Blunt force head trauma is one of the most serious potential complications following a car accident. Trauma to the head can result in severe medical conditions such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which are a major cause of death in the United States – according to Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
In fact, the Weekly Report states that TBIs make up nearly 30 percent of all injury deaths. This is partly because TBIs constitute a wide variety of conditions, including concussions and contusions, which are very common injuries after a car accident.
Initial Signs of Blunt Force Head Trauma
Car accident survivors do not always realize that they have sustained trauma, and it might take days for complications to arise. However, Livestrong.com explains that some symptoms are felt right away. By being alert of these head injury symptoms, you can identify and treat head injuries more quickly.
Bruising, Abrasions, or Lacerations
Many cases of blunt force trauma will come with large wounds that can be detected visually right away. However, in the chaos following an accident, it might be possible to overlook injuries. Be sure to check for signs of bleeding or trauma that may be hidden by the hair.
Dizziness
Dizziness or lightheadedness that does not subside within a short time after the initial accident can point to damage in the ears, cranium, or neck and throat.
Difficulty Speaking
Confusion and disorientation are common in an accident’s immediate aftermath, but they should not last longer than about half an hour. Difficulty speaking can indicate bleeding in the brain that can lead to lethal cerebral complications if not detected quickly.
Memory Problems
Many people find it hard to recall the exact details of an accident, and this can be normal. If new memory problems arise in the days immediately following an accident, however, there could be head, neck or brain damage that is still developing.
Symptoms of a Serious Head Injury
Some signs of blunt force head trauma after a car accident indicate a more serious injury, according to Mayo Clinic. It’s very important to understand and look out for these symptoms in the days following a car accident so that you can identify and treat serious medical conditions quickly:
- Persistent and/or severe headaches
- Repeated nausea and vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Blood or fluid draining from the ears or nose
- Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech
Personality changes or aggressive behavior
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, you should see a doctor and contact a car accident lawyer right away. You may be entitled to substantial compensation if another party was responsible for causing the car accident. Just remember that a complete medical diagnosis is also essential to establish the value of your claim. And the sooner you contact an attorney, the easier it will be to protect your legal rights in court after car accident injuries.
If you suspect that you have serious head injuries after a recent car accident, please see your primary care physician or visit a hospital emergency room immediately.
If you are located in the Las Vegas or Chicago area, contact The Paul Powell Law Firm to learn how we can help after a car accident. Our firm has years of experience helping car accident victims receive the financial compensation they deserve; especially when blunt force head trauma occurs.