11 Common Head and Brain Injuries from Car Accidents

Table Of Contents Show

1 1. Concussion

2 2. Contusion

3 3. Skull Fracture

4 4. Diffuse Axonal Injury

5 5. Epidural Hematoma

6 6. Subdural Hematoma

7 7. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

8 8. Penetrating Head Injury

9 9. Coup-Contrecoup Injury

10 10. Second-Impact Syndrome

11 11. Post-Concussion Syndrome

12 Frequently Asked Questions

13 Concerned About a Head Injury After a Crash? We Can Help

Car crashes are one of the leading causes of traumatic head injuries in the United States. From minor concussions to life-altering brain damage, these injuries can have serious consequences for your health, career, and future. Recognizing the most common head injuries from car accidents can help you know what to watch for and when to get help.

After a crash, symptoms may appear right away or take days to develop. Whether you hit your head or not, the force of the collision can cause your brain to shake or twist inside your skull. Even a seemingly minor head injury deserves medical attention.

Our New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas car accident attorneys review 11 common types of head and brain injuries from car accidents, how they happen, and why legal support may be essential to your recovery.

For immediate assistance and free consultation, please call (575) 222-1000 or send us an online message today.

1. Concussion

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head. It’s one of the most common injuries in car crashes, even in low-speed impacts.

Symptoms may include:

• Headache,
• Confusion or brain fog,
• Dizziness or nausea,
• Difficulty concentrating, and
• Sensitivity to light or noise.

While many people recover from a concussion within weeks, others may experience symptoms for months. Any concussion should be taken seriously, as repeated injuries can lead to long-term complications.

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2. Contusion

A contusion is a bruise on the brain, usually caused by the brain hitting the inside of the skull. It may occur at the point of impact (coup) or the opposite side (contrecoup).

Symptoms can include:

• Slurred speech,
• Weakness on one side of the body,
• Memory issues, and
• Loss of coordination.

Depending on the severity, treatment can range from rest and monitoring to surgery. Brain contusions are a serious car accident head injury that often requires imaging to diagnose.

3. Skull Fracture

A skull fracture occurs when the force of the crash causes a break in the skull bone. It can happen with or without damage to the brain.

Types of fractures include:

• Linear, which is a thin break in the bone;
• Depressed, which means the bone pressed inward toward the brain; and
• Basilar, where the fracture is at the base of the skull.

Symptoms may include clear fluid leaking from the nose or ears, bruising behind the ears or under the eyes, and visible deformity. A fractured skull often requires hospitalization and ongoing monitoring.

4. Diffuse Axonal Injury

This serious injury occurs when the brain rapidly shifts inside the skull, stretching and tearing the brain’s long nerve fibers (axons). It’s one of the most severe types of head injuries from car accidents and is often associated with loss of consciousness.

Possible outcomes:

• Coma,
• Cognitive impairment, and
• Permanent brain damage.

Diffuse axonal injuries are challenging to detect with standard imaging, but they can have lasting effects on speech, movement, and personality.

5. Epidural Hematoma

An epidural hematoma occurs when blood collects between the skull and the brain’s outer layer (dura mater), usually from a torn artery.

Red flag signs:

• Brief loss of consciousness, followed by a lucid interval;
• Sudden deterioration;
• Pupil dilation on one side; and
• Seizures.

This condition can quickly become fatal without emergency surgery. It’s one of the most dangerous auto accident head injuries and requires immediate intervention.

6. Subdural Hematoma

A subdural hematoma involves bleeding between the dura mater and the brain itself. It may develop gradually over hours or days.

Look for the following symptoms:

• Confusion,
• Slowed thinking,
• Weakness, and
• Drowsiness.

Older adults and people on blood thinners are especially vulnerable. Without timely treatment, pressure on the brain can lead to coma or death.

7. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

This type of bleeding occurs in the space between the brain and the thin tissues covering it. A car crash head injury can cause blood vessels to rupture and leak into this area.

Signs to watch for:

• Sudden, severe headache (“thunderclap” headache);
• Neck stiffness;
• Nausea or vomiting; and
• Light sensitivity.

Some cases resolve with monitoring, but severe hemorrhages require surgery or intensive care.

 

8. Penetrating Head Injury

Sharp objects like glass or metal can puncture the skull during a crash, leading to a penetrating injury.

Potential outcomes:

• Localized brain damage,
• Infection risk,
• Seizures, and
• Loss of function depending on location.

These injuries are medical emergencies. Even with prompt treatment, they often result in lasting deficits or disability.

9. Coup-Contrecoup Injury

This injury occurs when the brain hits one side of the skull (coup) and then rebounds to hit the opposite side (contrecoup). These double-impact injuries are common in high-speed or rollover crashes.

Possible symptoms:

• Balance problems,
• Visual disturbances,
• Speech difficulties, and
• Memory loss.

Because two areas of the brain are injured, these cases can be especially complex to diagnose and treat.

10. Second-Impact Syndrome

This rare but deadly condition happens when someone sustains a second brain injury before the first one has fully healed. It’s most common in younger individuals, but can happen to anyone.

Symptoms can escalate quickly, including:

• Brain swelling,
• Respiratory failure,
• Coma, and
• Death.

Second-impact syndrome underscores the importance of not returning to normal activities too soon after a car accident head injury, especially if symptoms persist.

11. Post-Concussion Syndrome

Some people experience prolonged symptoms for weeks or months after a mild concussion. That is known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS).

Symptoms may include:

• Persistent headaches,
• Mood changes such as anxiety, depression,
• Difficulty sleeping, and
• Trouble focusing. 

PCS can affect your ability to work, drive, or care for your family. It’s often underestimated by insurers, making legal guidance critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Common Head and Brain Injuries From Car Accidents?

Common head and brain injuries from car accidents include concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), skull fractures, brain bleeding, brain swelling, contusions, and diffuse axonal injuries.

What Are the Symptoms of a Brain Injury After a Car Accident?

Brain injury symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, nausea, vision changes, mood swings, fatigue, sensitivity to light, loss of consciousness, and difficulty concentrating.

Can a Brain Injury Show Up Days After a Crash?

Yes. Some brain injury symptoms do not appear immediately after a collision. Delayed symptoms may include worsening headaches, confusion, sleep disturbances, mood changes, nausea, and memory problems.

Should I See a Doctor for a Head Injury After a Car Accident?

Yes. Even seemingly minor head injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional. Prompt treatment can help identify concussions, internal bleeding, swelling, and other serious conditions before they worsen.

What Compensation Can I Recover for a Brain Injury Claim?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future medical care.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some people recover within weeks, while others experience symptoms that last months or even years. Severe traumatic brain injuries may require ongoing treatment and rehabilitation.

What Evidence Helps Prove a Brain Injury Claim?

Medical records, diagnostic imaging, physician reports, witness statements, accident reports, and expert testimony can all help establish the existence and impact of a traumatic brain injury after a car accident.

Should I Hire a Lawyer for a Brain Injury After a Car Accident?

Yes. A car accident lawyer can help gather evidence, work with medical experts, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of your brain injury and related losses.

Concerned About a Head Injury After a Crash? We Can Help

If you’ve suffered one of these common head injuries from car accidents, you need more than just medical care. You need someone who will fight for the full value of your recovery. Head and brain injuries can change your life in an instant, and insurance companies often try to minimize how serious they really are.

At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., we don’t let that happen. Our team offers aggressive representation backed by courtroom experience, deep local knowledge of New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona laws, and a personalized approach that treats every client like more than just a case number. From your first call to the final resolution, we’ll keep you informed, supported, and in control of your case.

If you or a loved one sustained an auto accident head injury, contact us online or call (575) 222-1000 today. We’re here to help you protect your future and won’t back down when it matters most.

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