When a person suffers a brain injury in a car accident, doctors first assess the severity —whether mild, moderate or severe —to determine the appropriate treatment plan. This medical assessment is crucial in a personal injury lawsuit if the injured victim decides to pursue compensation.
Understanding the severity of brain injuries can help a victim recover damages which can help with the high costs of medical treatment, lost wages and other financial challenges associated with a brain injury.
Mild brain injuries
Mild brain injuries, such as concussions, happen when the brain suffers a sudden jolt. Symptoms often include dizziness, short-term memory problems, headaches and nausea.
While the effects are generally short-lived, mild brain injuries can still cause cognitive impairments such as difficulty concentrating or memory problems. People who suffer from a mild brain injury may recover fully with rest and time, although some may experience lingering symptoms.
Moderate brain injuries
Moderate brain injuries involve more forceful trauma such as those from falls, minor car accidents or sports-related accidents. These injuries often require a longer recovery period. Symptoms include confusion, physical impairments and difficulty concentrating.
People with moderate brain injuries often recover over time, but rehabilitation may be needed to address cognitive or physical impairments. Recovery times vary significantly and some individuals may experience long-term challenges, depending on the location and severity of the injury.
Severe brain injuries
Severe brain injuries are serious and life-threatening injuries that result in widespread damage to the brain. These are usually caused by traumatic events such as vehicle collisions, penetrating wounds or severe medical conditions.
Common symptoms include loss of consciousness, severe cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, speech and language problems, respiratory issues, personality or behavioral changes or loss of sensory functions.
Individuals with severe brain injuries may sustain a permanent disability and require long-term medical care such as speech or physical therapy and other forms of rehabilitation. Immediate medical attention is critical.
What can I do if I sustained a serious brain injury after a car accident?
Suffering from an unexpected brain injury, whether mild, moderate or severe, can drain a person financially, emotionally and physically. A personal injury attorney can help you work around the legal and financial complexities of recovering compensation after a car accident.
Understanding the differences between the different categories of brain injuries is essential for victims to receive proper diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, this information may help them recover adequate compensation that reflects the significant impact of a brain injury on their life.