Car accidents happen every day in the Greater Toronto Area, on highways, and on busy city streets. People are left with serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment, and their lives can change in an instant.
One of the most concerning types of injuries seen in crashes is a brain injury. These can be caused by a forceful blow to the head – called traumatic brain injury (TBI) – or a cutoff of oxygen to the brain. Different types of brain injuries seen in car crashes include:
Concussion
During a crash, a person’s head may strike the windshield or other part of the car, or be jerked back and forth with great force. Either scenario can result in a concussion. While considered a minor brain injury, symptoms can be very debilitating. These symptoms include headache, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, nausea, and changes in mood or behaviour.
Contusions
A motor vehicle crash can result in a brain contusion, or bruising of the brain tissue. This can happen when the head strikes the steering wheel or windshield, or when the head is shaken violently during the force of impact, causing the brain to crash into the inside of the skull. Depending on the severity of the injury, symptoms can include loss of consciousness, headaches, fatigue, and confusion.
Penetrating injuries
During some severe crashes, glass or other objects can be thrown at high velocity. If they hit a person’s head, they can penetrate the skull. This can lead to a serious brain injury that impairs motor function and communication skills. Surgery, medication, and physical therapy are often required.
Anoxic brain injuries
In some cases, a crash victim can suffer an injury that disrupts blood flow to the brain. This causes an anoxic brain injury in which the brain does not receive enough oxygen in order to function. Lack of oxygen can cause brain damage within minutes. The long-term effects can include problems with mobility, memory, speech, and vision.
Brain injury victims have legal rights
The medical expenses for treating a brain injury can add up quickly. They can include the cost of emergency medical services, imaging tests, lab tests, surgery, hospitalization, medication, physical therapy, and home health care. Victims may need treatment from doctors, specialists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other professionals. These medical expenses can quickly become overwhelming.
If you suffered a brain injury in a crash caused by a negligent driver, you deserve financial compensation. But the legal process can be complicated.
That’s why you need an experienced Toronto car accident lawyer to fight for you. At Smitiuch Injury Law, our lawyers know how to build strong cases that get results. We investigate your crash to get the facts and fight for compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages such as pain and suffering.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation. One of our lawyers can review the details of your case and discuss your legal options. Our officers are located in Toronto, Brantford, and Simcoe.