss of consciousness can indicate a severe injury.
- Severe Headache: A persistent or worsening headache can be a sign of internal bleeding or pressure.
- Nausea or Vomiting: These symptoms often accompany concussions and other serious head injuries.
- Confusion or Disorientation: Any change in mental state is a red flag that something needs a closer look.
- Drowsiness or Inability to Wake Up: If you struggle to wake up or feel drowsy after an accident, this could signify significant brain trauma.
- Seizures: Any seizure activity following a head injury is an emergency.
Quick response times from emergency services can be lifesaving in such situations.
Types of Head Injuries
There are several types of head injuries you can get, and they can come from general trauma or be a car accident head injury. They include:
- Concussion: It’s a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that impacts brain function. Head blows or forceful shaking frequently induce concussions.
- Intracranial Hematoma (ICH): It’s a collection of blood inside the skull. These can happen after a head injury and cause greater pressure on the brain.
- Closed Skull Fractures: A break in the skull that does not involve an open wound. They can result in damage to the brain tissue beneath the fracture.
- Open Skull Fractures: A break in the skull with an associated open wound. These fractures can lead to infections and further complications due to the exposure of brain tissue.
Given the prevalence of sports and outdoor activities in Virginia, residents should be particularly vigilant about these types of head injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury, consulting a Virginia personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the process of filing a claim and seeking compensation.
Immediate Actions to Take
In the event of a head injury, you should take certain steps while waiting for emergency services to arrive. First, ensure the person remains still to avoid further injury. If the individual is conscious, keep them calm and monitor their symptoms closely. Avoid giving them food or drink, as this could lead to complications.
If they are bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth. Residents in Washington D.C. should familiarize themselves with local emergency numbers and protocols to ensure they can act quickly in an emergency. Having a Washington D.C. brain injury lawyer can also come in handy.
Learning More About Sustaining a Car Accident Head Injury
So, when is a head injury an automatic 911 call? By recognizing the signs and symptoms and knowing the appropriate actions to take, residents can ensure they are prepared to respond effectively in the event of a head injury.
If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP for expert legal assistance with a free consultation to ensure you safeguard your rights.