“ A concussion requires more recovery time than most people realize.”
Concussions Linked to Increased Risk of a Serious Traffic Crash
Adults diagnosed with a concussion may be at about 50 per cent higher risk of a subsequent traffic crash, finds a new study from researchers at Sunnybrook Research Institute and ICES.
Concussions can temporarily affect brain function, with symptoms including insomnia, dizziness, depression, brain fog, and slowed reaction times that can linger for weeks. These symptoms could alter driving skills and increase the risk of a motor vehicle accident.
“ I worry that sometimes a concussion requires more recovery time than most people realize,” says Dr. Donald Redelmeier, scientist at ICES and Sunnybrook Research Institute.“ Rushing things might lead to another injury including a life-threatening traffic crash.” 9
Key findings
• The increased risk of a traffic crash is particularly high during the first four weeks after a concussion.
• The overall traffic risks increased further with repeated concussions.
• The traffic risks also applied to pedestrians crossing the street.
• Of the 425,158 adults diagnosed with a concussion in the study, one in 13 patients was injured in a subsequent traffic crash.
• The increased risk accounted for 1,633 total ambulance calls, 59,978 days in hospital, and $ 835 million in medical costs.
“ These results highlight the importance of traffic safety following a concussion as well as preventing concussions in the first place,” says Robert Tibshirani, a professor of statistics at Stanford University and also a co-author of the study.
The researchers recommend patients treat insomnia, headaches, depression, or substance misuse and also avoid high-speed trips during late-night hours in bad weather during the first month after a concussion. Clinicians should also warn patients about road traffic safety after a concussion. g
“ A concussion requires more recovery time than most people realize.”