Basics of Blunt Force Head Trauma

While “blunt force head trauma” is often associated with assault or other acts of violence, it can be caused by any force to the skull which does not penetrate it, including in auto accidents. In fact, auto accidents are the leading cause of blunt force head trauma according to the National Institute of Health, followed by athletic competition, physical assault, and falling accidents. If you’ve been injured in an accident due to negligence, seek full medical treatment and speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

Generally, blunt force head trauma can cause two types of injuries: concussions and contusions. Concussions are caused by shaking of the brain, while contusions involve direct injury to the brain, and some severe cases of blunt force trauma cause damage to the opposite side of the brain from the impact, known as “contrecoup.” This often occurs when the head is in motion and strikes a stationary object, such as head-to-dashboard impact in a car accident or a head-to-head collision in a contact sport.

Symptoms of these injuries may arise immediately or not for days or even weeks, and serious cases involving traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have long-term or permanent effects on normal brain function.

Common symptoms of TBI include:

– Partial paralysis in one or more limbs
– Blurred vision
– Confusion
– Severe headaches
– Convulsions
– Lost coordination
– Drop in blood pressure
– Irritability/changes in personality

Long-term effects of TBI may include chronic headaches, language/speech problems, altered or lost vision, and coma, and the damage is often worse in those involving internal bleeding of the brain.

If you or a loved one has suffered a head or brain injury in an accident, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.