There are many safety features in vehicles in Pennsylvania now to help prevent accidents from occurring or lessen the damages people suffer when accidents do occur. However, despite all of the technological advances, people still get into car accidents and suffer injuries as a result. That is why it is still very important for people to obey traffic laws, avoid distractions, and drive safely.
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises and cuts to life-altering conditions. One of the most serious injuries is a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can have long-term physical and mental effects. Since car accidents are a leading cause of TBIs in Pennsylvania, understanding their impact is crucial for both medical treatment and potential legal claims.
Recovering from a brain injury after a car accident in Pennsylvania can be a long and costly process, often requiring extensive medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation. In addition to mounting medical expenses, a victim may lose the ability to work, leading to significant financial strain.
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Recovering from a serious TBI comes with many challenges, but seeking fair compensation shouldn’t be one of them. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our team of Western Pennsylvania traumatic brain injury attorneys can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (724) 658-8535 today to discuss your case.
What Qualifies as a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when a sudden impact, jolt, or blow to the head interferes with normal brain function. Car accidents are a common cause of TBIs in Western Pennsylvania, often resulting from direct impact, whiplash, or sudden deceleration.
Mild TBIs, often referred to as concussions, can lead to short-term cognitive difficulties, including memory problems, trouble focusing, and changes in mood. Physical symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and sensitivity to light or noise. Some individuals also experience emotional disturbances like anxiety or irritability. While most concussions resolve within weeks, repeated head trauma can lead to long-term damage.
Moderate to severe TBIs involve more significant brain damage. Symptoms may include loss of consciousness for extended periods, persistent headaches, vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, and difficulty waking up. Cognitive and psychological effects can include confusion, personality changes, depression, and impaired judgment. Severe TBIs can cause permanent disability, coma, or even death.
TBIs are classified based on severity:
- Mild TBI (Concussion): May involve brief loss of consciousness, temporary confusion, headaches, dizziness, and emotional instability.
- Moderate TBI: Longer loss of consciousness, persistent cognitive issues, motor function impairment, and mood disturbances.
- Severe TBI: Prolonged unconsciousness, seizures, loss of motor control, permanent cognitive decline, and a high risk of fatality.
In Pennsylvania car accidents, even mild TBIs can be considered serious injuries under state law if they cause long-term impairment or require extensive medical treatment. If a traumatic brain injury meets the threshold for severity, victims may seek compensation beyond no-fault insurance limits through legal action.
Seeking immediate medical evaluation after a head injury is critical, even if symptoms seem minor. Delayed diagnosis can affect both health outcomes and legal claims in a Pennsylvania personal injury case.
If you suspect a TBI after a car accident, it is important to seek medical evaluation even if symptoms seem minor. This not only supports health outcomes but is also essential for any legal claims related to personal injury. For legal guidance on traumatic brain injury claims, Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. has experienced Western Pennsylvania traumatic brain injury attorneys who can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (724) 658-8535 today for a consultation.
| TBI Severity Classification | Common Symptoms and Complications |
|---|---|
| Mild TBI (Concussion) | Brief loss of consciousness, temporary confusion, headaches, dizziness, emotional instability |
| Moderate TBI | Longer loss of consciousness, persistent cognitive issues, motor function impairment, mood disturbances |
| Severe TBI | Prolonged unconsciousness, seizures, loss of motor control, permanent cognitive decline, high risk of fatality |
