Motor vehicle crashes are a significant source of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even a crash that does not appear particularly serious can cause a concussion or other brain injury, particularly when a person’s head and brain are subjected to sudden acceleration, deceleration, or impact.
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force causes an injury to the brain. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries that result in permanent disability and require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
“Brain injuries can have consequences that aren’t immediately obvious after a crash,” said attorney Caleb Fleschner. “Taking basic precautions before and during a trip can reduce the risk of a serious injury, but it’s also important to recognize the signs of a possible brain injury and seek medical attention after a crash.”
A traumatic brain injury can affect a person’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Possible symptoms include:
Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others can become noticeable hours or even days after a crash.
If you or someone in your vehicle experiences symptoms that could indicate a brain injury after a collision, seek medical attention promptly. Emergency medical care may be necessary for severe or worsening symptoms.
While not every crash can be prevented, drivers and passengers can take steps to reduce the risk of serious injury.
Seat belts are one of the most important safety features in a vehicle. Drivers and passengers should wear a properly positioned seat belt every time they travel, even on short trips.
The lap belt should sit low across the hips, while the shoulder belt should cross the chest and shoulder rather than being placed behind the back or under the arm.
Children should be properly restrained in an age- and size-appropriate car seat or booster seat. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable child-restraint laws when installing and using a car seat.
As children grow, their restraint needs change. Make sure the car seat or booster remains appropriate for the child’s current size and developmental stage.
Distracted driving can prevent a driver from noticing a hazard or reacting in time to avoid a collision.
Common distractions include:
Keep your attention on the road and avoid using your phone while driving.
Alcohol, recreational drugs, and some medications can impair reaction time, judgment, coordination, and concentration. If you have consumed alcohol or taken a substance that may impair your ability to drive safely, arrange for another way to get home.
Speed can significantly affect the severity of a collision. Follow posted speed limits and reduce your speed when conditions require it, including during heavy rain, snow, ice, fog, or other situations that reduce visibility or traction.
Maintaining an appropriate distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead gives you more time to react if traffic suddenly slows or stops.
Following too closely increases the likelihood of a rear-end collision and reduces the amount of time available to respond to unexpected situations.
Regular vehicle maintenance can help prevent crashes caused by mechanical problems. Pay attention to your tires, brakes, lights, windshield, mirrors, and other important safety equipment.
Motor vehicle safety isn’t limited to passenger cars. People riding motorcycles, bicycles, and other vehicles should use appropriate protective equipment, including properly fitted helmets when applicable.
Even when you feel relatively well after a collision, it’s important to pay attention to how you feel in the hours and days that follow.
If you were involved in a crash:
A serious traumatic brain injury can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life. Victims may face medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, changes in their ability to work, and difficulty performing activities they previously handled without assistance.
Family members may also have to take on caregiving responsibilities or adjust to significant changes in their loved one’s personality, abilities, or independence.
At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, we’ve seen the impact serious brain injuries can have on victims and their families. Our Terre Haute personal injury lawyers help injured individuals and their families understand their legal options following serious motor vehicle crashes.
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motor vehicle crash, contact our team for an initial consultation. We can discuss the circumstances of the crash and help you understand your options.
Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin
N/a
The financial burden that often comes with a serious injury can be too much for many people to bear. Unexpected medical debt, damaged personal property, and the sudden loss of income can impact the budgets of most families. The good news is that a successful injury claim could help reduce that financial strain after a serious accident. Get in touch with a Terre Haute personal injury lawyer with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin to learn more.
Copyright ©2026 Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin,
