Concussion After a Car Accident
Concussion After a Car Accident in Westchester, NY
A car accident can cause a concussion even when your head does not strike anything. The same forces that cause whiplash can move the brain inside the skull, and symptoms sometimes appear hours or days after the collision. Our neurosurgical team at Kavera NeuroHealth evaluates and manages concussion after a motor-vehicle accident with structured, guideline-informed care.
Why a collision can injure the brain and the neck together
The neck and the brain are often affected at the same time and can share symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. An evaluation that considers both supports an accurate picture and a clear plan. Care is directed by John M. Abrahams, MD, a board-certified neurosurgeon who has practiced in Westchester County for more than two decades.
Symptoms to watch for after an accident
Headache, neck pain, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, sensitivity to light or sound, trouble concentrating or remembering, and changes in sleep or mood. These do not always appear the same day. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for a severe or worsening headache, repeated vomiting, a seizure, loss of consciousness, confusion, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, or difficulty staying awake.
Head & brain symptoms.
Headache, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and trouble concentrating or remembering that may build over hours or days.
Neck symptoms.
Neck pain and stiffness from whiplash frequently accompany a concussion and can share and amplify symptoms such as headache and dizziness.
Sleep & mood changes.
Fatigue, disrupted sleep, irritability, and mood changes are common and are tracked as part of your recovery.
Red-flag warning signs.
A severe or worsening headache, repeated vomiting, a seizure, loss of consciousness, confusion, weakness, or slurred speech need emergency care right away.
How we evaluate
We establish a baseline through a structured history, a neurological and vestibular examination, cognitive testing, and validated questionnaires. The neck is part of the assessment when it is contributing to symptoms, and findings are organized into a clear record. Our program pairs experienced clinical judgment with the Kavera Concussion Platform, which organizes objective baseline and follow-up assessments so your care team can track symptoms and cognition over time. Kavera is a tool our clinicians use; it does not replace medical judgment and does not provide treatment.
Ongoing, tracked recovery
Initial evaluation.
A thorough neurological evaluation establishes your baseline and identifies the symptoms and factors most relevant to your recovery after the collision.
Between-visit check-ins.
Brief check-ins reach you by email or text so your care team follows your recovery without waiting for the next appointment.
Telehealth follow-up.
Where appropriate, telehealth concussion care can reduce travel and keep your care responsive as recovery evolves.
Re-evaluation.
Progress is reviewed against your baseline, and the plan is adjusted toward a safe return to daily activity, work, and school.
Insurance after an accident or work injury
Head injuries from a motor vehicle accident are often covered under No-Fault / Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, and work-related head injuries may be covered under Workers' Compensation. Our office can work with these claims so you can focus on recovery. Dr. Abrahams is licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut and sees patients in person and by secure video visit across the tri-state area.
Explore the concussion program
The full concussion program.
Concussion & brain injury programKnow the symptoms.
Concussion symptomsSymptoms that persist.
Post-concussion syndrome careAthletes and return to play.
Sports concussion & return to playChildren and teenagers.
Youth & pediatric concussion careCare from home.
Telehealth concussion careQuestions about concussion after a car accident.
Can you have a concussion without hitting your head?
Yes. The rapid motion of the head and neck in a collision can move the brain inside the skull even without a direct impact.
How soon should I be evaluated after an accident?
Promptly is reasonable, and it is worth being evaluated even if symptoms are mild or delayed, because concussion symptoms can develop over hours and days.
Do you treat both the concussion and the neck symptoms?
Our assessment considers both the brain and the neck, since they are frequently affected together after a collision.
Is concussion care after an accident covered by insurance?
Head injuries from a motor vehicle accident are frequently covered under No-Fault / Personal Injury Protection (PIP), and work-related injuries may be covered under Workers' Compensation. Our office can help you navigate these claims.
Where are you located?
Concussion care is offered at both of our offices: 244 Westchester Avenue, Suite 209, West Harrison, NY 10604, and 1985 Crompond Road, Suite B2, Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567, serving White Plains and Westchester County. Call (914) 948-3008.
Visit us in Westchester
West Harrison
244 Westchester Avenue, Suite 209
West Harrison, NY 10604
Cortlandt Manor
1985 Crompond Road, Suite B2
Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567
Phone: (914) 948-3008 · Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Take the next step toward recovery.
Share a few details and our team will reach out within one business day. For urgent matters, call (914) 948-3008.
This page is general health information, not medical advice, and does not create a doctor–patient relationship. If you think you or your child may have a serious head or brain injury, seek emergency care or call 911.