People are often harmed in the aftermath of Minnesota car accidents. Certain types of injuries are more likely to occur in this situation, and those affecting the head can be quite severe.
Concussion
Concussions are perhaps the most common type of head injury suffered by those involved in motor vehicle accidents. It develops when the person suffers trauma after the impact of a collision and their brain shifts inside the skull from one end to the other or from side to side. A concussion can range from mild to moderate or even severe depending on the level of force the brain suffers.
Closed head injury
A closed head injury involves brain trauma, but the skull does not suffer a fracture. This injury can occur when a person violently strikes their head on the steering wheel, dashboard or window. It can also develop when debris or an obstacle flies around in the vehicle and hits the person’s head.
Open head injury
An open head injury develops when a person’s skull is penetrated by an object in a car crash. The object makes direct contact with the brain, causing swelling and bleeding. Different symptoms can occur based on the specific area of the brain affected. For example, if the frontal lobe is impacted, the person can struggle with cognitive problems affecting their memory, emotions and problem-solving ability.
Brain bleeding
Car accidents can also cause victims to develop a brain hemorrhage or hematoma. Both conditions are serious and require immediate medical attention. Hemorrhage can lead to cell damage while hematoma involves bleeding that forms a clot. In some cases, surgery might be necessary.
Regardless of the severity of a car accident, it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention. It could make a difference in your condition.