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Car Accident Brain Injuries

Brain injuries are some of the most serious injuries in a car accident. The brain is a complex organ and can be very sensitive when impacted by the force of a car crash. A car accident can cause permanent damage to parts of the brain, swelling inside the skull, or cell death from lack of blood supply. 

Permanent damage to the brain can completely alter a person's life. Someone who is happy, active, and pursuing a career before the accident could be left depressed, paralyzed, and requiring around-the-clock care after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). 

Some car accident victims accept the insurance company's settlement check without understanding the long-term costs of their injuries. If you are injured in a car accident, talk to your Denver accident attorney for help getting compensation. 

Causes of Brain Injury in Colorado Car Accidents

There are several common causes of brain injury in car accidents. This includes traumatic injury and non-traumatic causes. Traumatic brain injury generally involves a physical impact to the head. Car crashes are the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries, including: 

There are also non-traumatic causes of brain injury in car accidents. This is usually related to lack of blood flow or lack of oxygen. If the injury victim is suffering severe blood loss, it can impact brain function. Lack of oxygen for more than a few minutes can also begin to cause brain damage. 

Others can also be injured in a car accident, including bicyclists, motorcycle riders, and pedestrians. It is much easier for a non-occupant to suffer a head injury compared to a driver or passenger in a vehicle with safety features, like airbags. 

Minor Accidents Can Cause Major Brain Damage

Many accident victims don't want to get checked out at the hospital because they don't think the accident was that serious. Unfortunately, a lot of people avoid getting emergency care because they are worried about the cost of a hospital visit. However, it is important to understand that even minor accidents can cause serious injury. 

The impact to the head can be caused by whiplash against the headrest, knocking the head against the side window or dash, or even from the force of the impact. This can cause damage inside the skull that the victim does not see or recognize as a serious injury. If there was a chance of loss of consciousness, concussion, or head trauma, get it checked out. Early evaluations can improve your chances of avoiding permanent damage. 

TBI Medical Treatment 

Diagnosing brain injuries can be complicated, especially if the signs and symptoms of an injury are not immediately felt. Symptoms may include: 

  • Headache
  • Blurry vision
  • Difficulty remembering
  • Delayed response
  • Mood swings
  • Sleeping problems
  • Feeling tired
  • Nausea or vomiting

There are a number of tools to diagnose brain injury, including MRIs and brain scans. One of the standard neurological measuring tools is the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). The GCS score can help doctors evaluate brain injury, through testing: 

  • Eye response
  • Verbal response
  • Motor response

Treatment depends on a number of factors, including the extent of the injury, if there is other trauma, and the overall health of the patient. Some brain injuries can be treated with the patient returning to the pre-accident state. Other brain injuries may cause permanent damage, and require continuing therapy, adaptive training, or medical assistance. 

Personal Injury Claims For Vehicle Crash Injuries

If another driver was at fault for your injuries, the other driver should have to pay the price for what they did. Unfortunately, the other driver's insurance company may have no interest in helping you recover from a serious accident. This is where a personal injury lawsuit can make a big difference. 

A personal injury claim is a civil lawsuit for damages caused by negligence. The negligent driver can be held responsible for any injury or damage caused by their actions. This includes recovering damages for the injury victim. Damages in an auto accident claim can include: 

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of income potential
  • Future medical care
  • Pain and suffering

Getting compensation for a personal injury lawsuit does not have to take years or even go to trial. After filing a complaint, your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to increase your settlement or fight to get you what you deserve. Ultimately, it is up to you, the client, whether or not you are happy with the settlement offer

Accident Denver Attorneys

If you were injured in a car accident and suffered a head injury, get the help you need to give you the best chance for recovery. If you need help dealing with the insurance company, our experienced Colorado auto accident attorneys will fight to get the maximum compensation available for your injuries. Do not accept a partial settlement offer before understanding your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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