A car accident can leave victims severely injured. One of the most common kinds of injuries car accident victims can suffer is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs are injuries to the head that often occur when a driver or passenger hits their head on a window, steering wheel, dashboard or other hard surface during a collision.
It’s important to know that TBIs are not always noticeable to the person who has suffered one. That’s one reason it’s always important to get a medical evaluation after a crash.
3 types of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild to severe depending on the cause, location and extent of the injury. Here are several common types of TBIs.
- Concussions: While not nearly as severe as other TBIs, concussions are one of the most common kinds of head injuries. A concussion occurs when a person is struck in the head, causing the brain to rapidly move around and release chemicals. Victims can suffer dizziness, sensory issues and memory loss when suffering from a concussion.
- Brain bleeding: A blow to the head can cause the brain to swell and bleed. Brain bleeding can cause permanent damage to brain cells and tissue. If brain bleeding is not treated, it could lead to medical complications and possibly death.
- Skull fracture: If the skull is actually fractured, skull fragments can injure the brain, leading to bleeding. A skull fracture is a serious medical condition that can lead to brain exposure, loss of fluids and traumatic medical complications.
If someone injured in a crash suffers a TBI, it’s important to determine options for seeking compensation to cover medical bills and other expenses and damages. It’s smart to get legal guidance as soon as possible.