Car crashes are very dangerous experiences that can result in life-altering injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe injuries commonly associated with crashes. Despite the brain having the protection of the strong skull bone, the powerful force generated in a motor vehicle collision is more than enough to cause a TBI.
Those involved in crashes can develop moderate to severe brain injuries that permanently alter the structure of the brain and cause a lifetime of medical challenges. There are multiple different ways in which motor vehicle collisions could cause traumatic injuries to the human brain. Those involved in collisions may require evaluation by medical professionals to diagnose and properly treat TBIs.
What are the most common ways that people hurt their brains in car crashes?
Blunt-force trauma
Most drivers understand that they could injure their brains if they hit their heads on something during a crash. People who don’t wear their safety restraints could get thrown from the vehicle and might sustain a TBI as a result. Those who do wear their safety restraints might strike their head on the steering column or other parts of the vehicle during the crash. Blunt-force trauma can cause swelling and bruising inside the skull that can eventually cause permanent damage to the brain.
Violent motions
Anyone who has helped care for a young child is likely familiar with shaken baby syndrome. If a caregiver becomes frustrated and violently shakes an infant, the violent motions can produce brain damage that could cause permanent damage or even death. Brain injuries are a concern for people of all ages during a car crash. When vehicles shake, flip or spin, the violent motions could cause damage to the brain.
Less common injury sources
There are a few other ways that car crashes could cause damage to the brain. People can sustain TBIs caused by penetrating injuries. If flying debris manages to cut through the skull, it could cause permanent damage to the brain. Explosions are rare during car crashes despite how frequently movies and television shows depict exploding vehicles. When explosions do occur, the percussive force that they generate could cause a TBI. Finally, in scenarios involving fire and smoke, oxygen deprivation might potentially lead to anoxic brain injury if people cannot get out of the vehicle quickly enough.
Those with brain injuries may need compensation to cover a lifetime of significant medical expenses. They may also need compensation for lost wages and reduced earning potential. Identifying risk factors for catastrophic car crash injuries can help people assert themselves in an appropriate and timely manner after another driver causes a wreck.