Low Speed Collisions and Traumatic Brain Injuries: Part II

Motor Vehicle Accidents One of the Most Common Causes of TBI

Yesterday I wrote about low-speed vehicle collisions and their ability to cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).  Today I will continue my discussion of TBIs, their relation to car accidents, and their long-term effects on individuals who have suffered one.  Statistics suggest that motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of TBIs, and can range from mild to severe.  However, the term “mild” is a misnomer, as even a mild TBI can lead to permanent brain damage.  These “mild” TBIs can result from accidents that occur at speeds ranging from as little as 15 to 20 mph, or so-called “low-speed accidents”.

How a TBI Can Occur in a Low-Speed Accident

The Centers for Disease Control defines a TBI as “”any bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts normal brain function.”  Thus, a TBI can occur in a low-speed accident just as in a high-speed accident because the brain can jostle or knock against the inside of the skull in either case.  In fact, a person who is hit from behind by a vehicle traveling at a low speed can experience whiplash (which can also result in serious neck injury).  The whiplash can also lead to a mild TBI as the brain makes contact with the skull and absorbs the impact of the crash.

TBIs Stometimes Difficult to Detect

Unfortunately, someone in a car accident can fail to realize they have a TBI.  This is particularly true for those involved in low-speed collisions where neither vehicle may have sustained much visible damage.  Individuals with mild TBIs can walk around, seemingly behaving normally, but still have a TBI.  This is why it is so important for those who have been involved in car accidents to seek medical attention and evaluation as soon as possible following any type of collision.  Even though a person might look normal, they could develop life-threatening problems from a TBI.