After a TBI, a brain injury lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve.
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, providing an important opportunity to raise awareness about the serious effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI can have long-term consequences for both individuals and their families. In addition to the physical and emotional challenges of coping with TBI, legal issues can arise that make the situation even more complex.
Navigating these legal challenges can be difficult and often require the expertise of an attorney who knows how to handle brain injury cases. Understanding the various aspects of TBI, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and legal implications, can help those impacted by traumatic brain injuries find the support and resources they need to move forward.
What is a traumatic brain injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of head injury that occurs when an external force causes damage to the brain. This can happen as a result of a blow or penetrating injury to the head. Even a jolt or bump to the body can cause a TBI.
TBIs are classified into three different severities: mild, moderate, and severe.
- Mild TBI: Someone with a mild TBI may lose brief consciousness for no more than 30 minutes. With rest and over-the-counter pain relievers, the symptoms of a mild TBI can resolve within weeks. Concussions are a common type of mild TBI. Although mild, if left untreated concussions can become much more serious.
- Moderate TBI: Moderate TBIs are characterized by a loss of consciousness lasting between 30 minutes to 24 hours. Symptoms are more pronounced, and victims have a higher risk of complications. Recovery can range from weeks to months.
- Severe TBI: Severe TBIs are the most serious and often considered life-threatening. Someone with a severe TBI can lose consciousness for more than 24 hours and is at high risk for infection and brain swelling. Recovery time can be prolonged, and there may be long-term cognitive and physical disabilities.
Signs of a TBI
The signs and symptoms of a TBI can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the head injury. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Trouble with balance and coordination
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Problems with concentration
- Memory loss
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Changes in mood and personality
It's important to know that symptoms may not be immediately apparent after the injury. Delayed symptoms can develop hours, days, and weeks after the initial head injury. That is why seeking medical treatment following any blow to the head is important.
How are TBIs treated?
Mild and moderate TBIs are typically treated with rest, symptom management, and rehabilitation. Avoiding physical activity is recommended. Your doctor may also recommend medications to control pain, reduce inflammation and prevent seizures.
A severe TBI requires immediate and more extensive treatment. Surgery may be needed in some cases to remove blood clots, repair skull fractures, relieve pressure on the brain or remove any objects that have penetrated the brain. After surgery, some people may require ongoing care and support.
Talk to a Millburn, NJ brain injury attorney today.
While you may not initially consider legal action after experiencing a TBI in an accident, the insurance company may try to downplay the severity of your TBI and offer inadequate compensation that doesn't cover the full extent of your damages.
With an experienced brain injury lawyer on your side, you can rest assured that we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of success in representing clients with TBI, and we will work closely with you every step of the way to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI in New Jersey, The Leigh Law Firm, P.C. is here to help. To learn more about how a brain injury attorney can help with your potential legal case, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.