A car accident at even a low rate of speed can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Your head doesn’t even have to strike an object for an injury to occur. If your head is jerked back and forth, your brain can strike your skull, resulting in severe trauma.
Symptoms are not always apparent
TBIs are tricky because they do not always make themselves immediately known. You can go days or even weeks without being aware that you’ve suffered any type of head trauma. You should always seek medical treatment as soon as possible following a motor vehicle accident, even if you feel fine.
Recognizing the symptoms of a brain injury are important. Symptoms of a mild TBI may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
Symptoms of a moderate to severe TBI may include:
- Pupil dilation
- Loss of coordination
- Changes in behavior or personality
- Seizures or convulsions
Left untreated, the impact of a TBI can be life-changing. Changes in mood can affect relationships. Difficulty concentrating can impact a victim’s work or school life. In some cases, an untreated TBI may even prove to be fatal.
Give your car accident the attention it deserves
You should always have a medical examination anytime you’ve been in a car accident. Prompt attention and treatment can provide you with the broadest range of treatment options. You may also have legal options to pursue if the accident was the result of another party’s negligence. If the impact of your injuries is long-lasting, seeking compensation from the other driver can help you to move forward with your life.