Are You Suffering Head Trauma From a Car Accident? Know the Signs of TBIs

Ever been in a car accident and brushed it off with a “thank goodness it wasn’t worse”?  While that’s a natural reaction, a hidden danger might be lurking – head trauma from a car accident.  Did you know that car accidents are one of the leading causes of TBIs (traumatic brain injury) in adults? Even a seemingly minor bump to the head can result in a TBI, leaving lasting consequences. In this blog, an experienced Jupiter personal injury lawyer from Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers explains how to recognize the signs of TBI and why seeking medical attention is crucial.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

A TBI is any injury that disrupts the normal function of your brain. This can happen from a blow to the head, or even from something penetrating the skull. TBIs can range from mild (concussions) to moderate and severe, depending on the severity of the impact and the area of the brain affected.

How Does a TBI Occur?

The severity of a TBI can vary depending on the force of the impact.

• Mild TBI: May temporarily affect brain cells, often causing short-term symptoms
• Moderate-Severe TBI: Can result in bruising, torn tissues, bleeding, and other physical damage to the brain, potentially leading to long-term complications or even death

Symptoms of TBI

A TBI’s effects can be wide-ranging, impacting both physical and psychological aspects. Symptoms can appear immediately after the accident or take days or weeks to develop.

Symptoms of a Mild TBI

• Physical: Headache, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, speech difficulties, dizziness or balance problems.
• Sensory: Blurred vision, ringing in the ears, unusual taste sensations, changes in smell, sensitivity to light or sound.
• Cognitive, Behavioral, or Mental: Brief loss of consciousness (seconds to minutes), confusion or disorientation (without losing consciousness), memory or concentration problems, mood swings or feeling depressed or anxious, difficulty sleeping (either too much or too little).

Symptoms of a Moderate to Severe TBI

These symptoms may appear within hours or days of the accident, in addition to those listed for mild TBI:

• Physical: Loss of consciousness (minutes to hours), worsening or persistent headache, repeated vomiting or nausea, seizures, dilated pupils, clear fluids draining from the nose or ears, inability to awaken from sleep, weakness or numbness in limbs, loss of coordination.
• Cognitive or Mental: Extreme confusion, agitation, combativeness, or unusual behavior, slurred speech.
• Coma and Other Disorders of Consciousness

Spotting Signs in Children

Infants and young children may not be able to communicate symptoms like headaches or confusion. Here’s what to watch for:

• Changes in eating or nursing habits
• Unusual irritability or persistent crying
• Difficulty focusing or paying attention
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Seizures
• Low mood or sadness
• Excessive sleepiness
• Loss of interest in favorite activities

Why Seeking Medical Help is Essential

After a car accident, especially one that involves a blow to the head, seeking medical attention is crucial, even if you don’t experience any immediate symptoms. Here’s why:

• Hidden Injuries: TBIs can be tricky. Sometimes, especially with mild TBIs, symptoms may not appear for days or even weeks. A medical professional can perform a thorough evaluation to identify any underlying injuries and ensure you receive proper treatment.
• Accurate Diagnosis: Early and accurate diagnosis is key to a good recovery from a TBI. A doctor can assess the severity of your injury and develop a personalized treatment plan. This might involve medication, physical therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, or other interventions.
• Preventing Complications: Left untreated, even a mild TBI can lead to serious complications down the road. These can include headaches, dizziness, memory problems, sleep issues, and even depression. Prompt medical attention can help prevent these complications and improve your long-term health.
• Documentation: Seeking medical care after a car accident creates a documented record of your injury. This documentation can be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action in the future.

Remember, when it comes to head injuries, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. A quick medical checkup could give you peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need for a full recovery.

Legal Help After a TBI

A TBI can have a devastating financial impact. Medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care –  physical therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and potential medications – can quickly drain your resources. If your car accident  was caused by another driver’s negligence, such as speeding, reckless driving, or driving under the influence, you might be entitled to compensation for these expenses.

Here’s how a car accidents lawyer experienced in personal injury claims can be a valuable asset during your recovery:

Understanding Your Legal Rights

In the aftermath of a TBI, legal matters can feel overwhelming.  An attorney can explain your legal options in clear terms and guide you through the personal injury claim process.

Gathering Evidence

Building a strong case requires evidence to prove the other driver’s negligence caused your accident and TBI.  Your lawyer will gather police reports, witness statements, medical records, and other relevant documentation.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies after a TBI can be stressful.  An attorney with experience negotiating personal injury claims can advocate for maximum compensation, ensuring you’re not shortchanged.

Managing Medical Bills

Your lawyer can work with medical providers to ensure your bills are fair and accurate.  They can also help navigate the complexities of medical liens and ensure your future medical needs are considered in the settlement.

Peace of Mind During Recovery

Focusing on your physical and cognitive rehabilitation is crucial after a TBI.  An attorney can handle the legal legwork, allowing you to concentrate on healing.

Remember, this consultation with a personal injury lawyer should occur after you’ve received medical attention and begun your recovery process.  The initial focus should always be on your health and well-being. However, a lawyer can be a powerful ally in securing compensation for your injuries so you can move forward after a life-altering event like a TBI.

Injured in a Car Accident with Head Trauma? Get Help Now

Have you or a loved one suffered head trauma from a car accident due to someone else’s negligence?  Don’t wait to get the information and support you need.  If you’ve been searching online for “car accident lawyers near me,” schedule a free consultation with Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers instead. The team, led by Board Certified Trial Lawyer Daniel Britto, and Michael S. Herman, Jr., Esq., Founding Partners and Shareholders, has over 25 years of combined experience navigating complex personal injury claims. Our firm has earned multiple verdicts in favor of injured clients.  Let us do the same for you.

For your convenience, we are available 24/7, offer free virtual case evaluations, and streamlined, paperless sign-ups. Our aim is to simplify your legal journey and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Contact Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers at (561) 835-5555 or fill out our online form for a free case review with a Jupiter personal injury attorney.

Copyright © 2024. Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers
1001 W Indiantown Rd., Suite 101
Jupiter, FL 33458
(561) 835-5555
https://www.brittoherman.com/