If you are involved in a car accident, motorcycle accident, slip, and fall accident, or something else, you may strike your head and experience a TBI (traumatic brain injury). Unfortunately, even minor TBIs can cause serious pain and discomfort, while more serious ones can have life-long consequences.
Not only do you have to deal with the physical impact of a TBI, but there is also an emotional toll to consider. Because of how serious the impact of a TBI can be, knowing more about these injuries can be helpful.
If you were involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, it is smart to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you file a claim and recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
Learn more about TBIs and their impact on you and your life here.
Types of TBIs
There are two types of TBIs – open and closed.
An open TBI occurs if something penetrates your skull and enters your brain. On the other hand, a closed TBI occurs when your head experiences blunt force trauma, but your skull remains intact.
Both injuries can be serious and cause long-term effects.
If you experience any head injury, seek medical attention immediately. Your health should be a priority.
Traumatic Brain Injury Defined
TBIs occur when an external force causes damage to the brain. A TBI can range in severity and be mild, moderate, or severe. It all depends on the extent of the damage.
When a TBI occurs, it disrupts the normal functioning of the brain. This is true whether you experience a jolt, blow to the head, or penetrating injury.
On the mild end of the spectrum, you can experience a concussion. More severe TBIs include extended periods of unconsciousness or even a coma. These injuries can result in cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physical changes that may be permanent or temporary.
Understanding the Different Types of TBIs
The three types of TBIs that you may experience include the following:
Concussion or Mild TBI
This is a common type of TBI that occurs in car accidents, slips and falls, and more. It is possible to recover from a concussion after just a few days or weeks. However, some people may experience lingering issues like fatigue, dizziness, or headaches.
Moderate TBI
This usually occurs after a more severe head injury. If this injury occurs, you will likely lose consciousness for a few hours or days. Many people who experience a moderate TBI experiences cognitive issues, like problems concentrating or thinking. They may also have problems with their memory and information processing. Physical issues may also occur, such as a loss of coordination, weakness, and paralysis.
Severe TBI
As mentioned above, this is the most serious type of brain injury. It is seen in high-speed car accidents, truck accidents, and similar situations. This type of injury will likely cause long-term issues, including problems with mental health and physical function.
Hire an Attorney to Help with Your TBI
If you experience a TBI after an accident caused by another person, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover compensation. You should hire a TBI injury attorney to help with this process.
Recovering compensation through a personal injury claim can be challenging. With the help of an attorney, you have someone who will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure the settlement offer is fair and fully values your claim.
A TBI can impact your life for just a few weeks or the rest of your life. Regardless of how severe it is, if it was caused by someone else, you should not have to deal with the financial burden alone.