Car accidents can change lives in an instant. One moment you may be traveling to your vacation destination or just driving to the grocery store, and the next you could find yourself sitting in a wrecked vehicle waiting on New York law enforcement to arrive on the scene. How can you pick up the pieces and move forward from here?
The aftermath of a car accident is overwhelming. In addition to the physical injuries you may have, you could also be facing significant financial loss, damage to your personal property and emotional trauma. Your recovery can be even more complicated and difficult if you also suffered a traumatic brain injury in the accident. Brain injuries are complex, and you may need different types of support in the following weeks and months.
Signs of a brain injury
It is not always immediately apparent to some people that they have a brain injury. Everyone is different, and the effects of a TBI can differ from person to person. You may not realize that you have a brain injury or how severe your injury is until days or weeks after the accident. Some of the most common signs of a TBI include the following:
- Intense headaches
- Dizzy spells or experiencing loss of balance
- Problems with memory or fatigue
- Sensitivity to sounds and lights
- Changes in mood or lack of energy
- Changes in sleep patterns or concentration
There are some signs that could indicate that a brain injury may be much more serious than a person originally realized. Some of the signs of a severe TBI include
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty awakening
- Nausea and vomiting
- Trouble with speaking or basic movements
- Convulsions, seizures or fluid coming from ears
- Weakness in the limbs
Even a minor TBI can have a major impact on your life. If you are the victim of this type of injury after a car accident, you have the right to pursue the help and support you need to get better and put the pieces of your life back together.
Where should you start?
Do you not have to walk through the recovery process alone. If your accident was the result of the negligent or reckless actions of another person, you have the right to pursue restitution through a personal injury claim. A smart first step in this process is to reach out for legal guidance and to seek a complete evaluation of your case.