.jpg)
Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can have serious and lasting effects on the people who suffer from them. In fact, close to 50,000 people in the U..S. die each year as a result. These injuries are also shockingly common. In the U.S., there are more than two TBIs per minute. People in California should understand that daily occurrences like car accidents cause TBIs with some frequency.
Auto Collisions and Brain Injuries
Car accidents are the biggest single cause of TBI-linked deaths in young people. They represent a serious threat to the health of children, teens and young adults. It’s a big toll on the future of the country. Shockingly, these deaths are not tracked very closely. The statistics aren’t updated even yearly. What’s more, TBIs don’t always present symptoms immediately.
The Mechanics of TBIs
TBIs are difficult to diagnose and treat. The primary injury, or initial impact, can occur when the brain crashes against the skull during an accident. This is one of the most important reasons that anyone involved in a car accident should seek medical help. Internal bleeding isn’t always obvious immediately.
After the impact, there can be secondary effects. The secondary phase of TBIs can involve swelling of the brain. This can actually be more critical than the impact. A swollen brain may reduce oxygen flow throughout the brain. TBIs can also have long-lasting consequences. These can include persistent headaches and changes in mood and behavior.
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to a car accident, it’s wise to seek legal advice. An experienced attorney can help you pursue the driver or manufacturer who is at fault for your injuries. TBIs can mean years of medical bills, and compensation can help defray those costs.