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Car accidents are sudden, terrifying events that can change lives in an instant. Among the most serious and complex injuries sustained in such accidents are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). As Rochester area personal injury attorneys, we have seen the profound impact TBIs can have on victims and their families. This summary guide aims to provide key information on TBIs, focusing on their symptoms, treatment, and legal considerations.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries

A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when an external force injures the brain. Car accidents are a leading cause of TBIs due to the sudden and forceful impacts involved. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions, physical abilities, and emotional health.

Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries:

1. Concussions: The most common and mildest form of TBI. Symptoms may include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and temporary loss of consciousness.
2. Contusions: Bruising of the brain tissue, often requiring surgery if significant.
3. Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI): Caused by severe rotation or shaking of the head, as often occurs in car accidents. DAIs can lead to permanent brain damage and disability.
4. Penetrating Injuries: Occurs when an object pierces the skull and enters the brain tissue.

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Symptoms of TBIs can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury and the area of the brain affected.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent headaches or neck pain
• Loss of memory, especially of the events leading up to and following the accident
• Confusion and disorientation
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Behavioral or mood changes
• Seizures

It's crucial for anyone involved in a car crash to seek immediate medical attention, even if no immediate symptoms are apparent, as some brain injuries can take time to manifest.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident

1. Medical Attention: Safety and health are the priority. Even if you feel fine, underlying injuries, like TBIs, may not be immediately evident.
2. Police Report: Always call the police to the scene so that an official report can be made.
3. Document the Scene and Injuries: Take photographs of the scene, the vehicles involved, and your injuries.
4. Witnesses: Gather contact information from witnesses as their statements could be crucial in building a case.
5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced attorney can guide you through the complex legal landscape, helping ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Treatment and Recovery from TBIs

Treatment for TBIs depends on the severity of the injury. Mild TBIs might only require rest and medication for headaches, but more severe injuries could need extensive rehabilitation therapies:

• Medical Care: Initial treatment may involve observation in the hospital and medications to control symptoms.
• Rehabilitation: Long-term therapies may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and psychological support.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Follow-up appointments are critical to monitor the progress and address any developing conditions.

Conclusion

Traumatic brain injuries from car accidents are serious and can have lasting impacts on a victim's life. Understanding the medical and legal aspects of these injuries is crucial for recovery and compensation. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to a car crash, it's important to seek qualified medical and legal assistance promptly. Our law firm is committed to supporting victims of TBIs, helping navigate the challenges of this difficult time.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a car accident, it is imperative to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who can navigate the legal complexities and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Remember, time is of the essence, so don't delay in seeking legal advice to protect your rights and ensure a smoother path towards recovery.

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About the author: Peter J. Gregory is a partner with MCCM Personal Injury Lawyers in Rochester, NY.  He is a trial lawyer with extensive experience resolving disputes in state and federal trial courts. As a personal injury lawyer, Gregory focuses on advising clients who have been injured or lost loved ones in accidents caused by the carelessness or recklessness of others. Please feel free to contact him directly at pgregory@mccmlaw.com or (585) 512-3506.

This publication is intended as an information source for clients, prospective clients, and colleagues and constitutes attorney advertising. The content should not be considered legal advice and readers should not act upon information in this publication without individualized professional counsel.

About MCCM

McConville Considine Cooman & Morin, P.C. is a full-service law firm based in Rochester, New York, providing high-quality legal services to businesses and individuals since 1979.  With over a dozen attorneys and a full paralegal support staff, the firm is well-positioned to right-size services tailored to each client. We are large enough to provide expertise in a broad range of practice areas, yet small enough to devote prompt, personal attention to our clients.

We represent a diverse range of clients located throughout New York State and New England.  They include individuals, numerous manufacturing and service industry businesses, local governments, and health care professionals, provider groups, facilities and associations. We also serve as local counsel to out-of-state clients and their attorneys who have litigation pending in Western New York courts.  For more information, please contact us at 585.546.2500.