Partner
Accidents involving commercial trucks often result in serious injuries due to the sheer force these vehicles impart upon impact. One of the most severe is the traumatic brain injury (TBI). Recognizing the signs of a TBI early on is essential for seeking proper treatment and protecting your legal rights. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, here’s what you need to know about the signs and symptoms of TBI.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of severe injury that occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes sudden trauma to the brain. A TBI can disrupt the normal function of the brain, leading to temporary or permanent impairments.
Examples of traumatic brain injuries include:
- Concussions, also called mild traumatic brain injuries
- Contusions, or bruising of the brain tissue
- Diffuse axonal injury, in which lesions appear on white and gray matter
- Penetrating injury, in which a foreign object pierces and damages the brain
Common Signs of Traumatic Brain Injuries
TBIs can manifest in various ways, and symptoms might appear immediately or develop over time. These symptoms can vary in severity and are not necessarily present in every case. Here are some key indicators to watch for:
- Physical Symptoms: Persistent headaches, dizziness or balance problems, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and seizures or convulsions.
- Cognitive Symptoms: Confusion, disorientation, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, slowed thinking or processing, and trouble with problem-solving or decision-making.
- Emotional and Behavioral Changes: Mood swings or irritability, depression, anxiety, agitation, changes in sleep patterns, insomnia, and loss of interest in usual activities.
- Sensory Symptoms: Changes in smell or taste, sensitivity to sound or light, and blurred or double vision.
The Importance of Prompt Medical Attention
If you suspect you or a loved one suffered a TBI in a truck accident, it is important that you seek immediate medical care. Here’s why:
- Early Diagnosis: The sooner a TBI is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin. Prompt care is crucial to improving prognosis and minimizing the injury’s long-term effects.
- Prevention of Complications: Untreated TBIs can lead to serious complications, including intracranial swelling and permanent brain damage.
- Documentation of Injuries: Proper medical documentation will be essential for any future legal claims related to the accident. The medical records of your treatment will link the injuries to the collision, making it hard for the trucking company or its insurer to question their connection.
Preserving Your Right to Compensation
If someone else caused the truck accident that resulted in your TBI, you can hold that party financially responsible for the consequences. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs. Here’s what you can do after a truck accident TBI to preserve your right to seek compensation in a personal injury claim:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all symptoms, medical treatments you receive, and how the injury affects your daily life.
- Don’t Settle Quickly: Insurance companies might offer a quick settlement, but it’s crucial to understand the full extent of your injuries (and their potential long-term consequences) before signing anything.
- Consult an Experienced Attorney: A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can handle the complex legal process and fight for your rights while you focus on recovery.
- Be Aware of Time Limits: New York law gives you three years to file most personal injury lawsuits, so prompt action is important.
Contact Our Syracuse & Central New York Truck Accident Attorney
Recognizing the signs of a TBI after a truck accident is essential for both your health and your legal rights. If you or a loved one has been involved in a Syracuse truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact CDH Law, PLLC, for help. Our compassionate team can support you every step of the way, from ensuring you receive proper medical care to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Remember, your health and well-being come first. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of a TBI, seek medical attention immediately. Once your provider addresses your immediate health concerns, our experienced attorneys will be there to handle the legal aspects of your case and work toward securing the compensation you need. Contact us today.
Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC represents clients in Syracuse, Central New York, and in the following towns and villages of Onondaga County: Camillus, Cicero, Clay, Dewitt, Elbridge, Geddes, Manlius, Marcellus, Onondaga, Salina, Skaneateles, Baldwinsville, East Syracuse, Fayetteville, Jefferson County, Liverpool, North Syracuse, and Solvay.