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Traumatic Brain Injury from a Car Accident in Chicago
When you get behind the wheel in Chicago, you never expect your life to change in a split second. But car accidents happen every day, and one of the most devastating consequences can be a traumatic brain injury (TBI). At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we see firsthand the challenges individuals and families face after a TBI. Understanding how these injuries happen, the symptoms to look for, and your legal options is essential to moving forward after an accident.
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What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and How Does It Happen in Car Accidents?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden physical force damages the brain. In car accidents, TBIs are unfortunately common because of the sheer impact involved. Imagine sitting at a red light when another vehicle slams into you from behind. Even with a seatbelt on, your head can whip forward and strike the steering wheel or window, or it might snap back violently, jostling your brain inside your skull. This rapid movement can cause bruising, bleeding, or tearing of brain tissue.
TBIs in car accidents range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries. Sometimes, the skull is fractured, but you can also suffer a serious brain injury without any visible head wound. In the chaos of a crash, adrenaline can mask symptoms, causing many people to walk away thinking they’re fine—only to experience serious issues hours or days later. This is why it’s so crucial to seek medical attention after any car accident, even if you feel “okay” initially.
Recognizing the Symptoms: When Should You Worry?
Traumatic brain injuries can manifest in subtle ways or with dramatic symptoms, depending on the severity. Some common signs to watch for after a car accident include:
- Persistent headaches or migraines
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Memory loss or confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
- Nausea or vomiting
- Mood swings, irritability, or changes in personality
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking up
If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms after a car crash in Chicago, don’t shrug them off. Sometimes, people attribute symptoms to stress or shock, but they could signal a much deeper issue. Left untreated, a TBI can worsen, leading to long-term disability or even death. Always err on the side of caution and seek immediate medical care if you have any doubts.
The Long-Term Impact of a TBI After a Car Accident
Living with a traumatic brain injury is a journey that extends far beyond the emergency room. For many Chicago residents, a TBI can mean ongoing rehabilitation, therapy, and adjustments to everyday life. Some people recover fully from mild TBIs, but others may struggle with persistent issues like memory loss, difficulty speaking, or changes in behavior.
The emotional toll can be just as significant as the physical one. Individuals with TBIs may feel frustrated, isolated, or anxious about their future. In severe cases, victims may be unable to return to work, care for their families, or enjoy activities they once loved. The financial costs can be staggering, with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and expenses for long-term care or adaptive equipment.
Families and caregivers also feel the impact, as they may need to take on new responsibilities. This ripple effect makes it all the more important to understand your rights and explore your options for support and compensation after a car accident in Chicago.
Your Legal Options: How Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Can Help
After a TBI from a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. This is where experienced car accident injury attorneys can make a difference. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, our team knows Illinois personal injury law inside and out. We’ve helped countless Chicago residents secure the compensation they need to recover and rebuild their lives.
To pursue a claim, you’ll need to show that another party’s negligence caused your accident and resulting TBI. This could mean proving another driver was distracted, under the influence, or violated traffic laws. Our firm handles every aspect of the process—from investigating the accident and gathering medical records to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to court.
We understand the unique challenges of TBI cases. Traumatic brain injuries can be complex, with symptoms that don’t always show up on scans or may fluctuate over time. Our lawyers work closely with medical professionals to document your injuries, demonstrate the impact on your life, and calculate the full extent of your damages, including future care needs and pain and suffering.
Steps to Take After a Suspected TBI in a Chicago Car Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident in Chicago and suspects a traumatic brain injury, quick action is critical. Here’s a roadmap to follow:
1. Seek immediate medical attention. Even if symptoms seem mild, a full evaluation is essential to identify hidden injuries and begin treatment.
2. Document everything. Take notes about your symptoms, keep all medical records, and photograph any visible injuries or damage to your vehicle. This evidence will be invaluable if you pursue a personal injury claim.
3. Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters without legal counsel. Insurance companies may contact you soon after the accident. Remember, their goal is to minimize payouts—not to safeguard your interests. Politely decline to discuss details until you’ve consulted an attorney.
4. Contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. The sooner you reach out to a personal injury lawyer, the more effectively we can protect your rights. Our team will review your case at no charge and guide you through every step of the process, so you can focus on healing.
Dealing with a traumatic brain injury is one of the toughest challenges anyone can face. But with the right medical care and legal support, you can pursue the resources you need to recover as fully as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traumatic Brain Injuries from Car Accidents
How long after a car accident can symptoms of a traumatic brain injury appear?
Symptoms can surface immediately or be delayed for hours, days, or even weeks. That’s why it’s critical not to ignore even minor changes in physical or cognitive function after a car accident.
Can I pursue a personal injury claim if my TBI symptoms are mild or delayed?
Yes. Even if your initial symptoms seem minor, you may have a viable claim if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Document your symptoms and consult an attorney as soon as possible.
What compensation can I receive for a TBI from a car accident in Illinois?
You may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and compensation for future care. Each case is unique; a personal injury lawyer can give you a clearer idea based on your situation.
Do I need to pay upfront to hire Briskman Briskman & Greenberg for my TBI case?
No. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we secure compensation for you. This ensures you can pursue justice without financial stress during your recovery.
Other Head, Neck, & Brain Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
- Post-concussive syndrome from a Car Accident
- Herniated cervical disc from a Car Accident
- Cervical sprain from a Car Accident
- Whiplash from a Car Accident
- Skull fracture from a Car Accident
- Contusion (brain bruise) from a Car Accident
- Traumatic Brain Injury from a Car Accident
- Concussion from a Car Accident
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