When you suffer an injury in a car accident, it affects every area of your life, not just your commute. This is particularly true when it comes to head injuries, even mild cases. Of course, many people who experience accidents leave the scene thinking that they escaped without serious injuries, only to learn later that they suffered more harm than they initially thought.
Mild traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, are much more dangerous than many victims realize. Because these injuries are “mild,” they allow victims to continue their daily lives without putting them into a coma or killing them outright. Unfortunately, mild TBIs still cause major problems. A car accident victim who suffers a mild TBI and does not seek immediate medical care may experience a number of changes in their temperament and mental capability, often disrupting their professional and personal lives.
If you recently experienced a car accident and have not seen a doctor, you should seek a professional medical examination as soon as you can. Proper medical care and a strong legal strategy can help you focus on your recovery while protecting your professional life and keeping your rights and priorities secure.
Temperamental changes
Mild TBIs commonly change the personality and temperament of the victim, typically for the worse. Often, a victim may suddenly experience volatile reactions to frustrating situations, such as being unable to complete tasks that were easy or familiar before the injury. Not only may the victim lose much of their ability to complete tasks or understand problem-solving issues, they often respond erratically and angrily, which is not welcome in most professional settings.
If an employer does not understand that the victim suffered a brain injury, this may place the victim’s job in danger. Few employers tolerate employees who lash out at coworkers when they make mistakes or misunderstand instructions. If the employer understands that the victim is recovering from an injury, it is much better for all parties.
Trouble communicating
Another common symptom of mild TBIs involves the victim misunderstanding what they read and hear in conversation. In simple terms, mild TBIs shake the brain like a child shakes an etch-a-sketch, making all the sharp lines a bit fuzzy. In many cases, victims retain their knowledge of vocabulary and can read and understand what they hear, but may miss context clues.
This can lead to frustrating miscommunications, which are particularly destructive in professional settings. By acknowledging these issues and addressing them directly, the victim may more easily complete the recovery without alienating employers or coworkers.