Following a car accident in Ontario, most people are concerned with the obvious injuries: neck pain, bruising, or soreness. But some of the most serious injuries are the ones you can’t see. Mild Traumatic brain injuries, known more commonly as concussions, can occur with even low-speed collisions and may not be immediately apparent in the hours or days following the collision.
As Ontario personal injury lawyers, we see this all the time. Accident victims walk away thinking they are fine, just to then develop symptoms later which affect their memory, mood, concentration, work performance, and general quality of life. The early recognition of such signs is crucial; for both your health and for the protection of your accident benefits claim.
1. Persistent Headaches or Pressure in the Head
New or worsening headaches are among the earliest signs of a mild traumatic brain injury. These headaches often come with pressure, throbbing, or a feeling of “tightness.” Many Ontario drivers think that it’s just stress, however when headaches show up after a collision, they should be taken seriously.
2. Mental Fog or Difficulty Concentrating
If you feel mentally “off,” slower or more easily overwhelmed after an accident, this could be a sign of concussion. Victims commonly report difficulties in completing work tasks, following conversations, or reading and retaining information.
3. Sensitivity to Light or Noise
If bright lights feel harsh or normal sounds suddenly feel overwhelming, your brain may be overstimulated and unable to modulate sensory inputs.
4. Mood Swings or Emotional Sensitivity
Irritability, sadness, anxiety, frustration, or emotional outbursts can arise with a mild brain injury.
5. Sleep Disturbances or Extreme Fatigue
A brain injury can affect your sleep cycle and make you sleep too much or won’t let you sleep asleep or wakeful during the night, or tired on rising.
6. Memory Issues and Forgetfulness
Repeating questions; forgetting conversations; misplacing items more often than usual
are red flags.
7. Dizziness or Balance Problems
This feeling of unsteadiness, light-headedness, or off-balance is normal after mild traumatic brain injuries.
Why Early Reporting Matters Under Ontario’s Insurance System
Under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule, insurers rely heavily on early medical records. If you suspect a brain injury, it’s vital to see your doctor immediately, report symptoms to your insurer, complete your OCF-1, obtain your OCF-3, and follow up with specialists.
How Mild Brain Injuries Affect Your Personal Injury Case
Mild traumatic brain injuries can affect work, driving, concentration, emotional regulation, and daily functioning. Proper documentation fortifies both the accident benefits claim and any lawsuit for pain and suffering or future care.
When to Contact an Ontario Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident or any personal injury incident in Ontario and you’re experiencing even one of the symptoms above, seek medical care immediately and then seek legal advice. The sooner you act, the more you protect your health, financial security, long-term recovery, and legal rights.
Azimi Law has extensive experience helping Ontario accident victims with concussions and mild traumatic brain injuries. Whether you need help completing OCF forms, accident benefits or a lawsuit, Azimi Law will stand with you every step of the way.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following an accident, reach out to Azimi Law today for guidance and a clear path forward.
