Maison Law helps people in Porterville when they’re injured in car accidents. It’s incredibly difficult to think about, but any car accident can result in serious, life-altering traumatic brain injuries (TBI). You never want to be in this situation, but if you are, our team can help you. Reach out for a free consultation to learn more.
What Types of TBIs Could Happen to Me After a Car Accident?
You don’t need to hit your head to suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a car accident—but it certainly makes it more likely. In a serious accident around Porterville, your brain can be injured in several different ways, even if there’s no visible wound. According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), are some of the most common types of TBIs that can easily happen in a car accident.:
- Concussions – A sudden jolt or blow to the head–like hitting the steering wheel–can shake your brain and cause a concussion. You might feel dazed, get a headache, or forget what happened. Even mild symptoms should be checked out by a doctor or specialist.
- Brain bleeds (Hemorrhaging) – A strong impact can cause bleeding inside the brain. This is serious and may lead to vomiting, seizures, or passing out. It needs emergency care right away.
- Blood clots (Hematomas) – When your brain hits the inside of your skull during a crash, blood can pool and clot. This can cause intense headaches or unconsciousness. Larger clots may need surgery.
- Skull fractures – Your skull can crack if your head hits something hard during a wreck. Signs include swelling, bruising, or bleeding from the nose or ears. Some heal on their own, but others can be more serious.
- Brain swelling (Edema) – Head trauma can make the brain swell, putting pressure inside the skull. This can affect your thinking or mood, and may cause nausea or headaches. It’s dangerous if not treated quickly.
Every brain injury is different. Some symptoms might show up right away–others may take days or even weeks. And even if a TBI seems “mild,” it can still change your ability to work, think clearly, or enjoy daily life the way you used to.
What Do I Need to Do After My Car Accident If I Have a TBI?
No two car accidents are exactly the same–but again, even a “minor” car accident can lead to a TBI. Whether you were rear-ended on Olive Avenue or involved in a head-on collision outside city limits, a TBI usually makes everything harder to deal with. Still, there are a few key steps that can protect your health and your injury claim:
- Call 911 – Always report the accident by calling 911. If you feel dizzy, disoriented, or confused, don’t wait. EMTs can check you out and the police will help document what happened. Also, get yourself and your vehicle out of the road if you can. If you’re not able to do that, ask a bystander to help. This keeps you safe and makes it easier for the ambulance to get to you.
- Exchange information – Make sure to get contact and insurance details from the other driver or anyone else involved. If you’re too shaken up, ask someone to help. And remember–don’t apologize or admit fault, even if you’re just trying to be polite.
- Take pictures or videos – If you can, take pictures and videos of your car, the other vehicles, the crash scene, and any visible injuries. These details matter later when filing a claim.
- Get more medical help – Even if you don’t feel hurt, go to the ER or see a neurologist. A TBI might not show symptoms right away, but early diagnosis is key.
- Keep your records – Save everything: medical bills, hospital discharge papers, the police report, and anything from insurance. This paperwork helps show how serious your injury really is.
Because TBIs affect how you think and process information, it can be hard to keep track of all this. That’s where legal support can help. We make sure you’re not left trying to deal with an insurance company that might downplay your injury or pressure you to settle too fast.
How Does a TBI Claim Work After a Car Accident in Porterville?
There’s no denying that a TBI in a Porterville car accident is overwhelming–both physically and financially. You may be out of work, dealing with medical bills, and unsure about what happens next. That’s where an injury claim comes in. You can usually get financial support in one of two ways:
- An insurance claim – This route is usually quicker, but insurance companies often try to settle for less than you truly need–especially in cases involving brain injuries.
- A personal injury lawsuit – This path takes longer but may lead to better results. It can cover more of your costs and suffering, especially if your injury has long-term effects (which it probably will.)
Either way you go, your claim is going to cover your “damages.” This is the legal term for your losses, but when you file, you can potentially recover things like:
- Medical costs tied to your TBI – This includes everything from emergency room treatment and hospital stays to specialist visits, rehab, and ongoing care you may need to manage your brain injury.
- Income you’ve lost – If your TBI has kept you from working–whether for a few weeks or permanently–your damages might include lost wages and missed job opportunities.
- Damage to your car or other property – If the accident damages your vehicle or anything else of value, you can get costs for repairs or replacement of this property.
- Physical and emotional struggles – TBIs often come with pain, confusion, memory problems, or emotional changes. So part of your settlement could involve costs for that.
- Changes to your daily life – If your injury keeps you from doing the things you used to enjoy–working, caring for your family, or simply feeling like yourself—part of your damages could involve these changes.
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file your injury claim—so don’t wait too long to take action.
Get Help After a TBI in a Porterville Car Accident
At Maison Law, we know how traumatic brain injuries can turn your life upside down. If you or someone in your family has suffered a TBI in a Porterville crash, we’re here to support you. We’ll help you get the care, documentation, and financial support you need to move forward. Reach out for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand what comes next.
