Some car crash injuries aren’t always immediately visible. Instead, the devastating harm is occurring inside the brain, where symptoms may take days or even weeks to appear fully.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are one of the most serious outcomes of motor vehicle accidents. They often have long-term consequences that affect your health, your ability to work and your ability to maintain relationships.
Why TBIs are so common in car accidents
A TBI occurs when a sudden force disrupts normal brain function. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage involving swelling, bleeding or permanent impairment. And, it’s important to note that even injuries labeled as “mild” can lead to lasting complications.
Vehicle accidents are a leading cause of TBIs. High-speed collisions, rear-end crashes and accidents with tractor-trailers can all generate enough force to injure the brain, even if there is no direct blow to the head.
Many times, due to adrenaline and shock masking the symptoms, victims don’t even realize they’ve suffered a brain injury, leading them to delay treatment until their condition worsens.
A TBI can interfere with how you think, process information and remember things. Over time, victims may experience:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Trouble with decision-making
- Inability to stay organized
These problems can make it difficult to hold a job or handle everyday responsibilities.
TBIs can also alter mood and personality. There may be changes in behavior, such as:
- Depression or anxiety
- Irritibility
- Mood swings
- Reduced impulse control
Such changes can significantly impact the victim’s quality of life and strain their relationships.
Long after the accident, the physical symptoms persist. Living with chronic headaches, dizziness, sensitivity to light and sound and ongoing fatigue can be just as disabling as visible injuries.The effects of a TBI can last a lifetime; therefore, it’s essential to ensure your future needs are fully considered. Insurance companies may try to argue that the injury is minor or unrelated to the crash. The right legal team can gather the medical documentation and expert testimony that will help you seek the compensation that can protect your financial future.