Truck accidents cause some of the most catastrophic injuries due to the massive size and weight of a commercial truck compared to the average passenger vehicle. In most cases, it is the occupants of the passenger vehicle involved in the crash that suffer the most severe injuries, ranging from broken bones and spinal cord injuries to serious lacerations and internal injuries. Among the most common injuries caused by truck accidents are head and brain injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Depending on the force of impact and the severity of the accident, a brain injury can range from mild to severe. If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury in a truck accident, it is highly recommended that you contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Truck accidents are one of the leading causes of brain injuries. Yet, they are preventable if the truck driver and other motorists on the road obey the rules of the road, pay attention to other vehicles in the vicinity, and avoid unsafe driving behaviors like distracted or drowsy driving.
The following are examples of the most common types of brain injuries that can occur if you are involved in a serious truck accident:
- Diffuse axonal injuries (DAIs): This occurs when the brain is subjected to the extreme force associated with rapid acceleration or deceleration. Common symptoms of DAIs include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Cognitive deficits
- Sensory disturbances
- Motor impairments
- Coma
- Changes in behavior or personality
- Persistent vegetative state
- Cerebral hemorrhages: This is a type of stroke that occurs when there is bleeding in the brain due to head trauma. This is a serious, often life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include:
- Sudden, severe headache
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Numbness or weakness of one side of the body or face
- Loss of vision or blurred vision
- Seizures
- Confusion or changes in mental status
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- In severe cases, coma
- Concussions: This is caused by a severe blow to the head, which causes the brain to hit the inside of the skull. Symptoms of a concussion may not be apparent right away, but they may develop and worsen over time. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention:
- Headache or pressure on the head
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Mood changes
- Sensitivity to light
- Memory problems
- Sleep disturbances
- Contusions: These are bruises or localized bleeding in the brain. They often cause swelling and pressure on the brain, which can cause a range of long-term health complications if they are not diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Symptoms are similar to concussions and can also include seizures.
- Penetrating brain injuries (PBIs): This is an extremely serious injury that occurs when a foreign object pierces the skull and injures the brain tissue. They are considered severe TBIs and are often fatal. Symptoms include bleeding or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaking from the site of penetration, loss of consciousness, respiratory difficulties, and seizures.
What Are the Effects of a Brain Injury?
Depending on the severity of a brain injury and the area of the brain that was affected, the consequences of a brain injury can be devastating. The following are examples of the impact that a brain injury can have:
- Cognitive abilities: You may struggle concentrating, remembering simple information, reading and writing, or expressing thoughts. This can be extremely frustrating and upsetting, mainly if the cognitive abilities do not return quickly.
- Ability to return to work: If your physical, mental, or cognitive impairments make it impossible to concentrate, use technology, or express simple thoughts or ideas, this will affect your ability to return to work and earn an income.
- Physical impairments: A brain injury can cause hearing difficulties, coordination issues, vision changes, and other physical impairments.
- Personality changes: Brain injuries can also cause temporary or permanent behavior changes, including aggression, recklessness, and a shortened temper, which can strain relationships with family and friends.
What Damages Am I Entitled to for a Brain Injury Caused by a Truck Accident?
A serious brain injury will likely require extensive, ongoing medical treatment. These costs will start to accumulate very quickly. However, if the truck driver or another negligent party was at fault for causing the accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. An experienced truck accident lawyer will help you collect the evidence you need to prove that the negligent party was responsible for causing the accident that resulted in your injuries. A successful settlement outcome will ensure that you recover the following damages:
- All medical expenses associated with your injuries, including hospital bills, follow-up doctor appointments, physical therapy, prescription medications, and long-term care.
- Costs of future treatment needed.
- Lost income if your injuries prevent you from being able to return to work for an extended period or permanently.
- Loss of future earning capacity.
- Property damage.
- Pain and suffering due to the trauma of the accident, the long-term effects of the injury, and any permanent impairments that you have.
Our Cincinnati Truck Accident Lawyers at Wolterman Law Office Represent Victims of Truck Accident-Related Brain Injuries
If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury in a truck accident, do not hesitate to contact our Cincinnati truck accident lawyers at Wolterman Law Office. We will help you navigate every step of the claims process, determine who is responsible for causing the accident, and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 513-488-1135 or contact us online. Our office is located in Loveland, Ohio, where we serve clients in Hamilton County, Fairfield, Norwood, and Forest Park.