Brain injuries, whether mild or traumatic, are among the most serious and life-altering injuries one can sustain. They not only affect the victim but can have profound implications for their loved ones. Understanding the nature of these injuries and the comprehensive support a traumatic brain injury lawyer can provide is vital for anyone navigating these challenging circumstances.
What are Traumatic Brain Injuries?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) encompasses a broad spectrum of brain injuries that range in severity from mild to severe.
Here are the key differences between a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and other forms of TBI:
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI)
An mTBI, often referred to as a concussion, involves a temporary change in brain function due to a blow or jolt to the head.
- Symptoms: Symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, fatigue, and temporary loss of consciousness. These symptoms typically resolve within days to months but can persist longer in some cases
- Prognosis: mTBIs generally do not result in long-term brain damage or death, although they can still significantly impact a person's quality of life temporarily.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI is a broader category that includes penetrating and non-penetrating injuries. It involves more extensive damage to the brain, which can be due to a violent blow, impact, or penetrating injury.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of moderate to severe TBI include prolonged loss of consciousness, persistent headaches, vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, profound confusion, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and sound, mood changes, and loss of coordination. Severe TBIs can lead to long-term complications or death.
In children, you may also look for symptoms such as loss of interest in a favorite toy or activity, loss of an acquired skill, changes in nursing or eating habits, or loss of balance.
- Prognosis: Severe TBIs often result in permanent brain damage, disabilities, and significant changes in an individual's ability to function independently.
In summary, while both mild and severe TBIs affect brain function, the severity, duration of symptoms, and long-term impacts vary significantly.
Common Causes of Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can occur in a variety of situations, with some of the most common being:
1. Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of brain injuries. These incidents can happen anywhere, from a wet floor in a supermarket to an uneven sidewalk or an icy staircase. When a person falls and hits their head, the impact can result in significant brain trauma.
2. Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents are also major contributors to brain injuries. In fact, according to the International Brain Injury Association (IBIA), they account for 50% of all TBIs. The sudden stop or collision in these accidents can cause the brain to move violently within the skull, leading to serious injuries.
3. Sports & Recreation Injuries
Contact sports such as football, soccer, and ice hockey are high-risk activities for brain injuries. Even with protective gear, athletes are susceptible to concussions and other forms of brain trauma.
Some recreation activities such as skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, or horseback riding can also pose a risk of brain injury. According to the IBIA, 300,000 traumatic brain injuries per year are the result of sports-related accidents.
4. Workplace Accidents
Certain jobs, especially those involving heavy machinery, heights, or hazardous environments, pose a higher risk for brain injuries. Falls, equipment malfunctions, and other workplace incidents can result in severe head trauma.
Impact of TBIs on Victims and Their Loved Ones
The repercussions of brain injuries, whether mild or traumatic, extend far beyond the immediate physical damage.
Physical and Cognitive Effects
Victims of brain injuries often face a range of physical challenges, from impaired motor functions to chronic pain. Cognitive effects can include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment, all of which can significantly hinder daily activities and professional capabilities.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
Traumatic brain injuries can also lead to emotional and behavioral changes. Victims may experience mood swings, depression, anxiety, and even personality changes, making it difficult for them to maintain relationships and social interactions in the same way they did before their accident.
Financial Strain
The cost of treating brain injuries can be astronomical. Medical expenses, rehabilitation, and long-term care needs can quickly deplete financial resources.
According to the CDC, the annual healthcare cost of non-fatal TBIs is over $40 billion. Additionally, the inability to work can lead to lost income, further exacerbating the financial burden.
Impact on Loved Ones
Families of traumatic brain injury victims often become caregivers, which can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. The stress of managing medical appointments, providing daily care, and dealing with the emotional toll can significantly impact the well-being of loved ones.
Common Care for Traumatic Brain Injuries
As mentioned above, the cost of TBIs is quite considerable. This is because of the typical long-term care that may be needed for a full recovery.
Firstly, for a more severe brain injury surgery to remove a blood clot, stop brain bleeding, or repair a skull fracture may be needed. Afterward, various kinds of therapy may be prescribed in order to resolve symptoms and return the patient to full mental and physical health. Common therapies are:
- Occupational
- Vocational
- Speech and Language
- Recreational
- Neuropsychological
- And more.
As you can see, the right care for a traumatic brain injury is absolutely critical and can often be extensive and multi-faceted. That’s why receiving adequate and just compensation is equally important.
The Role of a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a TBI is incredibly challenging, but an experienced attorney can provide invaluable support and advocacy. The right injury lawyer will not only offer legal expertise but an arsenal of resources such as medical care providers that they know and trust to treat these types of injuries with skill.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
A brain injury lawyer will thoroughly evaluate the case, including the circumstances of the injury, witnesses and evidence, responsible parties, medical records, and the long-term impact on the victim's life. This comprehensive assessment is absolutely crucial for building a strong case.
Maximizing Compensation
Working with an experienced accident attorney significantly increases the chances of recovering full and fair compensation. Insurance companies often offer settlements that are far below what victims truly need and deserve. A brain injury lawyer will fight for compensation that covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Legal Expertise and Advocacy
Attorneys specializing in brain injury cases have extensive knowledge of the legal system and the intricacies of personal injury law. They can handle all legal aspects, from filing claims to negotiating with insurance companies to representing clients in court if necessary.
Emotional and Practical Support
Beyond legal expertise, attorneys provide essential support and guidance throughout the recovery process. They can connect clients with medical experts, rehabilitation services, and support groups, helping to alleviate some of the burden that rests on the victim and their family.
“The attorneys and staff [at Veritas Injury Lawyers] are not only very professional and experienced
but also compassionate and willing to work with you to get your life back on track after an accident.”
Will C.
Contact Veritas Injury Lawyers for Compassionate Advocacy in TBI Cases
Brain injuries have far-reaching impacts that go beyond the immediate physical damage. Understanding the common causes, recognizing the profound effects on victims and their loved ones, and seeking the support of an experienced attorney are crucial steps in navigating the complex journey of recovery.
If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, do not hesitate to contact Veritas Injury Lawyers. We will ensure you receive both the restorative care and legal advocacy you deserve.
In Western Colorado and Eastern Utah, we’re known for treating our clients like family, fighting with tenacity and integrity for their full recovery, and leveraging our insider knowledge of the insurance industry as well as our network of resources to deliver the best results possible.
There’s no reason to navigate this journey alone. Contact Veritas Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation.
“[Veritas Injury Lawyers] made sure that all avenues were explored for getting me the highest award possible,
kept me informed of the status of the claims, and expressed great empathy and kindness during my painful recovery.”
Denise M.
