Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Causes, Symptoms & Legal Help

A TBI is caused by a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts normal brain function. Not every blow or jolt to the head causes a TBI, and most that do occur are mild — what’s commonly called a concussion. According to the CDC’s TBI data, falls account for nearly half of all TBI hospitalizations, with motor vehicle crashes the second leading cause. Other common causes include sports injuries (especially football and soccer), violence, and combat-related blast injuries. Any blunt-force blow, a penetrating object, or a sudden jolt from a car accident can put you at risk.

Effects and Symptoms

The full effects of a brain injury may not show up for months or even years after the initial injury. Some TBIs affect brain cells only temporarily, while more serious ones — like a brain bleed — can cause long-term complications or death. Symptoms typically appear right away, but are easy to overlook until someone tries to resume their normal daily activities — a person can look fine while acting and feeling very differently. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or remembering new information
• Headache, blurry vision, dizziness, or balance problems
• Nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to noise or light
• Fatigue and low energy
• Irritability, sadness, or increased anxiety
• Sleeping much more or much less than usual

If you’ve had a blow or jolt to the head and experience a worsening headache that won’t go away, weakness, numbness, decreased coordination, repeated vomiting, or slurred speech, seek medical attention immediately — these can be signs of bleeding in the brain requiring emergency surgery.

Reducing Your Risk

Seat belts and functioning airbags are the most basic protection in a vehicle; young children should always ride in the back seat with an appropriately-sized car seat or booster. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs — use a designated driver or a rideshare instead. And always wear a helmet on a bicycle, skateboard, motorcycle, or scooter.

Do I Have a Brain Injury From a Car Wreck?

If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motor vehicle accident, the Traub Law Office, P.C. can help. Call us at (512) 246-9191 or fill in the form to speak to an attorney today.