You might need a lawyer if you suffer a concussion in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence. You may be dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, or the effects of the concussion on your daily life. Although the concussion is considered a “mild” injury, the effects on your brain, work life, and social life can be substantial.
After an accident, many individuals seek a Kansas City car accident lawyer because they are not aware of the extent of their injury or the treatment they will receive from the insurance company. Although the injury is not visible on the MRI, the symptoms can appear after hours or days. It is essential to know your rights to ensure your well-being and financial stability.
What Compensation May Be Available After a Concussion
If another party caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both financial losses and personal harm.
- Medical expenses: Emergency care, follow-up appointments, diagnostic imaging, medications, and therapy
- Lost wages: Income missed during recovery or reduced earning capacity if symptoms continue
- Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort, emotional distress, and changes to your quality of life
- Future care costs: Ongoing neurological treatment or rehabilitation needs
As your Kansas City personal injury lawyer, we will gather records, coordinate with appropriate providers, and present a clear picture of how the concussion has affected your life. Our focus is on securing the results you deserve from a firm you can trust.
Get the compensation you deserve with trusted legal guidance.
How a Concussion Can Affect Your Health and Your Claim
A concussion is defined as a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or a sudden jolt that makes the brain move around in the skull. Even though there may be no obvious signs of injury, the brain can be disrupted to the extent that it causes headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.
Medical documentation is especially important in concussion cases. Some people recover quickly, while others develop long-term symptoms known as post-concussion syndrome. Consistent treatment and proper specialist evaluations strengthen both your recovery and your claim.
Statutes of Limitations
In Missouri, personal injury claims are governed in part by Missouri Revised Statutes Section 516.120, which generally allows five years to file most injury lawsuits.
In Kansas, Kansas Statutes Annotated Section 60-513 typically limits most personal injury claims to two years.
Speaking with a Kansas City personal injury lawyer sooner rather than later helps ensure you do not miss important deadlines.
The Importance of Prompt Medical Documentation
You should seek medical attention in a timely manner to both protect your health and your claim. Insurance companies will scrutinize your medical records to assess whether your symptoms are related to the accident. Delays in receiving treatment or care will only weaken your position if they are seen as unrelated or even exaggerated.
We will help you understand the different roles that various professionals play in your care and case. Your primary care physician will record your ongoing symptoms, and a neurologist will assess brain function and possibly order specialized tests. Therapy may even be recommended in some instances. Thorough medical records often make a meaningful difference when pursuing the settlement you deserve.
If you are unsure what type of specialist to see or how to pay for treatment, we will help guide you. We regularly work with providers who treat on a lien when appropriate, so you can focus on healing while your claim moves forward.
When Legal Guidance Becomes Especially Important
Not every concussion claim requires legal representation. However, certain situations make it much more important to seek advice, such as:
- Insurance disputes: The insurance company denies your claim, delays payment, or argues that your concussion is unrelated to the accident.
- Ongoing symptoms: You experience memory problems, concentration issues, mood changes, or persistent headaches that affect your daily life.
- Lost income: You miss work, reduce your hours, or cannot perform your job duties because of cognitive challenges.
- Significant medical treatment: You require specialist visits, imaging, therapy, or long-term neurological care.
When these factors are present, legal support can help ensure your injury is taken seriously and properly valued.
We’ll help you appeal and secure your rightful benefits.
Why Brain Injuries Are Often Undervalued
At Kevin McManus Law, we have seen how frequently concussions are underestimated. Because there may be no visible wound or dramatic imaging result, insurance adjusters sometimes question the severity of the injury.
We take an education-first approach with every client. We educate them on what the provider does and how better treatment equates to better evidence. A neurologist examines the brain and can order images or neurological testing. A neuropsychologist tests memory, attention, and behavioral changes. Documentation is key to getting the settlement you deserve.
We also encourage individuals to contact us before signing insurance forms or giving recorded statements. Early conversations with insurers can affect your claim. We will guide you so your rights remain protected from the start.
Understanding Your Next Steps After a Concussion
Many people feel uncertain about contacting an attorney. We understand that hesitation. Our role is to provide steady, clear guidance so you can make informed decisions.
At Kevin McManus Law, we are with you from the start. We will examine your medical treatment, discuss how the law applies to your situation, and present you with a clear understanding of what you can expect. Since we work on a contingency basis, you will not pay attorney fees unless we win compensation for you. We are available by phone and ready to fight for you if necessary.
With over 60 years of combined experience and millions recovered for injured clients, we are dedicated to helping you move forward with confidence. We also offer free books, videos, and legal information to help you understand your situation, whether you hire us or not. Begin with a free consultation.