Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to permanent disability and even death to sufferers of the condition.

TBI contributes to nearly one-third of all injury-related deaths in the U.S. according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Of the estimated 1.7 million Americans that experience a TBI this year alone, 52,000 will die and 275,000 will be hospitalized, CDC reports.

Severities of TBI

TBI occurs in two distinct levels of severity. The levels are classified as either closed or open (penetrating) based on the actual trauma that occurs.

  • Closed TBI: This head injury results from an actual blow to the head from striking an object or being struck. In a closed TBI, the object bludgeons but does not actually break the skull.
  • Penetrating or Open TBI: This type of head injury results from an object breaking the skull and entering the area of the brain. Examples are usually related to high-impacts like gunshots or car crashes that result in headfirst launch through the windshield.

Health Issues and Symptoms of TBI

Health issues that occur from TBI include concussions, contusions and fractures. Common symptoms of severe TBI after a high-impact collision like a car accident include, but are not limited to:

  • Chronic to severe headaches
  • Swelling, fracture, bruising of the head, face or neck
  • Change in pupils or sight
  • Paralysis
  • Seizures
  • Loss of sensation or loss of hearing, smell, taste or feel (numbness or tingling)
  • Slurred speech or lack of coordination

Car Crash Injuries resulting in TBI

Motor vehicle crashes and car accident-related injuries are directly related to over 30 percent of the TBI-related deaths in the U.S., according to the CDC. In addition, 2.3 million adult drivers were treated in emergency rooms for car crash injuries in 2009. Of the TBI's requiring hospitalization, half are caused by car crashes, FCA reports. These statistics illustrate the severe brain trauma that can be causes from motor vehicle collisions, along with other types of catastrophic injuries and damages.

If you have been injured in a car crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related losses. Speak to a personal injury attorney to learn more about your rights and legal options.

Source: Severe Traumatic Brain Injury