Being involved in a severe car accident is extremely stressful, and suffering a traumatic brain injury compounds that stress significantly. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries in the United States, and many people suffer various levels of brain injuries after being in a car accident.
Traumatic brain injuries can happen when a person’s head slams against the dashboard, steering wheel, or airbag, or when a foreign object clashes with or penetrates a person’s head. The result of the force of the car accident can also cause the brain to slam into the skull, resulting in bruising, torn tissue, bleeding, and swelling.
After Suffering a TBI in a Car Accident: Get Medical Treatment Immediately
Brain injuries are notoriously difficult to diagnose because victims of brain injuries often appear to be functioning fine and traumatic brain injuries do not always appear on CT scans and MRIs. Additionally, traumatic brain injuries are often difficult to diagnose because the patient may not show symptoms right after the car accident. One of the most important things you can do after a car accident is to seek immediate medical treatment.
If you plan on filing a legal claim against the negligent driver who caused your injuries, you will need to establish that the car accident caused your traumatic brain injury. The sooner you can receive a full medical examination, including diagnostic tests for brain injuries, the better. Not only will you obtain the medical treatment you need, you will also establish a record of your medical care that can be important when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit. the earlier you document your injuries, the better.
By visiting the emergency room or your family medical doctor immediately after your accident, you will be able to provide the health insurance company or no-fault insurance company with proof that the motor vehicle accident caused your brain injury. It is easier for your lawyer to negotiate with insurance companies to pay for all of your necessary treatment and to get a fair legal settlement when you have an established record.
After Suffering a TBI in a Car Accident: Do Not Tough it Out
Many of us do not like to be a burden, and we will downplay our symptoms and try to tough out our injuries. Doing so can be incredibly dangerous, however, especially after a car accident. Even if you feel somewhat okay after the accident, it is worth speaking to a doctor to rule out any potential brain injuries. Brain bleeds can quickly cause a person to go into a coma, and they can also cause death. We have seen cases in which people feel like they do not want to complain, but develop major injuries within a week or more.
Speak to an Experienced Lawyer
After receiving medical treatment, the next most important thing you can do is to speak to an experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to advocate for your rights and help you secure compensation from the negligent driver or the insurance company. Contact Griggs Injury Law today to schedule your initial consultation.
