Head and brain injuries are frequently sustained during car accidents, especially if the driver or passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and are very serious. Car accidents are the second-leading cause of traumatic brain injury and the cause that results in the most deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Head injuries typically occur from blows to the head. For example, the head and brain can be injured if the head hits the side of the car or windshield or if it is hit by flying debris. A particularly grave type of head injury is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), which occurs as a result of a blow to the head or by an object penetrating the skull.

The symptoms of TBI and other brain injuries can take days or even weeks to develop, so it is crucial that you seek medical treatment immediately if you hit your head during a motor vehicle accident. Symptoms vary according to the severity of the injury and can include a concussion, loss of consciousness—from a few seconds to hours—a confused state, headaches, memory problems, dizziness, nausea, mood swings, fatigue, slurred speech, difficulty balancing, and seizures.

Head injuries can cause swelling, bruising, tearing, bleeding, and permanent damage to the brain. The brain is an organ that is often slow to heal, which can make damage long-lasting. This damage can cause long-term complications to the brain’s function—such as problems learning, speaking, and balancing. These problems can negatively affect a person’s quality of life for years, making it difficult to work or do daily tasks. TBI and other head injuries can even result in death.

Treatment of head injuries can include medication and physical and speech therapies, which are often expensive and long-term. Because of the severity of this type of injury, immediate treatment is very important. At the scene of the accident, tell the paramedics if you hit your head, and see a doctor.

If you have sustained a head injury as the result of an automobile accident that was not your fault, contact a Huntsville car accident attorney at Martinson & Beason, P.C. You may be entitled to compensation to pay your medical bills and support yourself while you heal. Our attorneys will tell you your options and work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. We represent clients in cities throughout Alabama, including Huntsville, Anniston, and Mobile.

Email us or call us at (256) 533-1667.