Brain injuries are one of the most common injuries that can occur in a motor vehicle accident. Unfortunately, they are also one of the most serious. In some cases, brain injuries are not apparent immediately after the collision and may take time to manifest symptoms. Here’s how to tell if you or a loved one may have sustained a brain injury in a car accident, and what to do about it.
Symptoms of a Brain Injury
When the symptoms of a brain injury are severe, such as unconsciousness or amnesia, it is clear that a brain injury has occurred and medical professionals will likely provide immediate treatment. However, when symptoms are mild and don’t occur right away, it can be difficult to ascertain that a brain injury actually occurred. If you or a loved one have been involved in an auto accident, be on the lookout for the following symptoms of a brain injury:
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Impaired memory
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
- Changes in behavior
- Changes in sleep patterns
These symptoms to not have to be significant or obvious for a brain injury to have occurred. Individuals with residual brain injuries that were not diagnosed at the time of the accident may only experience mild confusion or disorientation, or may attribute their blurred vision or headaches to something else. However, if any of these symptoms are present after a car accident, they must be evaluated as quickly as possible, regardless of whether they are mild or severe.
Tests For Brain Injuries
There are a variety of different tests that can reveal whether a person has a residual brain injury after a car accident. These tests include x-rays, CT scans, MRI’s, and physical and verbal evaluations. While some medical professionals will perform these tests as soon as a patient is admitted after a car accident as a precaution, others will deem them unnecessary if the patient is talking, walking and seems to act fine. However, if you notice any of the above symptoms in yourself or your loved one, ask the doctor about the possibility of testing for a brain injury. A CT, MRI or even an x-ray can reveal hidden brain injuries that weren’t noticeable at first.
Contact a Skilled Boise, Idaho Brain Injury Attorney As Soon As Possible
If you or someone you love have been the victim of an automobile accident, it’s important that you contact an experienced Boise, Idaho brain injury lawyer as quickly as possible following the collision. An attorney can guide you through the steps of obtaining proper medical care after an accident, as well as lodging a personal injury claim for financial damages incurred as a result of the collision.
At the Rossman Law Group, we have assisted hundreds of clients who have suffered car accident related brain injuries, and can utilize our skills and experience to bring about the most positive result in your case. Call us today at (208) 331-2030 for a consultation to discuss your case.
