When a person experiences head injuries following a car accident or other personal injury in California, they can face many symptoms, ranging from confusion to headaches to paralysis. Head injuries, especially traumatic brain injuries (TBI), can be difficult to diagnose, especially if there is no major sign of trauma on the head, like a bump or penetration of the skull.
TBIs and brain bleeds
A TBI happens when there is a sudden jolt or blow to the head. These are commonly seen after car accidents, slip and fall injuries or sports-related injuries. Anyone of these brain injuries can lead to a brain bleed.
In California, there are time limits to file a personal injury claim. If someone else is responsible for your TBI, you will have to decide quickly whether you want to pursue the matter in court.
A hematoma is when a blood clot forms in your brain because your body is trying to prevent internal bleeding. Hematomas can be large or small. Most people with a TBI experience one of three types of hematomas, including epidural, subdural and intracerebral hematomas.
Why brain bleeds are dangerous
When there is bleeding in the brain, it increases pressure on the brain. This can lead to collections of blood that could be fatal. If a brain injury victim suffers a subdural hematoma, the bleeding happens under the skull outside the brain. The blood collects, putting pressure on the brain. As this increases, it can lead to severe symptoms, ranging from unconsciousness to death.
Head injury symptoms
Traumatic brain injuries are one of the leading causes of death after a traumatic accident. The injury could seem minor, like a bump or bruise. Or it can be severe, like a deep cut or fractured skull. Depending on where the injury location and how severe the bleeding is, a person can experience memory loss, vision issues, behavioral changes and weakness, among other symptoms.
You should not take traumatic brain injuries lightly. It is beneficial for anyone who has experienced a head injury to get medical care and evaluate their options for obtaining compensation.