A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most severe and permanent injuries you can face after an accident. Brain injuries are not always immediately evident either, which makes it all the more important to seek medical attention after a blow to the head. There are three main processes, which concern medical professionals the most after an accident: brain bruising, tearing and swelling. All of these potential brain injuries can cause lifelong cognitive disabilities and may even lead to coma or death.
Imagine you are driving your vehicle or motorcycle at 60mph and are hit by another driver going the same speed. Your body goes from this accelerated speed to a standstill within seconds. This sudden crash initially pushes you forward then backward. The jarring movement causes your soft brain tissue to hit the front and back of your hard skull resulting in bruising and/or bleeding. This can lead to the loss of essential cognitive functions, which you may never recover from.
Torn brain tissue is difficult to discern through typical medical tests such as a CT scan or MRI. These tears are microscopic, but can cause severe damage by cutting the ties between different areas of your brain.
Men and women who have survived a TBI can suffer these changes and more:
The trouble with swelling in your brain is that the enlarged areas have no breathing room to heal, causing rising pressure within your skull. Sometimes, physicians will perform surgery to alleviate this pressure and prevent further brain damage.
A traumatic brain injury can cause personality changes. You may lose your career. Your personal relationships may suffer and you could view yourself and your future differently. These injuries often change lives forever and can happen in any accident, no matter the speed.
If you’ve suffered a brain injury, please contact our accident lawyer in Prescott Valley today at (928) 778-2660 to schedule your consultation. The Jensen Phelan Law Firm, P.C. serves clients throughout Northern Arizona including Sedona, Prescott and Prescott Valley.