Signs of Brain Damage After a Car Accident

Car accidents often lead to serious injuries, with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) being among the most severe. These injuries occur when the brain experiences rapid movement within the skull, often as a result of sudden stops or impacts, like those in a crash. Such movement can cause the brain to collide against the inside of the skull, leading to bruising, tearing of blood vessels, and damage to brain tissue.

Brain injuries can be classified into two primary types: closed head injuries and open head injuries. Closed head injuries involve internal brain damage due to rapid movement, while open head injuries occur when an object (such as debris) penetrates the skull and directly damages brain tissue. Both types of injuries can drastically impact a person’s quality of life, affecting their ability to work, communicate, and enjoy daily activities. Recognizing the symptoms of brain damage is crucial for early intervention and recovery.

How Common Are TBIs in Car Accidents?

According to data from the CDC, motor vehicle accidents account for nearly 25% of TBI-related hospitalizations each year. However, these figures may underestimate the true impact since they don’t include cases treated in emergency rooms or other medical facilities outside hospitals.

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

Brain injuries can vary in severity, from mild to severe, and symptoms may appear immediately or days after the incident. Understanding these signs can help identify when medical attention is necessary, even if the injuries initially seem minor.

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Symptoms

Mild TBIs, often referred to as concussions, may cause various physical and psychological symptoms, including:

• Headache and dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and drowsiness
• Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses
• Changes in speech or balance
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Changes in vision, taste, or smell
• Mood changes, such as anxiety or depression
• Sleep disturbances, like trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively

In some cases, those with mild TBI may experience a brief loss of consciousness or a dazed state, while others remain fully conscious but feel confused or disoriented.

Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms

Moderate to severe TBIs may result in prolonged unconsciousness and more serious symptoms, such as:

• Persistent or worsening headaches
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Seizures or convulsions
• Pupil dilation (particularly in one eye)
• Clear fluid draining from the ears or nose
• Difficulty waking up
• Numbness or weakness in fingers and toes
• Slurred speech or extreme confusion
• Agitation or unusual behavior changes
• Coma or other consciousness disorders

Severe TBIs require immediate medical intervention to prevent further damage, as they can lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.

What to Do if You Suspect Brain Injury

If you or someone you know exhibits any of these symptoms after a car accident, it is vital to seek medical help as soon as possible. Medical professionals often use the Glasgow Coma Scale, a 15-point test, to assess the severity of brain injuries. Additional tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, may be conducted to determine the extent of brain damage.

Seeking prompt medical treatment not only improves the chances of recovery but also helps document the injury, which can be critical for any future legal claims related to the accident.

Managing Life After a Brain Injury

The path to recovery from a TBI depends on the severity of the injury. Mild TBIs may not require intensive treatment, but rest and monitoring are essential to ensure symptoms don’t worsen. Severe TBIs, on the other hand, often require extensive hospital care, including measures to manage swelling, prevent seizures, and maintain oxygen levels to the brain.

Long-term rehabilitation may involve physical, cognitive, and occupational therapy to help the injured individual regain basic functions and adapt to any lasting impairments. Brain injuries affect every aspect of a person’s life, and support from loved ones, professional rehabilitation, and peer groups can be crucial during this recovery journey.

Get Legal Help if You’ve Suffered a Brain Injury in a Car Accident

Recovering from a traumatic brain injury can be a lengthy and challenging process. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and the emotional toll can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has experienced a TBI due to a car accident, consulting a knowledgeable attorney can help you explore your legal options for compensation.

For personalized guidance and support, contact Oshan & Associates at (206) 335-3880 to discuss your case and understand how we can assist you in seeking the compensation you deserve.

---

Also in Car Accidents