Car Accident Injuries: TBI Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are a serious and often overlooked consequence of car accidents. With the complex interplay of vehicular speed, impact, and human physiology, the aftermath can lead to life-altering conditions.

Maryland is no stranger to the nationwide problem of car accidents leading to severe injuries, particularly traumatic brain injuries. The data is striking; according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 69,000 injury deaths in 2021 were attributed to TBIs. This statistic becomes even more poignant when considering that a significant number of these cases emanate from motor vehicle accidents.

Traumatic Brain Injury From a Car Accident

Traumatic brain injuries usually occur from a sudden jolt or blow to the head. But what does that mean in the context of a car accident? Imagine you’re driving at 55 miles per hour and suddenly have to brake due to an obstacle or another vehicle. The abrupt stop can cause your head to whip forward and back, even if it doesn’t physically impact any part of the car. This rapid movement can cause the brain to collide with the interior walls of the skull, resulting in injury.

Alternatively, direct impacts — such as your head hitting the steering wheel or window — are equally perilous. These direct collisions are often more severe and lead to immediate symptoms, such as loss of consciousness or disorientation. The severity of TBI varies greatly, from mild conditions like concussions to severe cases that can lead to long-lasting impairments affecting motor skills, cognitive function, and even emotional well-being.

Signs and Symptoms of TBIs

TBIs can manifest in various ways, making it imperative to recognize the signs and symptoms as quickly as possible for appropriate medical treatment. Here’s a closer look at some common symptoms:

• Loss of Consciousness: Even a brief loss of consciousness can indicate a serious brain injury. It’s a clear signal that the brain has been impacted in a way that disrupts its normal functioning.
• Persistent Headaches: A constant headache that doesn’t dissipate could be a sign of a TBI. Often, these are not ordinary headaches but are more severe and continuous.
• Confusion and Disorientation: Feelings of confusion or disorientation can occur immediately or even days after the accident. This is not to be taken lightly, as it can indicate a disruption in cognitive functioning.
• Speech Difficulties: Slurred speech or difficulty in forming sentences can be another red flag. Problems with speech can signal damage to the parts of the brain responsible for language and communication.
• Memory Loss: Difficulty in recalling events that happened shortly before or after the accident can be a sign of a TBI. Memory issues can have long-term implications and need immediate attention.

If any of these symptoms are observed following a car accident, immediate medical evaluation is essential. Accurate diagnosis is also vital when filing for personal injury claims, as it forms the basis of your case for compensation.

Legal Compensation for a TBI After a Car Accident

Determining the appropriate amount of compensation for a traumatic brain injury is a nuanced and multifaceted process that varies considerably based on several factors.

First, the severity of the injury plays a significant role; mild TBIs may necessitate less extensive medical care compared to more severe cases, affecting the total amount of compensation.

Secondly, if the injury has impacted your ability to work, both lost wages and future earning capacity become critical components of the settlement. Medical expenses, including past and future costs for treatments such as surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, are also substantial factors that must be accounted for in the settlement.

Lastly, emotional distress, though more challenging to quantify, is another vital component that contributes to the overall compensation figure. Given these complexities, it is crucial to consult an experienced Baltimore personal injury attorney

Whether it is medical intervention or legal recourse, time is of the essence. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim for a TBI is 3 years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to compensation, making it crucial to act promptly. The Law Offices of Kim Parker, P.A., is dedicated to providing superior legal services to TBI victims in Maryland. Contact us today for a consultation.