Concussion After an Auto Accident: What You Need to Know

Understanding Concussions After a Car Accident

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when a sudden blow or jolt to the head disrupts brain function. After an auto accident, concussions are common but often overlooked — especially when there is no direct head impact.

At Accident Clinics of Memorial Park, our team of experienced accident care doctors provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for concussion and other post-accident injuries. With locations in Oklahoma City (OKC), Tulsa, Norman, Ada, Ardmore, Duncan and Yukon , we’re here to help you recover safely and fully. Yes, we are expanding to serve you.

What Causes a Concussion During a Car Accident?

You don’t need to hit your head to get a concussion. The rapid deceleration that occurs during a car crash can cause the brain to move within the skull, leading to bruising or microscopic injuries.

Common Mechanisms of Injury:

  • Rear-end collisions leading to whiplash + concussion

  • Side-impact crashes causing sudden head rotation

  • Hitting airbags, windows, or the steering wheel

  • Even mild fender benders can cause brain trauma

These types of injuries are why it’s crucial to seek care at an accident care treatment center even if you feel “okay” right after the crash.

Common Concussion Symptoms After a Crash

Concussions affect everyone differently. Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others emerge days later.

Physical Symptoms:

  • Headache or pressure in the head, usually all over

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Dizziness and balance problems

  • Light and noise sensitivity

  • Blurred or double vision

Cognitive & Emotional Symptoms:

  • Confusion or feeling “foggy”

  • Memory loss or difficulty concentrating

  • Irritability or mood swings

  • Anxiety or depression

Sleep Disturbances:

  • Insomnia or sleeping more than usual

  • Difficulty staying asleep

These signs may seem subtle at first. That’s why consulting an accident care doctor early is essential — especially if you’re searching for “accident care near me” after a collision.

Diagnosis of a Post-Accident Concussion

What Happens at Accident Clinics of Memorial Park:

  • Neurological exam

  • Symptom questionnaires

  • Balance and eye-tracking tests

  • Imaging (CT or MRI, if needed)

  • Coordination with other specialists

Our accident care treatment centers provide fast, efficient evaluations — and we document all findings to support insurance or legal cases if applicable.

Treatment Options for Concussion

There’s no magic pill for a concussion, but timely, evidence-based care helps patients recover faster and reduce the risk of long-term problems.

Treatment Strategies Include:

  • Physical Rest: Avoid strenuous activity for the first few days, after physician evaluation and possibly imaging

  • Cognitive Rest: Limit screen time and tasks requiring concentration, as directed by a physician

  • Gradual Return to Activity: Following a step-by-step protocol

  • Vestibular Therapy: For balance and motion issues

  • Medication Management: For headaches, sleep issues, or anxiety

We tailor each recovery plan based on your needs and symptoms. Our providers monitor your healing closely to prevent complications like post-concussion syndrome.

How Long Does Concussion Recovery Take?

Most people recover within 2–4 weeks. However, factors like prior head injuries, age, and severity of the crash may affect healing time.

If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, our accident care team may add advanced therapies such as:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

  • Pain management for persistent headaches

  • Coordination with neurologists

Long-Term Risks of Untreated Concussion

Delaying treatment can lead to:

  • Chronic headaches

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Personality or mood changes

  • Post-traumatic stress symptoms

  • Death - yes, this can be serious

This is why it's essential to consult a qualified accident care doctor immediately — even for seemingly minor symptoms.

What Sets Accident Clinics of Memorial Park Apart

With four convenient locations — OKC, Tulsa, Norman, and Yukon — we are Oklahoma’s trusted destination for accident care treatment centers.

What You Get With Us:

  • Same-day evaluations, by double board certified physicians

  • Multidisciplinary care

  • Concussion management expertise

  • Legal- and insurance-ready documentation

  • Compassionate support from start to finish

When you search “accident care near me”, we aim to be your first and best option because we are the best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I have a concussion without hitting my head?

Yes — the brain can sustain injury just from whiplash or rapid deceleration.

Do I need a CT scan?

Not always. CT scans are usually only needed if you show signs of a more serious brain injury (e.g., repeated vomiting, seizures, or worsening symptoms). This will be decided when the evaluation is done by one of our PHYSICIANS.

Should I go to the ER or an accident clinic?

For mild to moderate symptoms, our accident care doctors provide the same high-quality evaluation without the long ER wait or cost.

Will my symptoms go away on their own?

Some do — but many persist or worsen without treatment. It’s safer to be evaluated early.

Schedule an Evaluation Today

If you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing headaches, dizziness, or memory issues, don’t wait.

🩺 Visit One of Our Locations:

  • Oklahoma City

  • Tulsa

  • Norman

  • Yukon

  • Bartlesville

  • Muskogee

  • Ada

  • Ardmore

  • Duncan

At Accident Clinics of Memorial Park, we provide fast, expert care for post-accident injuries — especially concussions. Our team of accident care doctors is here to help you recover quickly and safely.

Call to Action:

📞 Call us today or visit accident-clinics.com to schedule your evaluation.
🗺️ Searching for accident care near me? We have locations throughout Oklahoma to serve you better.
🕒 Same-day appointments available!

Drafted and edited by Dr. Blake Christensen