Symptoms of Brain Bleed After a Car Accident

Car accidents can change your life in an instant. Some injuries are obvious right away–broken bones, cuts, bruises. But others, like a brain bleed, can be far more dangerous because the symptoms don’t always show up immediately. Many people walk away from a crash feeling “okay,” only to end up in the hospital hours or days later with life-threatening complications.

That’s why it’s so important to know the warning signs. And if your injury happened because of someone else’s carelessness, a car accident lawyer can help you get the medical care and financial compensation you deserve.

What is a brain bleed?

Bleeding inside or close to the brain is sometimes referred to as “intracranial hemorrhage” in medical circles. A person may experience the development of this condition following a catastrophic injury, such as the intense impact one would feel in a car accident. It’s possible for the brain to move violently within the skull when the head is subjected to a powerful blow or quick deceleration. This can result in the tearing of blood vessels, which can then lead to hemorrhage.

There are several types of brain bleeds, including:

• Epidural hematoma: Bleeding between the outer membrane of the brain (dura mater) and the skull.
• Subdural hematoma: Between the dura mater and the brain itself, there is bleeding.
• Intracerebral hemorrhage: This causes bleeding to enter the brain tissue directly.

Every kind might have major effects and needs quick medical intervention.

Why brain bleeds after a car accident are so dangerous

The possible delay in the development of symptoms is one of the most concerning elements of a brain bleed. People sometimes report feeling okay right after an injury, but then experience severe symptoms hours or days later. The progressive buildup of blood, which puts pressure on the brain, is responsible for this lag.

Without prompt treatment, the increased intracranial pressure can lead to:

• Permanent brain damage: The pressure can deprive brain cells of oxygen, causing them to die.
• Coma: Severe pressure can impair vital brain functions, leading to loss of consciousness.
• Death: In extreme cases, untreated brain bleeds can be fatal.

Given these risks, it’s crucial to monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention after any head trauma, even if you initially feel uninjured.

Common symptoms of a brain bleed after a car accident

Recognizing the symptoms of a brain bleed can be lifesaving. These symptoms can be categorized into physical, cognitive, and sensory manifestations.

Physical symptoms:

• Severe headache: A sudden, intense headache that may worsen over time.
• Nausea or vomiting: Unexplained nausea or repeated vomiting can indicate increased pressure in the brain.
• Seizures: The onset of seizures without a prior history is a significant red flag.
• Weakness or numbness: Particularly on one side of the body, suggesting localized brain damage.
• Difficulty walking or loss of balance: Coordination issues can arise from pressure on areas of the brain responsible for movement.

Cognitive or emotional symptoms:

• Confusion or difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing or sudden forgetfulness.
• Memory loss: Especially concerning events surrounding the accident.
• Slurred speech: Difficulty articulating words or forming coherent sentences.
• Drowsiness: An unusual urge to sleep or difficulty staying awake.
• Personality changes: Increased irritability, mood swings, or depression.

Sensory symptoms:

• Blurred or double vision: Visual disturbances indicating pressure on optic pathways.
• Sensitivity to light or sound: Heightened reactions to stimuli.
• Unequal pupil size: A noticeable difference in pupil dilation is a medical emergency.

It’s important to note that these symptoms might not appear immediately and can develop progressively. Therefore continuous monitoring after a head injury is essential.

Mississippi law: why prompt medical attention matters

In Mississippi, seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident is not only vital for health reasons but also for legal considerations. The state follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule (MS Code § 11-7-15 (2024)), meaning that if an injured party is found partially at fault, their compensation can be reduced proportionally. Delaying medical evaluation can be construed as negligence, potentially diminishing the compensation you might be entitled to receive.

Furthermore, Mississippi’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the injury (MS Code § 15-1-49 (2024)). However, specific circumstances can alter this timeframe, making prompt action essential to preserve your legal rights.

How a car accident lawyer can help after a brain injury

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident, especially one involving a brain injury, can be overwhelming. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, and the legal complexities can be daunting. Engaging a car accident lawyer can provide several advantages:

• Case evaluation: Assessing the merits of your claim and estimating potential compensation.
• Evidence collection: Gathering medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to build a strong case.
• Negotiation: Communicating with insurance companies to seek fair settlements.
• Litigation: Representing your interests in court if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached.

An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact a car accident lawyer today

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is challenging enough. Worrying about medical bills, lost wages, and unforeseen injuries like a brain bleed adds to the stress. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury after a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may have legal options. A car accident lawyer can help protect your rights, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and fight to secure the compensation you need for recovery.

At Merkel & Cocke, our team of seasoned attorneys brings over 200 years of collective legal experience to the table. Our firm has a proven track record of handling complex personal injury cases, including those involving traumatic brain injuries.

Contact Merkel & Cocke today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.