Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe types of injuries that may happen as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Direct trauma, such as hitting your head on the dashboard, or indirect injuries, like whiplash, can cause these injuries to develop.
Symptoms of brain injuries might appear immediately, after several hours or even a few days later. The severity of TBIs can vary greatly, from minor concussions to serious injuries that require constant care and can leave sufferers with permanent disabilities.
Recognizing the signs of a TBI
Victims of auto accidents often struggle to identify symptoms of a traumatic brain injury. Some of the signs that you’ve sustained a TBI include:
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Disorientation
- Memory issues
- Mood swings
- Trouble focusing
Following an accident, you should accept any medical care that the paramedics on the scene offer you. If you don’t call for medical help at the scene, it’s important to be seen right away anyway, as early detection and treatment can help to mitigate the potential negative consequences associated with this condition.
Watch for secondary TBIs
There are times when a motor vehicle accident victim who has been diagnosed with a TBI may experience additional brain injuries in the days and weeks following the accident. These injuries are known as secondary traumatic brain injuries and they can be very dangerous. For example, increased intracranial pressure can result from brain swelling. In addition, a brain bleed or hemorrhage can develop and quickly become a life-or-death situation. As such, the loved ones of a TBI victim should be on the look out for such concerns.
Every TBI is unique, yet many end up being very expensive. Therefore, seeking legal guidance if an injury was caused by another’s negligence is generally a good idea. If you’re facing such circumstances, you may be entitled to significant compensation at this time.