Did you know that over 4.5 million people in the United States were seriously injured in auto accidents in 2018? Car and truck accidents claim more than 40, 000 lives each year, too. Truck and car accidents wreck more than vehicles, they can wreck a person’s life.
One of the most insidious and devastating injuries that can develop after an accident are traumatic brain injuries. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) produces debilitating symptoms and can be costly and difficult to treat. If you or a loved one has suffered from a car or truck accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. It’s also important to monitor symptoms as you heal. Any changes in a victim’s cognitive or motor function should be reported to qualified medical professionals as soon as possible.
Causes of Brain Injuries
When passengers and drivers are involved in auto accidents, the impact of the injury can result in head and brain injuries. This is because the force of impact results in violent and abrupt movements, many of which could cause the brain to make forceful contact with the skull.
One common example of unnatural and abrupt movements after an auto accident is “whiplash”. When a vehicle is rear ended, the force of the accident causes a driver or passenger’s head to move backward and forward abruptly. Whiplash is a common injury related to auto accidents that can severely affect the brain, head, and neck.
Passengers and drivers in auto accidents can also develop brain injuries from making contact with dashboards and car windows along with flying debris.
Symptoms of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries are serious and should be monitored and treated by medical personnel. A TBI can vary in severity, too. For example, a mild brain injury could cause blurred vision, disorientation, and headaches while moderate brain injuries might involve symptoms such as memory loss, vision impairment, and intense nausea.
Common symptoms of brain injuries include:
- Seizures
- Changes in mood such as irritability
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Headaches of varying severity
- Confusion
- Fluid coming from the nose or ears
In the most severe cases, a traumatic brain injury could result in permanent changes to a person’s behavior, ability to communicate, and cognitive function.
What to Do After a Car or Truck Accident
If you have been involved in an auto or truck accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel that your injuries are minor, requesting to visit a hospital is a wise idea. Hospital staff are trained to perform diagnostic tests to look for signs of injuries to internal organs and the brain. Conversely, if you notice developing symptoms such as headaches, memory loss, and confusion in the days after your accident, you should call your primary care physician as soon as possible.
Those injured in auto and truck accidents have legal rights to seek compensation for their injuries. Dealing with insurance companies and negligent drivers can be incredibly stressful. Having a personal injury attorney on your side can help protect your rights and ensure that you get the medical attention you deserve.
Our Alexandria, Louisiana-based personal injury attorney fights tirelessly for his clients. Call the Jones Law Firm at (318) 442-1515 to speak with our caring and experienced team.
