Motor vehicle crashes can lead to a variety of injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These injuries can be life-threatening. Those who survives them may experience considerable impacts that might last for the remainder of their life.
If you or someone you love has been in a wreck and is showing any signs of a brain injury, learning about these injuries and how they manifest could make a difference when it comes to recovery.
Symptoms may not show up immediately
The symptoms of a TBI may not show up immediately after the crash. In fact, it’s not uncommon for it to take days or even weeks for a person to realize they have a TBI. Because of this, anyone who’s been in a wreck should be vigilant about watching for signs of a TBI. Some of the more common signs include:
- Cognitive symptoms: Mood swings, trouble with memory, loss of consciousness, feeling dazed, changes in sleep patterns
- Physical symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, balance control challenges
- Sensory symptoms: Ringing in the ears, sensitivity to light or sound, changes in hearing, vision, smell or taste
Other symptoms might also be possible for children or in severe TBIs. These include symptoms like extreme irritability, an inability to wake up, slurred speech, uneven dilation of eyes or seizures.
Complications of TBIs
There are many complications that can stem from a TBI. These range from difficulties with handling daily activities to brain death or coma. Seeking medical attention immediately after the symptoms appear may help to minimize the long-term effects; however, this isn’t always possible.
Victims who suffer a TBI may opt to pursue a compensation claim from a negligent driver and/or other party who caused their harm. This can help to offset the financial aspects of the injury. Taking care of this quickly is imperative because there are time limits built into state law. Working with a legal representative who can handle their case enables a victim to focus on healing as the pursuit of compensation evolves.