Why Does My Head Hurt After Being in a Car Accident?

If your head hurts after your car accident, you may have whiplash, a traumatic brain injury (TBI), or a stress injury from your collision. Head pain is perhaps the single most common type of pain we hear people report after an accident, even fairly minor ones.

In fact, alone with neck and back pain, it may be the biggest after-effect of car accidents in general. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the hardest to live with. Headaches can prevent you from working, make it hard to concentrate, and even keep you up at night.

So why does your head hurt after your accident? Below, we’ll look at possible causes—and the steps you can take alongside an Atlanta car accident lawyer for each one.

5 Reasons Why Your Head Hurts After a Car Accident

1. Did you hit your head on the steering wheel? Even with a seatbelt on, you can be thrown forward and hit your head on the dashboard, steering wheel, or a seat in front of you. Any of these can cause head injuries including concussions and brain injuries. Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers know that every head injury has the potential to cause swelling—and the potential for serious injury. If you took a blow to the head, or aren’t sure if you did, see a doctor immediately.
2. Did the airbag deploy? When the airbag deploys, it’s supposed to cushion you. But that “cushion” can feel a lot like being hit with a ton of bricks. In fact, although airbags help prevent very serious injuries, the force with which they hit you can actually cause more minor injuries. In particular, they may hit you in the face or head and throw you back against the seat, both of which can cause headaches or even head injuries. See a doctor and tell them you experienced an airbag deploying—they’ll check you for a concussion and can recommend treatment for your head.
3. Do you have whiplash? Many people don’t believe in whiplash until it happens, but this painful neck injury can cause your head to hurt as well. Whiplash typically requires more than just Tylenol—you may benefit from physical therapy, a neck brace, or other measures to help your muscles and soft tissue recover.
4. Have you checked your blood pressure? If you check your blood pressure regularly due to hypertension or a heart problem, check it when you have your headache. Many people have higher blood pressure after the accident, and this may cause your head to hurt. Give your doctor’s office a call and ask them if you should come in to be checked.
5. Are you still dealing with stress or trauma? Car accidents cause a lot of stress, and even anxiety and fear of driving. They can even leave you with PTSD. But simple stress, on its own, can cause headaches and other issues. You can try self-care activities like getting enough rest, eating well, exercising, and making time for de-stress activities like reading, meditation, or something relaxing. If stress and anxiety persists, you could also ask your doctor for a referral to a good therapist.

If you are wondering “When should I see a doctor?” after a car accident, the answer is always as soon as possible. An early diagnosis and treatment can help you recover faster. Furthermore, seeking immediate medical help will help boost your credibility if you decide to file a claim or lawsuit.

Remember—if you are the victim of the accident, you do not need to pay for your treatment on your own. The insurance company may have to pay for it even if they initially say no. An Atlanta head and concussion injury accident attorney can help you secure fair compensation by negotiating with the insurance company. Take your head pain seriously and get the medical help you need.

Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer for Free

Our legal team can help you get every dollar you deserve in your accident claim—including money for all of your medical costs. Let us give you a FREE consultation.