Traumatic Brain Injuries

Respected Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers Aggressively Clients Suffering from Serious Head Injuries 

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most devastating types of injuries you can experience in a motor vehicle accident. While the effects of a TBI can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, the recovery process if often long, painful, and costly. If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident, the experienced team at Suthers & Harper is here to help. Our Savannah car accident attorneys understand the impact that a TBI can have on your life and are prepared to do everything possible to connect you with the compensation you need to ensure you are not left paying for another’s negligence. 

Head and Brain Injury Statistics

In recent years, medical advancements have improved our understanding of the human brain and highlighted the seriousness of traumatic brain injuries. Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of TBIs. Below are some startling TBI statistics:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.5 million Americans sustain a traumatic brain injury each year.

Motor vehicle accidents are responsible for roughly 20% of all TBIs, making them one of the leading causes of brain injuries in the United States.

Around 230,000 people are hospitalized annually due to TBIs, and 50,000 die as a result of their injuries.

Survivors of TBIs often face long-term disabilities, with an estimated 5.3 million Americans living with a TBI-related disability.

If you or a loved one has experienced a brain injury, a Savannah car accident lawyer at Suthers & Harper can help you understand your options and pursue compensation for what you’ve been through..

Types of Brain Injuries

There are several types of brain injuries, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges. Understanding the different kinds of brain injuries can help you and your medical team develop a treatment plan and better assess the extent of the damage. The following are some common types of brain injuries associated with motor vehicle accidents:

Open Head Injuries: Open head injuries occur when an object penetrates the skull, directly damaging the brain tissue. These injuries can be caused by debris or sharp objects during a car accident and often require immediate surgery to prevent further damage.

Closed Head Injuries: Closed head injuries happen when the brain is shaken or jolted inside the skull without any external penetration. These are more common in car accidents, where the impact of the crash causes the brain to collide with the inside of the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, or swelling.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A TBI is any injury to the brain caused by external force, whether from a blow to the head or violent movement. TBIs can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild TBIs, such as concussions, may cause temporary symptoms like headaches and dizziness, while severe TBIs can result in permanent cognitive impairment, loss of motor function, or even death.

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI): This type of injury occurs when the brain is subjected to rapid acceleration and deceleration, causing tears in the brain’s long connecting nerve fibers. DAIs are often caused by high-speed car accidents and can lead to severe brain damage or coma.

Contusions: A contusion is essentially a bruise on the brain, often caused by the brain hitting the inside of the skull. Contusions can vary in severity, and in some cases, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the brain.

Concussions: A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or a violent shaking of the body. Concussion symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and memory problems. While concussions are typically considered mild, repeated or untreated concussions can lead to long-term cognitive issues and require careful monitoring and treatment

No matter the type of brain injury, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. In fact, even if you don’t notice any symptoms, it’s still important to seek medical attention, as even those with a TBI may not notice any visible symptoms. 

The Long-Term Costs of a Traumatic Brain Injury

Victims of TBIs often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support, which can add up to hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars over a lifetime. Some of the long-term costs associated with a TBI include:

Medical Expenses: Hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and regular doctor visits can quickly become expensive. In severe cases, victims may need round-the-clock care or placement in specialized long-term care facilities.

Rehabilitation: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are often necessary for TBI victims to regain some level of function. These therapies can continue for months or years, depending on the severity of the injury.

Lost Wages: Many TBI victims are unable to return to work, at least temporarily and sometimes permanently. The loss of income, combined with mounting medical bills, can place a major financial strain on the victim and their family.

Emotional and Psychological Impact: The mental toll of a TBI can be just as severe as the physical effects. Victims may experience depression, anxiety, and frustration as they adjust to life with a brain injury. Family members and caregivers may also experience emotional stress while supporting their loved one through recovery.

Learn More About Pursuing a Savannah TBI Car Accident Claim

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident, you don’t have to take on the recovery process alone. At Suthers & Harper, our experienced Savannah car accident attorneys are here to provide the legal guidance and support you need. We will work closely with you to build a strong case, gathering evidence, consulting medical experts, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. You can reach us by calling 800-320-2384 or by filling out our secure online contact form. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we can recover compensation on your behalf.