Many people walk away from car accidents thinking they are fine, only to experience serious symptoms days or weeks later. One of the most commonly ignored injuries in auto accidents is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Unlike cuts or broken bones, TBIs are invisible and can go undiagnosed without the proper medical tests.
TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Even a low-speed collision can cause the brain to shift inside the skull, leading to lasting problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1.7 million people in the U.S. suffer a TBI each year. Of those, over 214,000 are hospitalized, and many experience long-term effects.
When it is more than just a bump on the head
Some people assume they are just shaken up after an accident. However, TBI symptoms can be subtle and slow to appear. This is why medical care and legal support are so important. Common signs of a TBI include:
- Headaches that don’t go away
- Memory loss or confusion
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Mood swings or depression
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Blurred or double vision
- Slurred speech
- Loss of coordination or balance
- Sleep problems
- Nausea or dizziness
These issues can be especially alarming if they worsen over time or begin suddenly after the crash. The symptoms may also point to deeper issues that require long-term care.
Insurance companies may try to downplay these symptoms. Without medical records and expert opinions, victims often struggle to prove how serious their injuries are. In this case, having a legal representative can help with the claim. They can help document the injury, work with medical experts and seek fair compensation. TBIs can affect every part of life—work, family and health—so the legal outcome truly matters.
