You have probably heard the term “blunt force head trauma to the head” while watching the news about a car accident that happened the day before. But, what is blunt force trauma to the head? A blunt force trauma is a type of bodily injury that occurs when we collide with a blunt item or surface but the surface of the afflicted organ does not break or become punctured.

If we specifically talk about a blunt force trauma to the head, we are referring to the impact that someone’s head suffers against a blunt object or vice versa, but that does not penetrate the skull. Blunt force head trauma to the head can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

This injury can be very dangerous depending on the severity of the collision. Its effects may take a few days to wear off, but in other circumstances, victims may suffer long-term problems. Different events can cause blunt force traumas but they are usually associated with car accidents. 

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is damaged by a sudden, external, physical assault. It is one of the leading causes of adult disability and death.

TBI is a broad term that refers to a wide range of lesions to the brain. The injury might be localized (limited to one part of the brain) or diffuse (more than one brain area is affected). A brain injury can range in severity from a moderate concussion to serious types of injury that result in coma or even death.

What are the 4 types of non-penetrating traumatic brain injuries?

Blunt force trauma to the head injuries can be broken down into four major categories: Contusion: A contusion is a bruise on the brain. A concussion produces internal bleeding and edema in the brain near the point where the brain was impacted. Contusions can arise as a result of a skull fracture or blood clots.

Concussion

A blow to the head is frequently the cause of a concussion. Concussions can also be caused by violent shaking of the head and upper body. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that impairs brain function.

Headaches and issues with focus, memory, balance, and coordination are common side effects. Concussions are not considered severe injuries because the effects normally disappear after a few days.

Hematoma

An intracranial hematoma happens when blood vessels rupture inside the brain as a result of a blunt force trauma to the head. As the blood starts collecting in the skull, the intracranial pressure increases pressing on the brain. This head injury can be extremely dangerous. Treatment options include surgery to decrease the blood pressure inside the skull.

Diffuse axonal injury

Also known as DAI, diffuse axonal injury is one of the most severe brain injuries. DAI is caused by tearing the brain’s axons as the brain shifts and rotates inside the skull. Torn tissue can die and the trauma may cause the brain to swell, damaging soft tissue even more. DAI typically results in unconsciousness and brain damage. 

What is the most common cause of blunt trauma to the head?

Several different events can cause blunt force trauma to the head. Nonetheless, car accidents are the leading cause of blunt trauma to the head. Other causes of blunt trauma to the head include attacks or assaults, falls, and sports injuries.

What are the effects of blunt force trauma to the head?

Depending on the degree of the damage, a person may have a variety of symptoms following a blunt force trauma injury. Some injuries are considered primary, while others are considered secondary.

Primary injuries are those that occur immediately due to an accident. Secondary injuries are those that manifest themselves over time. This amount of time can be rather long in some circumstances, for example, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) can take more than 10 years to manifest.

Here are some of the most common symptoms experienced by people who suffered a blunt force trauma to the head:

• Headaches or migraines
• Blurred vision
• Slurred speech
• Loss of consciousness
• Loss of balance
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Memory loss
• Vomiting
• Loss of coordination
• Dilated pupils
• Mood swings
• Double vision
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Changes in blood pressure 

How do I know if I have blunt force trauma?

If your head was recently struck by an object and you are experiencing any of the symptoms indicated above, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Blunt force injuries can get worse over time, particularly if left untreated.

What should I do if I believe I have suffered a traumatic brain injury?

If you believe you have suffered a traumatic brain injury you should tell your doctor immediately. A physical examination following a motor vehicle accident may reveal an injury you were unaware of. X-rays and MRIs are common exams used by doctors to determine the type of traumatic brain damage you sustained.

Can I file a lawsuit over traumatic brain Injuries?

It is definitely possible to file a lawsuit over traumatic brain injuries. With the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney, you can collect compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other out-of-pocket expenditures. A traumatic brain injury can be a terrifying experience that can become very costly and impact your life permanently. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, seeking legal counseling is crucial.

If you suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of another person’s negligence, please contact Greenberg & Stein P.C. Our attorneys have represented individuals who have suffered a variety of injuries. We’ve helped a lot of car accident victims, slip and fall accident victims, and assault victims get compensated for their losses. To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys to discuss your case, call us at 212-681-2535.

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