A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs after a sudden injury that causes damage to the brain. It can range from mild, such as a concussion or brief loss of consciousness, to severe, such as permanent brain damage or loss of function. Regardless of severity, a TBI can drastically affect a person’s life and requires prompt attention.
Common Causes and Effects of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries can result from many types of accidents and personal injuries. A motor vehicle accident is a leading cause of TBI, often involving high-impact crashes or collisions. Falls, especially among adults 65 and older, and sports injuries are major contributors. Workplace injuries, such as those in construction or other occupational environments, often involve head injuries that lead to brain damage.
The effects of a TBI vary based on the severity and the part of the brain affected. The following are some expected outcomes of a TBI.
Cognitive effects include memory loss, mental confusion, difficulty concentrating, and challenges in speaking or understanding common concepts. Physical effects include headaches, vision changes, dizziness, and even bleeding in the brain requiring immediate medical intervention.
Behavioral changes can be marked by depression, irritability, aggression, and impulsivity are often reported. Some long-term complications may include loss of motor functions, inability to perform everyday activities, or significant changes to one’s quality of life.
Immediate Steps to Take After a TBI
Taking the right actions immediately following an injury to the head can make a significant difference in recovery and in protecting your legal rights.
Immediately After an Injury:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, you may have a closed head injury or internal damage, such as neurons in the brain being affected.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos, gather witness contact information, and ensure proper reports are filed (e.g., police report for a car accident or workplace documentation).
3. Recognize Symptoms Early: Signs like dizziness, nausea, or a blow to the head should not be ignored. Contact your healthcare provider for a CT scan or other evaluations.
In the Following Days:
1. Monitor Symptoms Closely: Report any new symptoms or worsening issues, such as headaches or balance problems, to your doctor.
2. Start Treatment: A healthcare professional may recommend rehabilitation, rest, or surgery to address issues like blood flow or pressure inside the skull.
3. Keep Records: Track all treatments, diagnoses, and expenses. This can be critical if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
Weeks to Months Later:
1. Continue Rehabilitation: Engage in brain injury rehabilitation programs to aid recovery.
2. Consult Legal Experts: An attorney experienced in personal injury cases can guide you through filing a claim and valuing damages.
Understanding a TBI Lawsuit
A traumatic brain injury lawsuit aims to recover compensation for the harm suffered due to negligence or wrongful conduct. These claims typically involve:
- Establishing Liability: Proving that another party’s negligence caused your TBI. For example, a vehicle accident caused by distracted driving or a workplace injury due to unsafe conditions.
- Documenting Damages: Damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, costs of long-term care, and compensation for pain and suffering.
- Overcoming Challenges: Some symptoms, such as cognitive decline, may take months to appear, complicating the determination of long-term damages.
An attorney can work with medical experts and financial analysts to ensure a comprehensive claim adequately supports your recovery process.
How an Attorney Can Help After a TBI
Traumatic brain injuries require specialized attention, not only from medical professionals but also from experienced legal advocates. Here’s how an attorney can assist:
Accurate Damage Assessment
A skilled brain injury lawyer can evaluate the extent of your injuries, including secondary effects like the inability to return to normal activities or work.
Expert Resources
Collaborating with medical professionals, including specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation, helps establish the full scope of your injury.
Negotiation with Insurers
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Your attorney will advocate for a fair settlement that covers medical costs, ongoing care, and other losses.
Litigation Support
If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, your attorney will prepare your case for trial, presenting evidence such as medical reports and expert testimonies.
Rehabilitation in TBI Recovery
Recovery from a TBI often involves extensive rehabilitation. Depending on the severity, treatment plans may include:
- Physical Therapy. To improve mobility and regain motor functions.
- Occupational Therapy. Helping patients return to work or school through vocational rehabilitation and manage daily activities effectively.
- Cognitive Rehabilitation. Addressing memory issues and problem-solving skills.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend alternative treatments or lifestyle adjustments to prevent symptoms from worsening.
Prevention and Awareness
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that traumatic brain injuries are a significant cause of death and disability in the U.S. Efforts to reduce these injuries include:
Promoting injury prevention measures, such as wearing helmets during sports and using vehicle seatbelts, and encouraging regular check-ups to monitor lingering symptoms following a TBI.
Why Choose Francis Injury for TBI Cases?
At Francis Injury, we understand that a TBI can profoundly impact every aspect of your life. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, personalized representation that prioritizes your recovery. We focus on building trust and delivering results, ensuring that you can concentrate on healing while we handle the legal work of your case.
Contact Us Today If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, call our office at 817-329-9001 or contact us online for a free, fully confidential consultation. Let us help you on the path to recovery and justice. atic brain injury, call our office at 817-329-9001 or contact us online for a free, fully confidential consultation. Let us help you on the path to recovery and justice.