Common Brain Injuries from Car Accidents

Of all the different types of injuries suffered in car accidents, brain injuries are some of the most severe. Brain injuries typically require long recovery times and extensive medical treatment. They also have long-term effects such as memory issues, personality changes, social difficulties, and more.

It is important to understand the signs of brain injury after a car accident and to seek prompt medical attention. This can help when trying to obtain compensation in the future. Below, our Summerville car accident lawyer outlines the most common types of brain injuries from car accidents.

Concussions

Concussions are some of the most common brain injuries from car accidents. They are caused by a direct blow to the head, such as banging your head on the dashboard, or even an impact with an airbag. The blow causes the brain to bounce inside the skull. Many people think these injuries are minor, but studies have shown the long-term consequences of concussions.

Accident victims who suffer a concussion during a crash must make their recovery a priority. This can include medical monitoring, rest, and ensuring they have sufficient resources to cover the costs, such as rehabilitation, diagnostic imaging, and required follow-up treatment. Failing to properly treat a concussion puts victims at much greater risk of suffering complications in the future.

Contusions

The term ‘contusion’ refers to a bruise on the brain, which causes structural damage to the brain.

Contusions can be fairly mild or they can be very serious. Contusions are often caused by the brain striking the skull during a crash, usually due to acceleration or deceleration.

If a doctor suspects a contusion, they will order diagnostic tests to evaluate the severity and location of it. Depending on the size of the contusion and how much it has progressed, treatment can include simple rest and monitoring of the injury, or surgery may be necessary. Prompt diagnosis is critical to minimize future complications and encourage recovery.

Coup-Contrecoup Injuries

A coup-contrecoup injury refers to contusions that appear on opposite sides of the brain. These injuries occur when the brain experiences a quick change in momentum. They are most often seen in serious side-impact, head-on, or rear-end accidents. The first contusion is known as the coup, and it appears at the initial point of contact. When the brain bounces back, another contusion develops on the opposite side.

Coup-contrecoup injuries impact different areas of the brain, and so, they present a number of symptoms. Accurate imaging and prompt medical treatment are important to address possible complications, such as bleeding or swelling, and to help injured individuals recover as much function as possible.

Diffuse Axonal Injuries

Diffuse axonal injuries are usually caused by fierce back-and-forth forces impacting the brain during a crash. The axons are thin connections that send signals between brain cells. If they shear or tear, it is a diffuse axonal injury and can cause widespread brain damage.

Diffuse axonal injuries are very serious. They can change the life of an accident victim forever, and they can even be fatal. Minor types of these injuries can partially recover over time, but injuries that are more serious can result in long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. Rehabilitation and early intervention play an important role and can improve outcomes for accident victims.

Hematomas

The term ‘hematoma’ refers to a blood clot. There are three types of hematomas, with the first being intracerebral hematomas, which develop within the brain tissue. An epidural hematoma forms outside of the brain, between the dura mater and the skull. The third type of hematoma is known as subdural, and these develop under the dura mater, between the outer covering of the brain and the brain itself.

Any type of hematoma can have serious risks. Urgent medical intervention is often required, including surgery. The pressure a hematoma places on the brain must be relieved to prevent complications that can be life-threatening. Early detection and treatment is required to minimize long-term complications.

Hemorrhages

Hemorrhages are a traumatic brain injury that occurs when there is bleeding in or around the brain.

As with hematomas, surgery is often needed to repair hemorrhages. Early detection is critical to reduce the risk of long-term damage and life-threatening risks. Given the serious nature of a hemorrhage in the brain, imaging is critical when evaluating the extent of bleeding and determining the next steps in treatment.

Anoxic and Hypoxic Brain Injuries

Anoxic and hypoxic brain injuries happen when the brain is deprived of oxygen, either partially or completely. This can cause serious damage to the brain cells. These injuries are not always as obvious as other brain injuries, such as a penetrating injury, but they are just as life-threatening. If they are not treated right away, it can lead to chronic neurological complications.

Signs of Brain Injury After a Car Accident

Brain injuries are not always as apparent as other types of injuries, such as a broken bone. As such, it is important for all car accident victims to understand the signs of brain injury after a car accident. The most common of these are as follows:

• Loss of consciousness, even for just a few seconds
• Confusion or disorientation
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Blurred or double vision
• Seizures or convulsions
• Unequal pupil size
• Clear fluid draining from the ears or nose
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
• Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes or irritability
• Sensitivity to sound or light
• Ringing in the ears
• Balance problems
• Cognitive fatigue

Many brain injuries, including concussions, also do not present symptoms right away. Due to this, it is critical to seek medical treatment after any car accident. A doctor will know the signs to look for and provide the prompt medical treatment these injuries need.

Our Car Accident Lawyer in Summerville Can Help After an Injury

Brain injuries are very common after car accidents. Unfortunately, they are also very common. At Trey Harrell, our Summerville car accident lawyer can help you obtain the compensation you need for your medical expenses and more after a crash. Call us now at 843-636-8739 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Remember, Trey Helps!