Car Accidents and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can be some of the most problematic injuries suffered in a motor vehicle accident. While scrapes, bruises and even broken bones heal over time, the effects of a TBI can be long-lasting and life-changing.

November 03, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Car Accidents and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can be some of the most problematic injuries suffered in a motor vehicle accident. While scrapes, bruises and even broken bones heal over time, the effects of a TBI can be long-lasting and life-changing.

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Approximately half of all traumatic brain injuries in the United States are caused by motor vehicle accidents.

The injuries occur when sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In car accidents, TBIs generally result from either a direct blow to the head or a deceleration injury. Deceleration injuries occur when an abrupt change in momentum -- such as when a car stops suddenly in a head-on collision -- causes the brain to move around inside the cranial cavity. The brain impacts the skull, which causes bruising, bleeding and swelling. In some cases, the movement may actually cause the brain to tear.

What Are the Implications of a Traumatic Brain Injury?

The symptoms a TBI victim suffers will depend on both the severity of the injury and the area of the brain that was damaged.

People with mild brain injuries usually experience symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, confusion, changes to sensory experiences and mood changes. Although these symptoms are quite uncomfortable, they will usually go away after the brain heals.

Victims of moderate or severe brain injuries experience many of the same symptoms, but with increased intensity and less chance of recovery. They may also suffer more disabling neurological symptoms such as cognitive difficulties, behavior changes, lack of coordination and balance and trouble with bodily functions such as urination and defecation. Further, between 25 percent and 50 percent of patients will develop a seizure disorder.

Some patients may develop neurological problems long after the initial injury. Traumatic brain injuries have been linked to an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and dementia.

What Kind of Treatment Is Available?

Recovery from a moderate or severe brain injury can be a life-long struggle. About half of all patients will need surgery to repair the damaged portions of the brain. Most will need rehabilitative therapy to regain normal functioning.

Treatment for a traumatic brain injury is often very expensive. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in a motor vehicle accident, you'd be wise to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who may be able to help you seek compensation.

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