Traumatic Brain Injuries Are Often the Result of Negligence
During Brain Injury Awareness Month, it's important to understand how accidents cause traumatic brain injuries
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the serious nature of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and the long-lasting consequences they can have. TBIs can occur in a variety of accidents, including motor vehicle crashes, slip and falls, sports, and work accidents.
Given the complexity of the brain and its crucial role in the human body's functioning, the severity of each brain injury can differ from person to person. Although some TBI victims fully recover, many experience significant life-altering changes.
If you or someone you love has suffered a TBI in an accident involving negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Contact Pajcic & Pajcic today to see how an experienced brain injury attorney can help you. Our office is in Jacksonville, FL, and we would be honored to talk to you about your potential legal case.
Understanding traumatic brain injuries
A brain injury can have a range of effects on the victim, including physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that can last for weeks, months, or even years. At its core, a TBI is any injury that causes damage to the brain. There are several types of TBI, including concussions, contusions, and penetrating injuries:
- Concussions are the most common type of TBI, occurring when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull.
- Contusions are bruises on the brain that can occur due to a direct impact to the head.
- Penetrating injuries occur when an object pierces the skull and damages the brain tissue.
There are many causes of TBI, ranging from sports injuries to auto accidents to falls. In fact, falls are the leading cause of TBI among older adults, while motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of TBI among younger adults.
The symptoms and long-term effects of a brain injury can vary depending on the severity and type. For example, symptoms of a mild TBI may include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, while more severe brain injuries can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, and even lead to comas. Long-term effects can include changes in mood and behavior, memory loss, and difficulty with concentration and attention.
Recognizing the symptoms of a TBI and seeking medical attention as soon as possible after an accident can help ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and documentation of the injury.
How do doctors diagnose a TBI?
Diagnosing a TBI typically involves a combination of medical evaluation, neurological exams, and imaging tests.
The first step in diagnosing a TBI is usually a physical exam conducted by a medical professional, who will look for signs of injury such as bruises or lacerations on the head, neck, and face. They will also check the patient's vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate, to assess the severity of the injury.
A neurological exam is also typically performed to assess brain function. This exam may include tests to evaluate memory, coordination, reflexes, and other functions that may be affected by a TBI. The healthcare provider may also ask questions to assess the patient's cognitive function, such as their ability to concentrate, follow instructions, and recall information.
Imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, may also be used to diagnose a TBI. These tests can provide detailed images of the brain, allowing healthcare providers to look for signs of swelling, bleeding, or other damage that may be present.
The severity of a TBI is typically classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on several factors, including the length of time the patient was unconscious, the presence of memory loss or confusion, and the severity of symptoms. The Glasgow Coma Scale is often used to assess the severity of a TBI based on the patient's response to certain stimuli.
In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to diagnose a TBI, such as a neuropsychological evaluation to assess cognitive function or electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity.
It is important to seek medical attention promptly if a TBI is suspected. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve the chances of a full recovery.
Brain injuries caused by negligence
Negligence is the failure to take reasonable care to prevent harm to others. Whether it's a high-speed car accident on I-95 or a slip and fall in a grocery store caused by a wet floor that was not marked as hazardous, negligence is a contributing factor to many traumatic brain injuries.
If a victim believes that negligence played a role in their brain injury, they may have legal recourse through the civil justice system. By filing a personal injury lawsuit, victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount of compensation awarded will depend on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the impact on the victim's life, and the financial losses suffered as a result.
A brain injury attorney can be your voice for justice
Suffering a traumatic brain injury in an accident can be a life-changing event, leaving victims and their families to navigate a complex and often overwhelming recovery process. In these difficult situations, a brain injury lawyer can be a crucial resource.
An experienced brain injury attorney can serve as an advocate for victims, helping them navigate the legal system and ensuring that their voices are heard. They can also help victims secure the financial resources needed for medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support.
At Pajcic & Pajcic, we have a proven record of getting significant results for brain injury victims. For example, we secured a $13 million verdict for a young woman who sustained a TBI in a log truck accident, as well as $7 million for a woman who suffered a TBI in a broadside accident with a tractor-trailer. Additionally, we obtained a $1.9 million verdict for a woman who sustained a TBI after being hit by a dump truck and $1 million for a teenager who suffered a brain injury in an ATV accident.
To learn more about how we can help you, schedule a free case evaluation to review your legal rights and options.