When you’re in a car wreck, your whole world can get turned upside-down in an instant. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and shaken up after a collision. If your car accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury, however, it may feel like your world will never turn right-side-up again.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, TBIs are the leading cause of disability in people under the age of 40; severely disabling 150-200 million people a year. Although most are able to recover within two years, victims of these injuries could sustain physical, mental, and financial struggles for the rest of their lives.
When recovering from a brain injury, neurovascular coupling pathways in the brain will either return to normal or continue to malfunction. If these pathways fail to revert to their normal functions, long-term TBI symptoms can occur.
Signs You May Have Endured a Traumatic Brain Injury
All brain injuries are serious and need to be diagnosed by a medical professional. It’s important to be checked out immediately after a car accident for any signs of a TBI. Even a mild traumatic brain injury, also known as a concussion, can have lasting effects on a victim. Keep an eye on car accident victims for any signs of a TBI, including:
- Persistent headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures
- Loss of balance
- Dilation of pupil(s)
- Clear fluid draining from nose or ears
- Numbness in extremities
- Loss of consciousness for any length of time
- Loss of coordination
- Unusual behavior
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
Symptoms of a brain injury could show up immediately after a wreck or weeks later. If you see any of these signs show up after an accident, seek medical care immediately. Your health is priority.
Problems a TBI Could Cause Later in Life
After sustaining a serious head injury, your brain will immediately start working to repair the damaged tissue. While most of these restorative processes are highly effective, some parts of the brain may not be able to be repaired, resulting in a progressive decline or life-long damage. Some ongoing issues you could experience after a TBI include:
- Depression
- Migraines
- Dizziness
- Aggression
- Light and noise sensitivity
- Fatigue
- Seizures
- Visual impairment
- Increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases
- Difficulty sleeping
- Anxiety
- Trouble with time management
Brain injuries can also have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. TBIs can hinder one’s ability to remain employed, sustain social relationships, and even stay alive. Unfortunately, people with a moderate to severe TBI have an increased risk for suicide and other complications that could ultimately lead to their death. Research has shown that rates of suicidal ideation affect over 20% of TBI sufferers.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 50% of people with a TBI will experience additional decline in their daily lives despite initial hospitalization and rehabilitation with about 22% of them dying within 5 years of their initial injury. Outcomes were not ideal for those who lived longer than 5 years, with more than half of them living with moderate to severe disabilities. Overall, it is said that suffering from a traumatic brain injury can shorten a person’s lifespan by about 9 years.
It’s important to note that the specific laws and regulations regarding brain injury cases may vary depending on your jurisdiction. Therefore, consulting with Sacramento TBI lawyer, about the laws in your area is crucial to ensure your legal rights are protected.
Protect Yourself after a California Car Crash with a Skilled Brain Injury Attorney
You can never truly prepare yourself for the emotional and physical trauma that can follow a traumatic brain injury. That’s why the Law Offices of JG Winter are here to help you overcome your struggles. If you or a loved one have suffered a traumatic brain injury due to the negligent driving of another, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages.
Attorney Jeremy G. Winter cares because he’s been there. If you’re experiencing a tragedy, he’s here to listen and fight for justice when you’re ready. Call 844-734-2626 or complete an online contact form today to schedule your free legal consultation. If we take your case, you will not pay us a penny until we have won.
