While concussions are often dismissed as mild, the reality can be far more complex. You might experience symptoms that persist for weeks, months or even longer. This is known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and can be a frustrating and even life-altering condition.
If you feel your PCS resulted from someone else’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation. That’s where Injury Lawyers 4u come in. Our experienced team is here to help, with expert advice and no-win, no-fee representation. Starting post concussion syndrome claims with us couldn’t be easier. Get in touch for a free consultation.
What is post-concussion syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) happens when concussion symptoms last longer than usual — sometimes for weeks or even months after the injury. While most people recover quickly from a concussion, PCS can lead to lasting problems that impact everyday life.
Common PCS symptoms include:
- Persistent headaches or migraines
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Fatigue and trouble sleeping
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Irritability, mood swings or anxiety
- Blurred vision or ringing in the ears
Unlike other mild brain injuries, the symptoms of PCS don’t go away after a few days – and in some cases, they can even worsen over time. It’s also worth noting that post-concussion symptoms might not appear immediately after your injury, which can make it harder to diagnose and treat.
What causes post-concussion syndrome?
PCS is usually the result of a traumatic brain injury after a blow or jolt to the head. Common causes include:
- Road traffic accidents — Collisions that involve cars, bicycles, motorbikes or e-scooters are a major cause of head injuries, especially if you are a vulnerable road user.
- Workplace injuries — Falls from height, being struck by falling objects or head impacts from machinery are common in construction, manufacturing and manual labour sectors.
- Slips, trips and falls — Incidents in public spaces can result in significant head trauma, especially if it’s caused by poor maintenance or hazards.
- Sports injuries — Contact sports like football, rugby, boxing and cycling all have a high risk of concussion especially if appropriate medical protocols aren’t followed.
If you have been the victim of any of these accidents, or have long-term concussion symptoms, claim today.
Can you make a claim for post-concussion syndrome?
If you are making a PCS or delayed concussion diagnosis compensation claim, you’ll need to link your symptoms to an accident caused by another person or organisation’s negligence. Making a successful claim typically involves:
- Proving negligence – The negligent party could be a driver, employer, business owner or another individual or group who failed in their duty of care to you.
- Medical diagnosis – You’ll need to gather any and all medical records that confirm your head injury and PCS diagnosis.
- Linking the injury to the accident – It must be shown that your PCS symptoms are a direct result of the original head injury accident.
- Documenting impact – Get together some evidence that shows how your life, work, health or relationships have been affected. This will support your PCS claim in the UK.
All post-concussion syndrome claims come with a three-year time limit attached. So be sure to get in touch with a solicitor to start a claim with time to spare. The quicker you start a case, the easier it will be to gather evidence and make a successful claim.
How much compensation can you claim?
All personal injury claims bring different levels of compensation along with them. The amount you could be awarded will depend on symptoms, recovery time, and how the condition has impacted your life. Compensation typically falls into two categories, general damages and special damages:
- General damages — This compensation covers the pain and suffering your PCS has caused you.
- Special damages — This compensation covers all the financial implications of your PCS, including loss of earnings, medical treatment and any ongoing care costs.
While special damages are different for everyone, general damages rely on the Judicial College Guidelines. To get a good idea of your general damages, use our compensation calculator.
Real-life case study
47 year old construction worker Dave suffered a blow to the head when a piece of unsecured scaffolding fell at a building site. Although he was wearing a helmet and was discharged from hospital with a mild concussion, Dave began experiencing long-term dizziness, mood swings and difficulty sleeping within days of the accident.
Dave ended up taking an extended leave of absence from work and eventually lost his job because of his symptoms. Our experts at Injury Lawyers 4u helped Dave prove the site operator had failed to follow proper safety protocols by gathering witness statements, medical reports and CCTV footage, securing compensation. This covered his backlog of lost earnings and his future care costs.
How can Injury Lawyers 4u help?
If you are struggling with ongoing symptoms after a head injury, you don’t have to face it alone. At Injury Lawyers 4u, we’re here to listen, support and guide you every step of the way. Our experienced solicitors will offer you expert legal advice on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you won’t pay a penny in legal fees unless your case is a success. There’s nothing to lose by getting in touch. Talk to us today.
Frequently asked questions
What is post-concussion syndrome and how long does it last?
PCS is a set of symptoms that continue after a concussion. It can last a few weeks or continue for several months or even years, varying case to case.
Can you claim compensation for post-concussion syndrome?
If your head injury was caused by someone else’s negligence and you have medical evidence of PCS, you will likely be entitled to claim.
What are the legal time limits for making a PCS claim in the UK?
You typically have three years from the date of the accident or diagnosis to start a claim. Different rules apply for children or those lacking mental capacity.
How much is a post-concussion syndrome claim worth?
The amount of compensation your claim will produce will depend on the severity, impact on daily life, and long-term prognosis. Use our compensation calculator for a good starting point.
What evidence do I need to support a PCS compensation claim?
The best evidence you could pull together to assist in a case is medical records, a diagnosis of PCS, documentation linking the injury to the accident and evidence of financial or personal impact to you.