Can You Get a Concussion in a Car Accident Without Hitting Your Head?

What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden movement that shakes the brain inside the skull. In a car accident, even if there’s no visible injury or head strike, the force of the impact can cause the brain to move rapidly back and forth, resulting in microscopic damage to brain cells.
This shaking effect is similar to what happens in sports-related injuries or falls where whiplash is involved.
How It Happens in a Car Crash
During a collision, your body is often jolted forward and backward suddenly. This rapid acceleration-deceleration motion can:
-
Cause your brain to collide with the inside of your skull
-
Disrupt normal brain function temporarily
-
Lead to symptoms of a concussion, even if your head never touched anything
In many Kansas City accidents, victims walk away thinking they’re fine, only to develop symptoms hours or days later.
Common Symptoms of a Concussion
After a car accident, keep an eye out for signs such as:
-
Headache or pressure in the head
-
Dizziness or balance problems
-
Confusion or memory issues
-
Sensitivity to light or noise
-
Nausea or vomiting
-
Feeling foggy, dazed, or slowed down
If you experience any of these symptoms—even if you didn’t hit your head—you could have a concussion and should seek medical care immediately.
Why Immediate Evaluation Matters
Undiagnosed concussions can have long-term effects, especially if you continue normal activities without rest. At Keystone Medical Group, we use advanced diagnostic tools, including QEEG, MRI, and DTI, to detect even subtle signs of brain trauma.
Early detection allows us to create a personalized recovery plan that might include neurology, physical therapy, or cognitive rehabilitation—all under one roof.
Get Expert Concussion Care in Kansas City
If you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing symptoms, don’t wait for them to get worse. At Keystone Medical Group, our team of injury specialists understands how to diagnose and treat concussions—even the ones that go unnoticed in ER visits.
We work with personal injury attorneys and can help you navigate documentation for insurance and legal claims.
Call Keystone Medical Group Today
Don’t ignore the signs of a hidden injury. If you suspect a concussion—even without hitting your head—contact Keystone Medical Group in Kansas City today at 816-705-2842 to schedule an evaluation. Early care leads to better recovery.