When you think about the violent, forceful impact, you may not be surprised to learn that Maryland car accidents are a top cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) support this theory, as around 20% of individuals who are hospitalized for TBI are victims of motor vehicle crashes. Plus, of the 2.5 million TBI-related visits to US emergency rooms annually, 330,000 of patients had been injured in an auto collision – comprising 13.2%.
The brain is the most complex organ in the human body, so trauma can impact mobility, coordination, cognitive abilities, and many other systems. It is reassuring to know that you have options if you or a loved one suffered TBI in an auto crash, and a Maryland car accidents lawyer can assist with the legal process. Some background information may also be helpful.
Long-Term TBI Complications
TBI is not a single type of injury but a class of injuries that affects the brain. The implications for a victim may vary depending on the severity of the trauma and the section of the brain that is affected. Traumatic Brain Injuries may result from a violent blow to the head, such as what would occur in a motor vehicle collision. The impact may lead the brain to come into contact with the hard bone matter of the skull, damaging brain matter.
There are three levels of TBI, including:
- Mild TBI or concussion usually leads to headaches and dizziness, but the victim will usually experience full recovery.
- Victims of moderate TBI may lose consciousness for a brief period and suffer chronic migraines; and,
- Severe TBI could cause a victim to be in a coma for several hours or longer. Long-term implications include paralysis, impaired motor skills, and problems walking. The individual may also have difficulties with basic personal tasks, such as dressing, cooking, cleaning, and hygiene.
Remedies for TBI Victims After a Car Accident
Based upon the above descriptions, you can see that the consequences of TBI may be extensive. You could incur astronomical medical costs for treatment and may not be able to work while you recover; some victims of TBI never fully return to health and suffer permanent disability. Therefore, seeking all available legal remedies under Maryland law is critical. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Your medical bills, including expenses related to emergency treatment, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and other care;
- Lost wages and future earning capacity;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress; and,
- Many other losses.
Contact a Baltimore County Auto Accident Attorney to Discuss Your Options
This information on the long-term complications of TBI should convince you that it is critical to pursue the at-fault driver for compensation after a car accident. However, it is also important to retain a skilled lawyer to assist with the legal tasks. For additional details about your rights, please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman. We can set up a free consultation to review your situation and explain your legal remedies.
