Car accidents can have devastating consequences, and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most serious outcomes. At Horst Shewmaker, we understand the profound impact these injuries can have on victims and their families.
As experienced Alpharetta car accident lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand how TBIs can change lives forever. In this blog post, we’ll explore the long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries after a car crash and how they can impact every aspect of a person’s life.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when the brain experiences sudden trauma, often due to a violent jolt or blow to the head. In car accidents, TBIs can be caused by rapid acceleration and deceleration forces or your head hitting objects inside the vehicle. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries.
It’s crucial to understand that the effects of a traumatic brain injury may not be immediately apparent after a car accident. Some symptoms may take days or even weeks to manifest, which is why seeking prompt medical attention after any car crash is essential. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the long-term prognosis and reduce the risk of complications.
Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries After a Car Crash
Traumatic brain injuries can have a devastating long-term impact.
Cognitive Impairments
One of the most common long-term effects of a brain injury is cognitive impairment. This can manifest in various ways, affecting a person’s ability to think, reason, and process information. Many TBI survivors experience difficulties with memory, attention, and executive function. These issues can persist for years after the initial injury and may significantly impact a person’s daily life and ability to work.
For example, someone who previously excelled at multitasking might find themselves struggling to focus on even simple tasks. They may have trouble remembering appointments, following conversations, or making decisions. These cognitive challenges can be frustrating and may lead to decreased productivity at work or difficulties in maintaining relationships.
Communication Difficulties
TBIs can also affect the parts of the brain responsible for speech and communication. Some victims may experience a temporary inability to speak following the injury and may need to relearn verbal communication. Even in milder cases, individuals might struggle with slurred or slow speech, making it challenging to express themselves clearly.
Beyond verbal communication, TBI survivors may also have difficulty understanding or processing written information. This can impact their ability to read, write, or comprehend complex instructions. These communication challenges can affect a person’s confidence and social interactions, potentially leading to isolation or depression.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
The emotional and behavioral impacts of a TBI are often overlooked but can be just as devastating as the physical effects. Many TBI survivors experience significant changes in their mood and personality. They may become more irritable, aggressive, or impulsive. Some individuals might struggle with frequent mood swings, experiencing sudden bouts of anger or sadness without apparent cause.
Anxiety and depression are also common among TBI survivors. The sudden loss of abilities, coupled with the challenges of recovery, can be overwhelming. Some individuals may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially if the car accident that caused the TBI was particularly traumatic.
These emotional and behavioral changes can strain relationships with family and friends. Loved ones may struggle to understand why the person they knew has changed so dramatically.
Physical Symptoms and Sensory Changes
TBIs can result in a wide range of physical symptoms that may persist long after the initial injury. Chronic headaches are common, often worsening with physical or mental exertion. Some individuals may experience ongoing dizziness or balance problems, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks or return to work.
Sensory changes are another potential long-term effect of TBIs. Some survivors report changes in their vision, hearing, or sense of smell. These alterations can range from mild to severe and may require significant lifestyle adjustments.
In more severe cases, TBIs can lead to motor skill dysfunction. Survivors might struggle with coordination, balance, or fine motor control. Some may experience muscle weakness or paralysis, depending on the location and extent of the brain damage.
Seizures and Epilepsy
One of the more serious potential long-term effects of a TBI is the development of seizures or epilepsy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that individuals who suffer severe traumatic brain injuries are at an increased risk of developing epilepsy in the long term. These seizures can be challenging to manage and may require ongoing medical treatment and lifestyle modifications.
Cognitive Decline and Dementia
Recent research has highlighted a concerning link between TBIs and an increased risk of cognitive decline later in life. Studies suggest that moderate to severe TBIs may be associated with an increased risk of dementia as a person ages. This underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and care for TBI survivors, even years after the initial injury.
Impact on Daily Life and Independence
The cumulative effect of these long-term symptoms can significantly impact a person’s ability to live independently. Some TBI survivors may require assistance with daily tasks, modifications to their living space, or ongoing care support. This loss of independence can be one of the most challenging aspects of living with a TBI, affecting not only the survivor but also their family members who often become caregivers.
Compensation for a TBI in a Car Accident Claim
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most devastating outcomes of car accidents, often leaving victims and their families to deal with lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the tangible financial losses directly resulting from the TBI. These are easier to calculate because they come with specific costs or receipts, but they can add up quickly.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for medical bills can include hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and future medical expenses for ongoing care.
- Lost Wages and Lost Earning Capacity: You can seek compensation for lost income during your recovery. If your injury prevents you from working or from earning as much income, you can recover damages for lost earning ability.
- Other out-of-pocket costs: This can include the cost of home modifications for a disability or hiring help with household tasks the accident victim can’t do anymore.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are harder to calculate. These damages compensate victims for pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and family relationships.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish are common in TBI cases, as the recovery process is often long and unpredictable.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: TBIs can rob victims of their ability to participate in activities they once loved, from playing sports to spending quality time with family.
- Loss of Consortium: In some cases, victims may experience personality changes or cognitive impairments that strain relationships, leading to a loss of companionship or intimacy.
Punitive Damages
Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which are meant to compensate the victim, punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or intentional behavior. For example, if a car accident was caused by a drunk driver, the court may award punitive damages.
How Our Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
Dealing with a TBI is overwhelming, and navigating the legal process on top of that can feel impossible. That’s where a skilled traumatic brain injury lawyer can make all the difference.
From gathering medical records and consulting with experts to calculating long-term costs like lost earning potential and future care needs, our personal injury lawyers will ensure no detail is overlooked. We also negotiate aggressively with insurance companies that often undervalue claims, fighting to secure the compensation you truly deserve. We’re prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
At Horst Shewmaker, we’re committed to being your advocate every step of the way.
Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review
The long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries after a car crash can be life-altering. From cognitive impairments and emotional changes to physical symptoms and increased risk of future health issues, TBIs can impact every aspect of a person’s life. At Horst Shewmaker, we are committed to fighting for the rights of TBI survivors and their families in the Atlanta metro area and throughout Georgia.
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI in a car accident, don’t face this challenging journey alone. Our experienced team of Georgia personal injury attorneys is here to provide the legal support and advocacy you need. We’ll fight tirelessly for the compensation necessary to support your recovery and future care needs.
Call us today at (404) 400-1175 or fill out our contact form for a free case review.