Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an extremely serious condition that can cause permanent disability or even death, and car accidents are a common cause of this problem.
About 20% of all TBI cases are caused by car accidents, with only slips and falls causing a higher percentage of brain trauma.
Even a minor accident could cause TBI, which is why it’s important to see a doctor after any car accident. How can you know if you or a loved one may have experienced TBI after a Missouri car accident?
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to any injury to the brain caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, which may disrupt the proper functioning of the brain.
This is an umbrella term used to refer to many different types of injuries, which can be mild (such as concussions), or result in serious problems like hematoma (burst blood vessels in the brain).
TBI may not have any external signs, so it can sometimes be overlooked after a car accident. However, even a minor blow to the head can cause TBI, in some cases, so we always recommend that you seek medical attention after an accident.
Common Signs of TBI After a Car Accident
It’s important to know how to recognize some common signs of TBI that may occur after a car accident. TBI symptoms are not always readily apparent after an accident. Depending on the severity of the injury, symptoms of minor-to-moderate TBI may include:
- Loss of consciousness for several seconds or minutes
- Confusion and disorientation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness and balance issues
- Problems concentrating or with memory
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
- Speech problems like slurring of words
More serious TBI may have symptoms like seizures or convulsions, dilation of the eyes, loss of coordination, profound confusion, and unusual behavior like aggressiveness.
It’s absolutely essential to see a doctor right away, especially if you recognize these symptoms of TBI in anyone who has been in a car accident.
Have You or a Loved One Suffered TBI in a Car Accident?
Severe TBI can be debilitating and life-changing for you or a loved one. It can cause long-term complications and interfere with your ability to work and live your day-to-day life.
If you or a loved one has experienced TBI, or even if a loved one has died due to TBI from a car accident, you may be able to get compensation with the help of a St. Louis car accident lawyer.
Your auto accident attorney in St. Louis can explain your options and help you get the money you need to compensate you for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost income, and much more. Discuss the details of your case with an experienced attorney ASAP.