Traumatic Brain Injuries from Car Accidents: What You Should Know?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that car accidents are among the leading causes of traumatic brain injury hospitalizations in the United States. These injuries can have life-altering impacts, affecting cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. While some TBIs present immediate symptoms, others develop gradually, making them particularly challenging to identify and treat promptly.

What Is a TBI?

A TBI occurs when a sudden trauma damages the brain. In car accidents, TBIs commonly result from the head striking an object (like a steering wheel or windshield) or when the brain experiences rapid acceleration and deceleration forces, causing it to collide with the interior of the skull. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe injuries that can lead to permanent disability or death.

What Are the Common Symptoms of a TBI?

Recognizing TBI symptoms after a car accident is vital for proper medical intervention. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over days or weeks following the incident.

• Physical symptoms include headaches or migraines that do not subside, dizziness, balance problems, coordination difficulties, nausea or vomiting, fatigue or drowsiness, and blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• Cognitive and emotional symptoms often manifest as memory problems or confusion, difficulty concentrating, mood changes or irritability, depression or anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
• Severe TBI indicators might include unconsciousness, seizures, pupil dilation, clear fluid draining from ears or nose, profound confusion, or slurred speech. These require immediate emergency medical attention.

How Are Traumatic Brain Injuries Diagnosed?

Medical professionals use different methods to diagnose TBIs following car accidents. The process typically begins with a neurological examination to assess motor and sensory skills, nerve function, and cognitive abilities.

Imaging tests also play a key role in diagnosis. CT scans can reveal fractures, bleeding, blood clots, and brain tissue damage. MRIs provide detailed images of the brain tissues and can detect subtle injuries not visible on CT scans. Functional MRIs (fMRIs) may be used to monitor brain activity and recovery.

Neuropsychological testing might also be conducted to evaluate cognitive function, including memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.

How Does a TBI Impact Long-Term Quality of Life?

The long-term effects of a TBI from a car accident can extend far beyond the initial recovery period. Patients may experience persistent cognitive challenges, emotional regulation difficulties, or physical impairments that affect their ability to work or maintain relationships.

Financial burdens often compound these challenges as medical bills accumulate while earning capacity diminishes. Many individuals require home modifications, ongoing therapy, or assistive devices to maintain independence.

Family dynamics frequently shift as loved ones adapt to new caregiving roles and alter relationships with the injured person.

The Cates Law Firm: Belleville Car Accident Lawyers That Are on Your Side

If you or a loved one suffered a TBI in a car accident, time is of the essence. Our Belleville car accident lawyers at The Cates Law Firm work diligently to help TBI survivors receive the compensation they deserve. Call 618-277-3644 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.