Driving safely is a priority for most people on the road. Despite our best efforts to remain safe, we may be struck by a driver who’s being negligent. This can lead to serious injuries, especially if the crash happens at higher speeds.
You might walk away from a crash thinking that you aren’t injured at all. Some injuries will become evident in the few days following the crash. A brain injury is one of the possible injuries that stem from a car wreck.
Symptoms might be delayed
The symptoms of a brain injury can sometimes take days or weeks to appear. Oftentimes, people will think that the pesky headache they have is from stress or another common cause. They may not realize anything is amiss until their normal treatments for the headache fail to work. The brain injury may also become evident if they have other common symptoms, such as sensitivity to light or sound.
A direct hit isn’t required
You don’t have to hit your head during the crash to suffer a brain injury. The brain is delicate. The violent force of the wreck could cause the brain to slam against the skull. This can lead to significant damage.
Long-term effects are possible
Some brain injuries lead to long-term effects. These are cumulative, so a person who suffers multiple concussions or brain injuries may begin to develop more serious conditions. For example, chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that results in death.
Anyone who suffered a brain injury in a car wreck should ensure they get medical attention. Seeking compensation from a negligent driver is possible. This can help the injured party to recover the cost of medical care and other financial damages directly related to the crash.