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If you had an accident that was not your fault and sustained a head injury, you might be eligible for monetary compensation.
As an experienced personal injury attorney, I have represented many clients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries due to car accidents. In this article, I will share everything you need to know about traumatic brain injuries in car accidents.
Quick Summary
- Head injuries requiring immediate medical attention are usually classified as moderate or severe.
- Skull fractures caused by an object piercing the skull are called Penetration Injuries.
- A brain concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a blow to the head.
What Is a Mild to Severe Head Injury?
A mild to severe head injury is when trauma to the head or body causes loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes.
The phrase "head injury" is often used interchangeably with the phrase "traumatic brain injury" or "brain damage." A head injury is any harm to the head. It includes a variety of terms, including traumatic brain injury (TBI) and brain damage.
A mild traumatic brain injury is characterized by mild shaking and dizziness [1]. They're common after car accidents.
Symptoms of mild traumatic brain injuries include:
- Headaches
- Mild confusion
- Dizziness or balance issues
A severe traumatic brain injury needs prompt medical attention and usually falls into the "moderate TBI" or "severe TBI" categories.
A severe brain injury can have symptoms like:
- Persistent severe headaches
- Loss of consciousness
- Skull fracture
- Short-term memory loss
Though every accident victim has a unique case, certain symptoms are often associated with brain trauma. If you have been in an auto accident, you must seek immediate medical attention and be honest about any concussion symptoms or side effects that you might be experiencing.
Read Also: How Long Does It Take To Get Car Accident Settlement?
6 Common Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries From Car Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents can cause several types of brain injuries. Here are 6 common types of brain injuries from car accidents.
1. Concussion
Mild traumatic brain damage (MTBD) is one of the most common and well-known brain injuries caused by car accidents. It's a brain injury caused by a blow to the head, rapid momentum, or altered motion that damages the internal tissue and blood vessels.
Moderate TBI and post-concussion syndrome are two possible long-term effects of a concussion – sometimes, symptoms can last for a while after the initial accident.
2. Contusion Brain Injury
A contusion is just another word for a bruise; however, it becomes more complicated when the brain is involved.
3. Diffuse Axonal Injury
This injury occurs when the brain's structures are pushed beyond their capacity during severe head rotation. It's a more severe form of concussion that can cause side effects such as seizures, awful headaches, and migraines.
4. Penetration
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an object pierces the skull or brain tissue and enters the brain. This is a severe injury and one of the easiest to identify since any blood coming from the head signals penetration (into the skull or, sometimes, too deep to reach the brain).
5. Coup-Contrecoup
A coup-contrecoup brain injury occurs when the brain is injured on both sides: the force side (coup) and the opposing side (contrecoup).
6. Acquired Brain Injuries
Also known as a secondary brain injury, this term refers to injuries that are not caused by the accident's traumatic force but by restricting blood flow to your brain from another primary injury.
Changes in brain cells, chemicals, brain tissue, or blood vessel that can cause more brain damage are also known as secondary injuries. It affects the brain by altering its structure and function.
“Sometimes the effects of car accident brain injury can take time before they reveal themselves; however, they may be severe when they do. You need to take the necessary measures to ensure you are safe from future effects.”
- Carlos Bodden, Attorney
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
You should seek medical care after your crash immediately. This can help prevent further complications that could be life-threatening.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that sometimes people can get blood clots in their brains. The clot can be dangerous and make it hard for the person to breathe [2].
Also Read: Head-On Crash Settlement Value
Can You Claim Damages From a Car Accident?
Yes, you can claim damages from a car accident. If you were not to blame for the car accident, the other driver might be financially responsible for your injuries.
You can reclaim the following:
- Medical bills such as emergency room bills
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation due to serious injuries
- Pain and suffering
A personal injury lawyer can help you document and demonstrate your head trauma after a vehicle collision. A lawyer may also assist you in developing a claim and defending your right to compensation.
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FAQs
What Can Happen If a Head Injury Goes Untreated?
If a head injury goes untreated, it can cause permanent brain damage that medical care can prevent if received immediately. Exacerbated brain damage may result in cognitive or motor function disability or even death.
Can I Sue a Mechanic Or Auto Repair Shop for Negligence?
Yes, you can sue a mechanic or auto repair shop for negligence. If they were at fault or the reason your car crash occurred, you might have a case against them.
How Does a Medical Doctor Diagnose Head Injuries?
A medical doctor diagnoses head injuries by requesting several tests to examine your head. Before starting, the doctor will typically do a physical examination and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). They'll look for apparent wounds, scrapes, skull fractures, or bleeding.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Attorneys
Traumatic brain injuries caused by car accidents can be complex and perplexing. As accident victims, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, missed income, and pain and suffering if you've got an automobile accident with a head injury.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we understand that traumatic injuries can be difficult and stressful. Our personal injury lawyers are there to guide you through the legal process and will fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation to start your recovery journey.
References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557
- https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/concussion/symptoms.html