Traumatic brain injury (TBI) comes in many forms, from a concussion to permanently disabling brain damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly 1.7 million people suffer from traumatic brain injury each year. Since the second leading cause of TBI is car accidents, if you have been in a serious Indiana car accident chances are you may have suffered a traumatic brain injury.
With traumatic brain injuries accounting for nearly 32% of all TBI-related deaths, and these injuries alone accounting for more than 30% of all injury-related deaths in the United States, it’s no wonder these types of accidents can be devastating to a family. If you or a loved one has suffered from a traumatic brain injury, you may need to consult with an Indianapolis car accident attorney to recover damages for your suffering and losses.
Signs of a Traumatic Brain Injury after an Indiana Car Accident
After a serious Indiana car accident, you should seek medical attention to evaluate and document your injuries. Many victims of a traumatic brain injury do not seek treatment because the signs can be so mild. Any time you notice a change in your behavior, thinking or physical state after a serious Indiana car accident, you should consult with a doctor.
Some of the common signs of a traumatic brain injury include:
- Dizziness or decreased coordination
- Short periods of unconsciousness
- Slurred speech
- Sleeping problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Persistent drowsiness
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Concentration and memory problems
- Confusion or abnormal behavior
These are not the only signs to look for when assessing your health following an Indiana car accident. All of your injuries should be taken seriously, as neglecting to treat a traumatic brain injury in a timely manner could lead to long-term brain damage or even death.
Treatment for a traumatic brain injury can be lengthy and expensive, creating large medical bills and unnecessary suffering. When your Indiana car accident was caused by another driver, you can work with an Indianapolis car accident attorney to obtain compensation for your injuries, suffering and losses.
Physical Recovery from a Traumatic Brain Injury
The treatment and recovery from a traumatic brain injury depends on the severity of your Indiana car accident. Mild concussions normally heal with rest and time, while some serious types of head trauma can lead to the need for surgery, medication and therapy.
When a traumatic brain injury causes serious injuries and results in brain damage, it can create the need for long-term care and rehabilitation. You may need physical therapy to regain coordination and feeling in your limbs. Behavioral, speech and emotional therapy may also be necessary to cope with mental damage.
Financial Recovery from a Traumatic Brain Injury
The costs associated with an Indiana car accident can be astronomical if you suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. Medical bills aren’t your only worry, as you may also be dealing with the loss of income from your inability to work, as well as damages to your physical property, such as your car. You also need to consider long-term care for your injuries and the potential for permanent disability.
These expenses can be devastating to a family but may be resolved through an Indiana personal injury claim. Filing a claim can be frustrating and time consuming, so it is best to have the help and guidance of an Indianapolis car accident attorney. Plus, victims who settle their claims with the help of attorneys often receive a substantially higher settlement that considers all damages from an Indiana car accident.