Car crashes are among the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in adults, which can lead to lifelong issues impacting a person’s physical and mental health and ability to work and interact socially. A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force injures the brain, such as in a car crash where sudden acceleration or deceleration can cause the brain to move within the skull, leading to damage.
Understanding the potential implications of a brain injury can help you learn about some changes you may face if you suffer a brain injury.
Seeking appropriate support
Given the potential for lifelong impacts, it’s crucial for individuals who have experienced a TBI in a car crash to seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms don’t appear severe at first. Ongoing medical care may be necessary, including physical and occupational therapy, psychological support and possibly personal care support.
Long-term physical consequences
While some injury victims fully recover from TBIs, others incur long-term or permanent physical problems. These can include headaches, seizures, motor control difficulties or sensory issues that affect vision and/or hearing. Fatigue and sleep disorders are also common, as are problems with balance and coordination.
Cognitive and emotional impacts
TBIs can also lead to cognitive and emotional difficulties that persist or worsen over time. This can include problems with memory, attention and other cognitive functions. Personality changes are possible, as are mood disorders like depression and anxiety. In severe cases, TBIs can significantly change a person’s personality and thinking ability, leading to lifelong cognitive impairment.
Impacts on work and social life
These physical and cognitive issues can significantly impact an individual’s ability to work, particularly in jobs that require physical labor or complex cognitive tasks. Social relationships can also suffer from the direct effects of personality changes or mood disorders and indirectly, as friends and family may struggle to adapt to someone’s new needs and capabilities.
Finally, note that if a TBI victim has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, seeking compensation via a personal injury lawsuit may be appropriate. Compensation can help cover medical bills, lost wages and other damages related to the TBI, which can ease the financial burden associated with long-term care.