Types of Brain Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Automobile crashes are studies in chaos, with no two accidents ever exactly alike. This means that there are many ways that the brain can be injured in just a fraction of a second. A person does not even need to experience a direct impact for a brain injury to happen—the sheer physical forces of a collision can cause the brain to experience trauma without any external contact on the skull at all. In an accident, there are two main types of head injury that can result in a TBI:
- Open head injuries happen when the skull is fractured and something such as glass, metal, or bone fragments causes direct injury to the brain. These are often the most dramatic-looking injuries, as the scalp contains many blood vessels, resulting in the appearance of a lot of blood. All open head injuries are critical emergencies and need to be treated promptly. Not only is there an immediate risk of bleeding and life-threatening swelling of the brain, but the open wound can also lead to a deadly infection.
- Closed head injuries are the most insidious types of injury, and are often considered to be “silent killers.” Symptoms may be immediate, or delayed for hours, days, or longer. There is no penetration of the skull, and there may be no blood at all or just minor surface cuts and scratches. Closed head injuries can happen due to a blunt force impact on the head, such as on the steering wheel, dashboard, or window. Closed head injury can also happen with no impact at all, when the head is shaken or violently twisted at the moment of impact.
No matter what type of head injury has happened or is suspected after an accident, if you think a head injury may have occurred, medical attention is an absolute must. The symptoms of a head injury may not be immediately noticeable to the victim or to onlookers, which is why it is critical to be seen by medical personnel after any suspected head injury or TBI.
Effects of a Traumatic Brain Injury
A traumatic brain injury can be a temporary or lifelong challenge. No matter how long you are dealing with the symptoms of a TBI, a brain injury can have a major impact on your everyday life.
- You may experience emotional challenges, such as mood swings, depression, anxiety or outbursts of anger.
- It may be difficult to concentrate or remember things.
- Your friends and family may not fully understand why you are experiencing these sudden changes, which can be an isolating and frustrating experience.
- People with TBIs may also experience physical limitations such as loss of coordination & balance, slurred speech or persistent headaches.
Our firm understands how challenging these symptoms can be. With everything you are going through, the last thing on your mind should be worrying about how to pay your medical bills or how you will get by if you can’t return to work. When we take on your case, we work hard to minimize your financial pressure through letters of protection, so you can focus on healing.
What You Can Expect When Working with Our TBI Lawyers
Dedication to a Just Result
The Law Office of Kenneth Berger has handled many traumatic brain injury cases in South Carolina and throughout the country. We understand that compensation can’t take back what has happened to you, but we do believe that a rightful settlement can ease your financial stress and allow you to focus on your recovery. We work hard to ensure the at-fault party’s insurance company provides fair and full compensation for the effects of your TBI.
Assistance Finding Qualified Medical Care
Traumatic brain injury cases can be complicated and difficult to litigate. Many TBIs are not detected by an MRI or CT scan, which can make it hard to identify the full scope of your injury. Our firm works diligently to connect you with qualified medical providers who can accurately diagnose you.
Time and Resources Invested in Your Case
We also utilize our experience and knowledge to help insurance adjusters understand the impact your TBI has had on your everyday life. TBI is a leading cause of disability and death in South Carolina, and when someone else caused the injury, they should be held accountable. Our firm is dedicated to negotiating on your behalf. We are prepared to invest the proper resources if your case goes to trial. We spend time gathering detailed evidence, reviewing medical records, and hiring expert consultants to ensure you are properly compensated for every harm and loss a negligent party caused. Every TBI case is different and our firm works hard to make sure your unique needs are met.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a South Carolina Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve suffered a personal injury that was caused by another party’s negligence, The Law Office of Kenneth Berger is here to help. Our experienced South Carolina serious injury legal team understands the impact an accident can have on your life, and our legal team will work hard to win compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
We offer free consultations and would be happy to answer your questions. Contact us online today or call us at 803-790-2800. Our offices are conveniently located in Columbia and Myrtle Beach, and we have been proudly servicing clients throughout the surrounding areas. Contact us online today or call us at 803-790-2800 (Columbia, SC) / 843-427-2800 (Myrtle Beach, SC).