The most common cause of closed head trauma in a motor vehicle accident is the acceleration-deceleration of the brain, also known as whiplash. Acceleration-deceleration of the brain occurs when the head is accelerated and then stopped suddenly, as in an automobile wreck. The change in velocity can traumatize the brain without the surface of the head ever contacting another object. To appreciate the potential complexities of acceleration-deceleration on the brain, it is essential to understand the implications of these forces on the brain’s mechanisms.
Acceleration-Deceleration Injury Causes
So, how does acceleration-deceleration result in an injury to the brain? A concussion can occur when the brain oscillates against the inside of the skull. Sudden starts or stops of a vehicle can cause this concussing oscillation without either a physical blow to the head or a loss of consciousness. And, while a seat belt may prevent physical impact on the body, it may increase the acceleration-deceleration effects on the brain.
When the acceleration-deceleration force is strong enough to cause the brain to directly impact the front part of the skull and then propel it back to slam into the opposite end, the brain can be bruised in two focal areas. This is referred to as coup and contrecoup trauma. Moreover, when the brain suffers even more significant widespread trauma, such as in a motor vehicle accident that causes a person’s brain to oscillate many times inside the skull, this is called a “diffuse axonal” injury. Diffuse axonal injuries often come with grave implications, ranging from mild traumatic brain injuries to the most severe.
Acceleration-deceleration forces can also cause brain damage from rotational trauma. Rotational trauma occurs when the brain moves at a different velocity than the skull, and its effects intensify if the force rapidly twists the brain. Several kinds of damage can occur to the brain from rotational trauma.
Implications of Acceleration-Deceleration Injuries
The implications of acceleration-deceleration “whiplash” forces on the brain should never be taken lightly. Mild traumatic brain injuries negatively affect your livelihood, including health, happiness, mobility, and functions in the household and society. A traumatic brain injury can also have a significant impact on the injured person’s family and loved ones. Caring for someone with a traumatic brain injury can be expensive, time-consuming, and take outstanding emotional and physical tolls. That is why it is crucial to have a trusted advocate on your side.
Representation for Car Accident Injuries
The North Carolina attorneys of Maginnis Howard handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no attorneys’ fees unless and until we recover a settlement or verdict. Our personal injury attorneys have decades of experience handling complex cases and go to trial whenever necessary. We have three conveniently located offices in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Fayetteville. You may visit the closest location, and our attorneys can also travel to meet you. Use our contact page to contact an intake specialist and set up a free consultation.
