5 Brain Injuries From Auto Accidents and Your Legal Options

Auto accidents can result in a range of injuries, but brain injuries are among the most serious. These injuries can vary greatly in severity and impact, often requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care. Understanding the five types of brain injuries that can occur and your legal options is crucial if you or a loved one have been affected.

1. Concussions: The Hidden Impact

Concussions are one of the most common brain injuries resulting from car accidents, yet they are often the most misunderstood. This type of injury occurs when the brain is jolted inside the skull due to a sudden stop or impact, which can easily happen during a vehicle collision. Symptoms may include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and sometimes loss of consciousness. Given their potentially subtle symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention even if you feel “fine” after an accident. Legally, if another’s negligence is to blame for your consent in Columbia or anywhere in South Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation. It’s advisable to consult with a car accident attorney to explore your options.

2. Contusions: Bruising of the Brain

Contusions are essentially bruises on the brain caused by a direct impact on the head, commonly seen in auto accidents where the head might strike an object like the steering wheel or window. Depending on the severity, surgery might be needed to alleviate swelling or remove the contusion. An auto accident attorney can help document the cause and extent of the injury to fight for your rightful claim.

3. Penetrating Injuries: Breaches in Skull Integrity

In more severe scenarios, objects may penetrate the skull, causing direct damage to brain tissues. These penetrating injuries are often critical and require immediate medical intervention to minimize long-term damage. Recovery can be long and fraught with challenges. If you or a loved one in Columbia, SC, endure such a harrowing experience due to someone’s negligence, securing a skilled car accident attorney is imperative to navigate the complex legal landscape.

4. Diffuse Axonal Injuries: The Tearing Reality

Diffuse Axonal Injuries (DAI) involve the stretching or tearing of nerve fibers within the brain. This type of injury can occur in accidents involving rapid acceleration or deceleration, common in vehicular collisions. DAIs can lead to significant complications, including coma. Victims of DAIs need comprehensive legal representation from a car accident attorney who understands the medical implications and can push for compensation that covers long-term care needs.

5. Intracranial Hematomas: The Pressure Within

Ranging from bleeding within the brain tissue itself to bleeding between the brain and skull, intracranial hematomas can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. These injuries may not initially present symptoms, making it crucial to undergo a thorough medical examination after any significant blow to the head. Legal expertise is vital to ensure that the costs of medical care, rehabilitation, and any necessary future treatments are fully accounted for in any claims or litigation.

Navigating Your Legal Journey with Sharpe & Leventis, LLC

In the aftermath of an auto accident leading to a brain injury, knowing your legal rights and options is crucial. At Sharpe & Leventis, LLC, our Columbia-based team is here to guide you through the complexities of your case. Whether you’re seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering, our experienced auto accident attorneys are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal representation.

Give us a call at (803) 830-6296 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.