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Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the United States. For victims and their families, the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions can be life-altering. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence, The Law Office of David M. Kennedy in Sherman, Texas, is here to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. In this blog, we explain how car accidents lead to TBIs and their lasting impacts.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
A TBI occurs when the brain is damaged by an external force, such as a blow to the head, rapid acceleration and deceleration, or an object penetrating the skull. TBIs range from mild (like concussions) to severe, potentially resulting in permanent cognitive, physical, and psychological impairments.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 223,000 hospitalizations in 2019 were related to TBIs, and car crashes are a significant contributor to these injuries. The CDC also notes that motor vehicle crashes are one of the top three leading causes of TBI-related deaths.
How Do Car Accidents Cause TBIs?
The violent nature of car accidents makes them a common source of brain injuries. Here’s how a crash can lead to a TBI:
- Head Impact: A direct blow to the head, such as striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or side window, can damage brain tissue.
- Whiplash: Even without direct head contact, the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck during a crash can cause the brain to collide with the skull, leading to a condition known as a coup-contrecoup injury.
- Flying Debris: Objects like shattered glass or unsecured items in the vehicle can strike the head, causing a penetrating injury.
- Ejection from the Vehicle: In severe crashes, passengers who are ejected are at a significantly higher risk of suffering catastrophic TBIs.
Types of TBIs from Car Accidents
- Concussions: Often caused by sudden jolts, concussions can lead to headaches, dizziness, and temporary confusion.
- Contusions: These bruises on the brain tissue result from direct impact.
- Diffuse Axonal Injuries: Common in high-speed accidents, these occur when the brain’s connecting nerve fibers are stretched or torn.
- Penetrating Injuries: Caused by objects breaching the skull, these injuries often result in severe and localized brain damage.
Long-Term Impacts of TBIs
The aftermath of a TBI can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but some effects may last a lifetime:
- Cognitive Impairments: Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making are common issues.
- Physical Challenges: Some victims experience chronic headaches, seizures, or paralysis.
- Emotional and Behavioral Changes: TBIs can lead to depression, anxiety, irritability, or personality shifts.
- Financial Strain: Between medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages, the economic impact on a family can be overwhelming. According to the CDC, the total direct and indirect costs of TBI in the U.S. are estimated to be around $76.5 billion annually.
What to Do After a TBI from a Car Accident
If you suspect a TBI following a car accident, seek immediate medical attention—even if symptoms seem mild. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact recovery. After addressing medical needs, consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer like David M. Kennedy to explore your legal options.
Why Choose The Law Office of David M. Kennedy?
Mr. Kennedy has extensive experience helping North Texas residents navigate personal injury claims. His team understands the complexities of TBI cases and fights tirelessly to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
The Law Office of David M. Kennedy has had numerous instances of a client not realizing they suffered a TBI in an accident. It was with the assistance of the David M. Kennedy that the clients were appropriately treated – and just as importantly appropriately diagnosed – ensuring the clients’ cases were developed so as to permit recovery consistent with their injuries. The Firm can often assist the client with obtaining the medical and diagnostic treatments required.
When pursuing a TBI claim, proving the at-fault party’s negligence and demonstrating the full extent of your injuries is essential. Mr. Kennedy works with medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists to build strong cases, ensuring his clients receive the justice they deserve.
Conclusion
Traumatic brain injuries are one of the most devastating consequences of car accidents, leaving victims and their families grappling with long-term challenges. If you or a loved one has experienced a TBI in North Texas, The Law Office of David M. Kennedy can guide you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation necessary for recovery. Contact Us or call us at (903) 819-0720 today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice!
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