Seeking Justice For The Injured

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Types of head injury from vehicle accidents

On Behalf of | Apr 2, 2022 | Brain Injuries, Car Accidents |

Vehicle accidents are the second most common cause of brain injury after falls. A person in Florida may experience one of several types of brain injuries.

Concussions

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a blunt force interrupts the normal function of the brain, such as hitting a steering wheel. Concussions are commonly mild traumatic brain injuries that may cause dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and headaches.

A mild TBI usually doesn’t cause a loss of consciousness, and if it does, it should only be brief. Concussions commonly don’t cause long-term effects, and they may heal in several weeks if they get treatment.

Skull fractures

A skull fracture commonly occurs from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard, being hurt by flying debris or getting ejected from the vehicle. A basal skull fracture, which occurs at the skull base, is the most serious fracture because it could cause a TBI.

A closed skull fracture breaks the bone, but it does not pierce the skin over the injury site. An open fracture occurs when the bone pierces the skin or surrounding skin on the injury site, making the bone visible. Skull fractures may cause swelling, fatigue, severe headaches, ear or nose fluid, bleeding, and nausea or persistent vomiting.

Contusions and hematoma

A contusion is a bruise on the brain, commonly occurring from rapid movement of the brain pushing against the skull. Some contusion symptoms include confusion, slurred speech, vomiting, nausea, light sensitivity, headaches and speech issues.

An intracerebral hematoma causes scattered bleeding under the surface of the brain, including the lobes, cerebellum and the poles. Common ICH symptoms include swelling, pain, confusion, seizures, severe headaches, sleep issues, redness and trouble moving limbs.

People who have been injured in vehicle crashes may pursue claims against at-fault drivers. They should first get examined by a doctor for proof of injury.