Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the United States. Even a seemingly minor collision can cause significant harm to the brain, sometimes with symptoms that do not appear right away. Because the brain controls every part of the body, any injury to it can have lasting effects.
If you have been involved in a car crash, it’s important to understand the different types of brain injuries that can occur, their symptoms, and why prompt medical care is so critical.
Concussions
A concussion is the most common type of brain injury from car accidents. It happens when the brain moves rapidly back and forth inside the skull, often due to sudden impact or whiplash. This motion can stretch and damage brain cells, affecting how the brain functions. Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Temporary loss of consciousness
While some concussions resolve with rest and time, others can lead to complications such as post concussion syndrome, where symptoms persist for weeks or months. Any suspected concussion should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Contusions
A brain contusion is essentially a bruise on the brain tissue caused by a direct blow to the head. In car accidents, this often occurs when the head strikes a steering wheel, dashboard, or window. Mild contusions may heal on their own, but severe ones can cause dangerous swelling or bleeding in the brain. This can lead to increased intracranial pressure, which may require surgery to relieve. Signs of a serious contusion include:
- Persistent headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty speaking
- Changes in vision
- Weakness or numbness in the limbs
Diffuse Axonal Injuries
A diffuse axonal injury (DAI) happens when the brain’s nerve fibers are torn due to violent shaking. This type of injury often occurs in high-speed or rollover accidents, where the head moves forcefully in multiple directions.
DAIs are particularly dangerous because they disrupt communication between different parts of the brain. They can range from mild to severe, with the most extreme cases leading to coma or death. Even mild DAIs can cause lasting cognitive and emotional challenges.
Penetrating Brain Injuries
Not all brain injuries in car accidents result from blunt force trauma. In severe crashes, debris, glass, or metal fragments can penetrate the skull and damage brain tissue. These injuries are medical emergencies that require immediate surgery to remove foreign objects and control bleeding. Survivors of penetrating brain injuries often face long-term rehabilitation to regain physical and cognitive function.
Coup-Contrecoup Injuries
A coup-contrecoup injury occurs when the brain is injured on both sides, first at the site of impact and then on the opposite side as the brain rebounds inside the skull.
These injuries are common in high-impact accidents and can cause widespread brain damage. Symptoms often include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in personality or mood. Because two areas of the brain are affected, recovery can be more complex.
Why Immediate Medical Care Matters
Brain injuries are not always obvious right after a car accident. You might feel fine at first, only to develop symptoms hours or days later. That’s why it’s important to seek medical attention immediately after a crash, even if you think you’re unhurt.
Prompt diagnosis through imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs can help doctors identify injuries early, reducing the risk of complications. Early treatment—whether rest, medication, or surgery—can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes.
Life After a Brain Injury
Recovering from a brain injury can take weeks, months or even years. Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and counseling. Some people experience a full recovery, while others live with lasting effects such as memory problems, mood changes or physical limitations.
If another driver’s negligence caused your brain injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the claims process.
Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy Can Fight For You
Brain injuries from car accidents range from mild concussions to life-threatening trauma. Understanding the different types of brain injuries and their potential impact can be an important first step to getting justice. If you or a loved one is living with a traumatic brain injury as a result of a car accident, contact us as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
