The head is one of the most vulnerable parts of the body in the event of a pedestrian accident involving a motor vehicle, making the possibility of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) relatively high. These injuries range from so-called “minor” concussions to severe damage that can lead to a lifelong disability and ongoing medical care.
If you or a loved one have sustained a brain injury in a pedestrian accident in Tennessee, you may have the right to pursue compensation from the person responsible. Read on for important information about how Nashville pedestrian accident claims work and what to keep in mind as you consider your next steps.
How Do Brain Injuries Happen in Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrians have no barrier between their body and the vehicle that hits them. Some of the ways that a brain injury can result from a collision include:
- Striking the vehicle on impact
- Hitting the pavement after being knocked to the ground
- Being jolted violently enough to cause the brain to move inside the skull, even without a direct blow
Brain injuries don’t always show symptoms right away. A person might walk away from the scene feeling shaken but otherwise fine, only to develop things like headaches and confusion down the line. That’s one reason why seeking medical attention immediately after a pedestrian accident is important, as is the fact that medical records can help bolster your legal claim.
Types of Brain Injuries in Pedestrian Accident Cases
The severity of a brain injury can vary dramatically depending on factors like the speed of the vehicle, the angle of impact, and where the pedestrian’s head makes contact. Some of the most common types include:
- Concussions, which are considered mild TBIs but can still cause lasting symptoms if not properly treated
- Contusions, which involve bruising of the brain tissue itself
- Diffuse axonal injuries, which occur when the brain shifts inside the skull and nerve fibers are torn
- Intracranial hemorrhages, which involve bleeding inside the skull that can create dangerous pressure on the brain
- Skull fractures, which may or may not accompany an underlying brain injury
More severe TBIs can result in permanent cognitive impairment as well as other lasting consequences.
What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Brain Injury Claim?
Brain injuries often lead to some of the highest-value personal injury claims because of the long-term impact they have on every part of a person’s life. If your claim is successful, you may be able to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages like:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
In cases involving severe TBIs, future care costs alone can sometimes reach into the millions of dollars. This makes it crucial to ensure that all of your damages are properly calculated.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Tennessee
A brain injury from a pedestrian accident can upend your entire life in an instant. If a negligent driver caused your injury, you deserve compensation that reflects the true scope of what you’re dealing with. Call Woodard Injury Law today at (615) 640-3648 or message us online to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.