Traffic accidents often result in traumatic brain injury. Learn more.

Traffic accidents often result in blows to the head. When a blow or a jolt to the head disrupts brain function, it is called a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Over 1.4 million Americans experience a TBI each year. Fifty thousand of them die, 235,000 are hospitalized and 1.1 million are treated in the emergency room and then released. Two percent of the U.S. population (5.3 million Americans) needs help with daily activities because of a long-term or lifelong TBI.

Car and truck wrecks are responsible for 20% of TBIs. The effects of TBI can range from mild to severe depending on the injury. An accident victim may recover quickly or may suffer long-term disabilities that effect his employment and quality of life.

It is very important that those with brain injuries seek medical help. Even if a moderate brain injury is left untreated, it may lead to irreversible brain damage.

General symptoms of brain injury include:

• Loss of consciousness (this may last just a minute or days)

• The victim has no memory of sustaining the injury

• Headache

• Confusion

• Sensory changes such as blurred vision, strange smells, funny tastes

• Speech problems

• Mood changes

• Memory problems

• Dizziness, nausea or vertigo

These are only a few of the many possible symptoms that may be experienced by a person with TBI. The symptoms will vary depending of the severity of the injury and the region of the brain that was injured. TBI may affect the victim’s personality and all parts of the body. Symptoms may not show up for months after the accident, so any unusual behavior or new symptoms that appear in the months following an accident should be checked out by a medical doctor. In addition, because of the symptoms, the injured person may not be able to describe what he is experiencing.

TBI’s can be costly. Victims may incur doctor and hospital bills and on-going rehabilitation costs. Insurance is supposed to compensate the medical costs of those who are injured in car accidents; however, many insurance companies will do everything they can to limit the amount of damages they have to pay. Hiring a lawyer who specializes in Texas car accidents is the best way to make sure that you get all the compensation that you are entitled to.

If you or someone you love has sustained a TBI in an accident caused by the negligence of another driver, contact the Cowen Law Group at 866-938-6113. We can help you get compensation for your medical costs, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, loss of income and other damages. Schedule a free consultation to learn more.