The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles reports that 128,172 car accidents occurred in the Commonwealth in 2019. Altogether, these collisions resulted in 65,708 confirmed injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most common, least understood types of auto accident injuries. Left untreated, a TBI can cause long term suffering and impairment. Here, our Virginia Beach auto accident attorney highlights the key things you should know about traffic collisions and traumatic brain injuries.
TBIs and Motor Vehicle Accidents: Know the Risks
A traumatic brain injury is a broad term used to describe the disruption of normal brain functioning caused by a sudden bump, blow, or penetrating head injury. TBIs vary widely in their nature and severity. That being said, all TBIs are serious enough to warrant immediate medical attention. The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that traumatic brain injuries are a major cause of death and disability in the United States.
Each year, approximately 50,000 people are killed and 90,000 people suffer long-term disability due to TBIs. Many tens of thousands more people sustained mild and moderate concussions that require ongoing medical attention or rehabilitative care. Notably, a large percentage of severe traumatic brain injuries occur in motor vehicle accidents.
What are the Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury?
Traumatic brain injuries are especially challenging to treat for several different reasons. First, they vary in both severity and immediate symptoms based on the specific part of the brain that was affected. Additionally, these injuries frequently occur with a delayed onset. It may take up to 72 hours (or more) for a victim to feel the full impact of a TBI after a car accident. The Mayo Clinic recommends watching out for the following common symptoms of TBIs:
- Headaches;
- Nausea;
- Disorientation;
- Short-term memory loss;
- Slurring of speech;
- Problem balancing;
- Unusual fatigue or drowsiness;
- Pupil dilation or sensitivity to light;
- Vomiting; and
- Loss of consciousness.
The best way to treat a TBI is with immediate medical attention and comprehensive ongoing care. If you or your family member is dealing with any of the common signs of a TBI after a car accident, you need to see a doctor right away. Even if you do not remember hitting your head, the force and jolt of the collision may still have caused a brain injury.
You Can Recover Financial Compensation for a Concussion or TBI
Under Virginia law, injured victims can seek financial compensation for the full value of their damages. If you suffered a concussion or TBI in a collision, you need money to pay your bills and support your loved ones. Sadly, insurers never make the claims process easy. At The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, P.L.L.C., our Virginia auto accident lawyer has extensive experience handling brain injury cases. We fight to help people maximize their financial recovery. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency room care;
- Medical expenses;
- Rehabilitative care, including physical therapy;
- Mental health support services;
- Lost wages;
- Diminished earning potential;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress;
- Long-term disability or impairment.
Call Our Virginia Beach Car Accident Lawyers Today
At The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, P.L.L.C., our Virginia auto accident lawyer is a skilled, results-focused advocate for clients. If you or your loved one suffered a concussion or TBI in a crash, we are more than ready to help. Contact us now for a free, fully confidential case evaluation. From our Virginia Beach office, we serve communities throughout the Hampton Roads region, including in Newport News, Norfolk, Hampton, Suffolk, Smithfield, and Chesapeake.
