Brain injuries are some of the most devastating a person can suffer. They can result from a variety of circumstances, such as motor vehicle accidents, sports-related incidents, or even workplace accidents.
This article discusses the long-term implications of this injury, how it affects life after the accident, and warning signs to look for.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Contusion: A contusion is a bruise on the brain caused by a direct impact to the head. It can lead to bleeding and swelling in the affected area.
- Concussion: This is a mild traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain shakes inside the skull. It can result from a blow or jolt to the head.
- Brain hemorrhage: This refers to bleeding that occurs within the brain tissue. A severe blow to the head or a ruptured blood vessel can cause this injury.
- Diffuse axonal injury: This is a severe form of brain injury that occurs when the brain rapidly shifts inside the skull. This sudden movement causes tearing and shearing of nerve fibers throughout the brain.
- Intracranial hematoma: In this injury, blood collects outside of the brain. This buildup puts pressure on the brain and causes serious complications.
- Penetrating brain injury: An object can penetrate the skull, entering the brain tissue and causing localized damage. Sometimes, the skull fractures during an injury and pieces drift off, puncturing the brain.
- Coup-contrecoup brain injury: A forceful impact to the head can cause the brain to move back and forth within the skull. This force creates injuries at both the site of impact and the opposite side of the brain.
Physical Impacts
Traumatic brain injuries can cause paralysis of certain body parts, difficulty walking, and impaired speech. Physical therapy and other forms of rehabilitation can be helpful, but sometimes, these treatments are not enough to regain full physical functionality.
Cognitive Impacts
Traumatic brain injuries can significantly affect cognitive functions, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and impaired executive functions. These impairments significantly affect job performance and the ability to socialize with friends and family.
Psychological Impacts
Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are common. This is one of the most challenging aspects of recovery. Psychological counseling from a trained professional can help to some degree, but when brain damage is permanent, the victim can suffer emotional problems throughout their lives.
Financial Impacts
Often, the victim cannot return to their job, or they cannot function at the same capacity as before. Such a disability creates a financial burden for them and their families. Additionally, medical bills, rehabilitation, and psychological treatment can be enormous expenses.
Recovering Damages for a Traumatic Brain Injury
A traumatic brain injury can be a life-altering event. It impacts not only the victim but also their families and loved ones. The road to recovery is a long and challenging one, with many obstacles to overcome.
Often, individuals who suffer from a traumatic brain injury require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and even long-term care.
Recovering damages for a traumatic brain injury is not simply about receiving compensation. Doing so also holds those responsible accountable for their actions.
Having an experienced attorney by your side is essential in this situation. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. With the right representation, you can focus on your recovery while your attorney deals with the legal side of things. They can work to secure the funds you need to cover your medical expenses and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic head injury, The McClellan Law Firm is here to help. You can contact our team online or call our office at (619) 215-1488.