How To Identify Possible Brain Injury After An Accident

November 21 , 2023 | Brain Injury

Brain injuries can happen in many types of accidents: car and truck crashes, slip-and-fall incidents, medical malpractice, and many more. Unfortunately, brain injuries are some of the most serious and most expensive to treat of all personal injuries. 

If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury, it could be a long, costly road to recovery. But how do you know if you have a brain injury after an accident? The signs and symptoms mentioned in the following article could indicate that you should be checked over by a physician immediately.

If another party caused the accident and you and your attorney can prove liability, you could receive compensation in a lawsuit. Our Racine personal injury attorneys at Martin Law Office have a distinguished record offering comprehensive accident and injury representation across Wisconsin.

How Common Are Brain Injuries?

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a leading cause of disability and death in the U.S. among children and young adults. Each year, about 1.5 million Americans suffer TBIs which causes about 230,000 people to be hospitalized, 50,000 to die, and 90,000 to have long-term disabilities.

Motor vehicle accidents are the top cause of brain injuries leading to hospitalization and death. Falls are a leading cause of brain injuries among older Americans. If you suffer a brain injury in an accident, you should have your case reviewed by a qualified personal injury attorney. If your case qualifies, you may be able to receive compensation in a settlement or lawsuit against the liable party.

Possible Signs Of A Brain Injury After An Accident

Below are several potential signs of a brain injury after an accident, and the symptoms and signs vary based on the type of injury, severity, and part of the brain damaged. However, only a licensed medical professional can diagnose you with a brain injury. So, if you suspect an injury, you should schedule an appointment with your physician. Some potential symptoms of brain injuries include: 

  • Behavior or mood changes
  • Memory problems or confusion
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Blurred vision or dilated pupils
  • Fainting, fatigue, or dizziness
  • Agitation or restlessness
  • Sleeping too much or not enough
  • Slurred speech
  • Headaches
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to smell or light

When Should You See A Doctor?

You should always see your physician if you or your loved one had a blow to the head and you experienced any unusual symptoms. Your healthcare provider will conduct an examination and ask about the symptoms you are experiencing. They also will ask about what caused the injury. Depending on the severity of the brain injury and your symptoms, your doctor may do any of the following:

  • Neurological evaluation: A neurologist may check your thinking memory, motor function, and sensory functions.
  • Imaging tests: You may undergo CT and MRI scans to look for brain swelling and bleeding.
  • Blood tests: The Banyan Brain Trauma Indicator test can check for blood proteins that suggest you may have a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury.

After getting medical attention, you should talk to a personal injury attorney to discuss possibly filing a claim or lawsuit. If another party is liable, you may be able to obtain compensation for your medical bills, lost work time, and pain and suffering.

What Is A Brain Injury Case Worth?

Assume you have a brain injury from a car accident, and another driver caused the incident. How much could you receive in a claim or lawsuit? 

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to determine what a brain injury claim is worth. Different personal injury cases will have different case values. Because brain injury cases are complex, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Speak To Our Racine Personal Injury Attorney

If you suspect you have a brain injury caused by someone’s negligence in an accident, your life may never be the same. You could suffer severe effects from the injury that could change your life for years or permanently. How will you afford the necessary treatments to recover?

You should speak to an experienced Racine personal injury lawyer at Martin Law today by calling us at (414) 856-4010 for a consultation. Employing an experienced lawyer is essential for obtaining the best settlement for any brain injury case. Mr. Martin has years of experience representing brain injury victims and knows how to hold insurance companies accountable for their clients’ negligent actions. He also has a nursing degree and nursing work history and truly cares about and understands his clients’ best interests after an accident.