People who are involved in motor vehicle crashes can suffer a host of injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. These injuries are classified as mild, moderate or severe. Even with mild TBIs, the effects can be serious.
There are a few things that you should remember about TBIs. This information could come in handy if you’re dealing with one or if you’re ever at risk of one.
1. Symptoms can show up later
The symptoms of a TBI may not be evident right away. It can take days and sometimes weeks for symptoms to manifest. This is particularly common when there’s a slow bleed on the brain because effects occur only when there is accumulation of blood on the brain.
A headache is one of the most common symptoms of a TBI. Sensory changes, including vision and hearing changes, are possible. Some people experience mood swings and changes in their sleep habits, loss of consciousness, falling into a coma, etc.
2. No direct hit is necessary
There doesn’t have to be a direct hit to your head for you to suffer a TBI. The way your head flings back and forth or side to side at the time of impact can cause the brain to slam against the skull. This may cause a contrecoup injury, which means there’s damage to the exact opposite sides of the brain.
3. Overall effects vary greatly
The effects of a TBI vary from one person to another. The way it affects a person depends on the location and severity of the injury. In some cases, the effects of a TBI are manageable because of time and the medical care a patient may receive.
Suffering a TBI in car crash is a life-changing event. When it’s the result of another person’s negligence, the victim can opt to seek compensation. This can help them to recover the cost of medical care and missed wages as well as other losses. Working with someone who’s familiar with personal injury matters can help victims to achieve this aim efficiently and effectively.