You were just involved in an auto accident in greater Cleveland. You may or may not have lost consciousness. Perhaps you have recurring headaches. Perhaps you’re unable to remember exactly what happened, or you feel confused and disorientated. You may have sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
TBIs are often caused by auto accidents. They usually occur when:
- A driver or passenger’s head hits a door, a window or the dashboard
- The head moves back and forth or from side to side in a violent motion
- A driver or passenger is struck in a T-bone accident
- A rear-end accident occurs
- A vehicle rolls over
- Debris from the road or another vehicle pierces a window
The car accident attorneys at Merriman Legal, LLC have helped many people who have suffered these types of injuries.
How serious are TBIs?
Unlike many other types of injuries, when you sustain a TBI, some of the damage may be permanent. The neurons and brain tissue never completely regrow, which can result in lifelong complications.
The most common injuries TBIs crash victims sustain include:
- Coup-contrecoup brain injuries: When a severe collision occurs, a crash victim’s brain may hit against the inner lining of the skull on the opposite side of impact. This often results in loss of consciousness and damage to blood vessels and brain tissue.
- Concussions: While concussions are comparatively mild, they can worsen if left untreated. Unlike a coup-contrecoup brain injury, the brain hits the inner lining of the skull on the side of impact.
- Brain contusions: When a crash victim sustains a concussion, a brain contusion can also occur. Bleeding occurs under the skin, and in some cases, may require surgery.
- Diffuse axonal injuries: These TBIs happen the same way as concussions but are more severe.
- Second impact syndrome: If you have already suffered a TBI, you’re at risk of sustaining severe brain damage if you suffer a second TBI before the first has healed.
- Penetrating injuries: This type of TBI is an open head injury often caused by debris or parts of a vehicle.
TBI symptoms often include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Nausea
- Amnesia
- Confusion and disorientation
- Inability to concentrate
- Disrupted sleep
- Changes in mood
- Headaches
- Seizures
Recovering from a TBI after a crash
If you have sustained a TBI in an auto accident, your recovery will likely be lengthy and expensive. The costs of MRIs, CAT scans, medications and rehabilitation can add up. During that time, you may not be able to work and pay your bills.
If you think the insurance companies care whether or not you recover, think again. Even if they offer you a settlement, you may not be fairly compensated for your losses. That’s why you need a highly skilled, compassionate Cleveland auto accident attorney on your side fighting for you every step of the way. To learn how we can help you, contact us for a free consultation.
