Most Common Types of Brain Injuries from Car Accidents

Many people underestimate the force of a car accident until they experience one firsthand. In addition to the property damage, an unexpected jolt to the neck or blow to the head can cause lifelong disabilities or worse.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, car crashes are responsible for more than 14 percent of all brain injuries in the United States. A traumatic brain injury can have one or several symptoms. WebMD reminds readers that it is critical to see a physician if they notice persistent headaches, dizziness or confusion after a wreck.
Treating a brain injury is often exorbitantly expensive. Some patients require multiple surgeries and months of rehabilitation; others can never return to their career or enjoy the lifestyle they had before the accident. This is where an accident lawyer may be able to help.

car accident brain injury

If you were injured by a negligent driver in Illinois, contact Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates. A Chicago injury attorney can evaluate your accident, gather evidence and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf.
Our family has been representing the injured since 1924. If you would like to schedule a free consultation, call 1-800-985-1819. Until then, read on to learn four brain injuries that are common in car accidents:

Concussions

Concussions are more serious than most people realize. They are not always noticeable, and they can happen without an open wound. All it takes is a single, powerful blow to the head to cause a concussion. Whiplash or shaking can also cause a concussion.
Concussions happen when blood vessels stretch inside the brain and damage nerves. Most concussions heal on their own, but they can cause lasting brain damage if symptoms worsen. If you notice prolonged dizziness or disorientation, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Contusions

Contusions are bruises on the brain. They sometimes require surgery.
A strong blow to the head can cause a contusion. In car wrecks, victims often get contusions when they hit their heads on steering wheels, side windows or windshields. In severe cases, surgeons must remove them and look for possible brain damage.

Diffuse Axonal Injuries

Diffuse axonal injuries can be life threatening. They refer to torn nerves and blood vessels within the brain.
Sometimes the impact of a car accident causes neck muscles to tear. This is the result of a powerful and sudden head movement. Any accident that causes the vehicle to come to a sudden stop can rotate the head and lead to a diffuse axonal injury.

Projectile Injuries

Torn metal, broken glass and other objects can stab and slice. If a projectile penetrates the brain, the victim may require immediate surgery to save his or her life.
The surgeon will need to remove the projectile and stop bleeding inside the brain. Rehabilitation is often lengthy, and the damage can be permanent.
If you or a loved one was the victim of a reckless or negligent driver, contact Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates. A Chicago Brain Injury Attorney can investigate the crash and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf.
Our firm has recovered more than $1 billion in settlements, with record-setting jury verdicts. Call 1-800-985-1819 to schedule a free consultation.

Read More:

What Are Signs Of A Brain Injury After A Serious Car Accident?

Depression after a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)