The Office of Traffic Safety reports that speeding is the leading cause of car accidents in Nevada. In Las Vegas alone, there’s an average of 55.6 car accidents per day. Various injuries can occur during these accidents, but the potential for head injuries is high.
Concussion
Around 289,000 concussions occur per year because of car accidents. The injury occurs when the brain moves violently within the skull. A jolt to the head or movement that shakes the brain can result in a concussion. Symptoms are headaches, nausea and confusion. Light and noise sensitivity is also possible.
Skull fracture
A skull fracture is when one of the 22 bones in the human skull breaks or cracks. The human skull is strong, but a forceful hit to the head can cause a fracture. Symptoms include nausea, headache, pain and swelling.
Traumatic brain injury
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is generally more threatening than a concussion or a skull fracture. A traumatic brain injury received during a car accident can result in severe long-term or permanent brain damage. A TBI is caused by an extremely forceful bump, jolt or hit to the head or body. An object that pierces the skull and enters the brain will also cause a TBI.
A TBI can possibly result in death or permanent disability. The victim might experience problems with normal brain function. For example, the person might have a personality or behavior shift. They might also experience a problem with communicating or thinking.
Head injuries are always a cause for concern. Although some are more severe than others, they all deserve medical attention following a car accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that seatbelt use can reduce the risk of head injuries during a car accident.