A car accident can leave a lasting impact, particularly if it involves a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even in lower-speed collisions, the sudden impact can cause the brain to shift and collide with the skull, leading to various forms of brain damage.
A brain injury from a car accident can be devastating
These injuries are not only physically devastating but can also bring substantial financial and emotional burdens. Victims have the legal right to seek compensation for the extensive care they may require, and working with an experienced car accident lawyer can make all the difference.
For those affected, understanding what happens to the brain after a crash is an important step in recognizing symptoms, planning for treatment, and exploring potential legal options to ensure their rights are protected and the responsible parties are held accountable.
The immediate impact: bruising and bleeding
When a crash occurs, the force can cause the brain to jolt back and forth inside the skull, potentially leading to contusions or bruises. Blood vessels may rupture, resulting in dangerous brain bleeds, such as subdural or epidural hematomas. Left untreated, these conditions can lead to serious complications, including increased pressure on the brain and further damage to delicate brain tissue.
Tearing of brain tissue and nerve Damage
The intense impact of a car accident can also tear nerve fibers within the brain, resulting in diffuse axonal injury (DAI). This tearing disrupts communication between brain cells and can have severe, long-term effects on the brain's ability to function. Victims of DAI may experience significant cognitive challenges, permanent brain damage, or even coma.
Secondary Injury: Swelling and Oxygen Deprivation
Following the initial trauma, the brain can experience secondary injury due to swelling (cerebral edema). As the brain swells, pressure within the skull can increase, reducing blood flow and depriving brain tissue of oxygen. Without prompt treatment, this can result in widespread brain damage. In severe cases, brain surgery is necessary to relieve pressure and minimize damage.
Long-term symptoms and challenges
Brain injuries after car accidents often lead to a range of cognitive, physical, and emotional symptoms. Victims may struggle with memory issues, concentration difficulties, and even personality changes. Symptoms can persist long after the accident, requiring ongoing treatment and support. For many, the road to recovery can be lengthy and challenging.
Delayed symptoms and hidden effects
One of the most challenging aspects of brain injuries after car accidents is that symptoms don't always appear immediately. After the initial impact, victims may feel fine, only to experience worsening symptoms days or even weeks later. Common delayed effects include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and mood changes. This "hidden" nature of traumatic brain injuries can complicate diagnosis and delay the necessary treatment, often resulting in more extensive damage over time.
Because of this, early medical intervention and a thorough evaluation are critical to protecting both your health and your legal rights. For victims, documenting symptoms and seeking prompt legal advice can help ensure they receive the support they need to fully account for the brain injury's impact on their lives. An experienced brain injury lawyer can work with medical experts to document these delayed symptoms, strengthening the case for compensation that reflects the true scope of your injuries.
Why you need legal help after suffering a brain injury in a crash
Injuries to the brain often come with substantial medical expenses, lost income, and long-term care needs. If a car accident caused you or a loved one to suffer a concussion or some other type of TBI, consulting an experienced brain injury lawyer can make a significant difference in your recovery.
At Weinstein Law, attorney Jeff Weinstein and his team, including a dedicated Brain Trauma Specialist, can advocate for you to recover the full compensation you're entitled to under Texas law. We've recovered millions for injured Texans, and we understand what it takes to fight for the compensation our clients deserve. Our legal team will work to establish the cause of your brain injury, navigate the legal process, and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Contact Jeff Weinstein today to learn more about how we can help you through this difficult time. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your potential legal options and get answers from a team that understands the impact of brain injuries on victims and their families. With an office in Athens, TX, we proudly represent crash victims in Henderson County and throughout East Texas.