More and more is being learned and understood about brain injuries as they are being discussed in the media and elsewhere more frequently. Individuals familiar with the discussion surrounding traumatic brain injuries may wonder how they are occur. Greater than half of all reported brain injuries are attributed to car accidents. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur when a force penetrates or fractures the skull of the victim. Traumatic brain injuries can also occur, however, following a closed head injury when the skull is neither penetrated nor fractured.
Victims are susceptible to traumatic brain injuries resulting from car accidents. TBIs can occur when the victim’s head strikes the steering wheel or a windshield, for instance. A TBI can also occur due to the sheer force of the accident and the trauma that results when the brain collides with the hard surface of the skull. Brain injuries may not be visible at the time of the car accident which is why it is important that car accident victims and their families are as alert as possible for potential symptoms of brain injuries following a car accident.
Car accidents can result in debilitating injuries such as traumatic brain injuries which can severely impact the victim’s way of life, daily living and habits. Car accident victims who have suffered a traumatic brain injury may face cognitive, emotional, physical and financial challenges associated with the harm they have suffered. Once considered simple, daily tasks can become a challenge that impacts both the victim and the victim’s family members.
Important legal resources are available to victims of car accident brain injuries to help ensure they are able to afford and receive the medical treatment they need and to help improve the victim’s quality of life and future to the extent possible. In the wake of an unexpected car accident and traumatic brain injury, it is important for victims and their family members to be aware of the resources ready and waiting to help them.
Source: Findlaw, “Brain Injury,” Accessed Nov. 2, 2015