What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

By Eugene Bruno on October 1, 2024

Traumatic brain injuries are a leading cause of death and disabilities, and they can have a devastating impact on your life. These injuries often result from events like motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall incidents, sports injuries, and acts of violence.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury to the brain caused by an external force, often resulting in temporary or permanent impairment of cognitive, physical, and psychosocial functions. TBI symptoms might not appear immediately and can worsen over time. That’s why it’s essential to always see a doctor as soon as possible after suffering any type of head injury.

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries can result from various incidents, with motor vehicle accidents being a leading cause for adults. These accidents often involve significant force or impact, which can lead to severe brain damage. These collisions may occur in various forms, including car accidents, motorcycle crashes, and pedestrian accidents involving vehicles. The sudden and forceful impact can cause the brain to collide with the skull, leading to different types of brain injuries.

Slip and fall accidents are a significant cause of traumatic brain injuries, particularly among the elderly and young children. The impact from a fall may cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, resulting in concussions or more severe brain injuries. These events often occur in environments that have wet, uneven, or cluttered surfaces, leading to a loss of balance and subsequent falls. Landlords, businesses, and property owners are required to create a safe atmosphere for visitors and guests and provide warning signs about slippery surfaces after a floor has been mopped.

For older adults, reduced vision, weakened muscles, and poor coordination increase the risk of falling and sustaining a TBI. Young children’s natural curiosity and lack of awareness about potential hazards make them more susceptible to such injuries.

Sports injuries are a prevalent cause of traumatic brain injuries, particularly in high-contact sports like football, boxing, and soccer. Athletes in these sports frequently experience impacts that can lead to concussions or more severe brain injuries. Even non-contact sports like skateboarding can result in TBIs due to falls or collisions.

Proper protective equipment, like helmets and mouth guards, is essential in reducing the risk of head injuries. For athletes who suffer such injuries, legal support can be pivotal in managing medical costs and exploring compensation avenues.

Acts of violence such as assaults and domestic violence can result in severe and life-threatening brain injuries. Physical altercations and gunshot wounds can lead to TBIs through direct blows to the head or penetrating injuries.

It’s crucial for victims to seek immediate medical care and also consider legal action to hold perpetrators accountable. Legal representation can assist in navigating the complexities of civil proceedings so victims can seek the necessary support and compensation to aid their recovery and rebuild their lives after a traumatic event occurs.

Symptoms and Long-Term Effects of TBI

Mild TBIs, commonly referred to as concussions, often present with a range of subtle yet significant symptoms. Victims may experience headaches, confusion, dizziness, and nausea shortly after the injury. Cognitive issues, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and feeling mentally foggy are also prevalent. Physical symptoms can include sensitivity to light and noise, fatigue, and balance problems. Emotional changes like irritability, anxiety, and mood swings are not uncommon. Early diagnosis and appropriate management, including rest and gradual return to normal activities, are essential to prevent further complications.

Moderate to severe TBIs present with more pronounced symptoms. Victims may experience prolonged unconsciousness lasting minutes to hours, along with significant confusion or disorientation upon regaining consciousness. Neurological deficits such as slurred speech, weakness or numbness in extremities, and loss of coordination are common. TBI victims may also experience long-term disabilities that include cognitive impairments, profound memory loss, difficulty with attention and problem-solving, and challenges in processing information.

Long-term effects of TBIs may include persistent headaches, repeated vomiting, or seizures. Behavioral changes, aggression, depression, impulsivity, and other emotional consequences can further complicate recovery. These symptoms require immediate medical attention, and they often necessitate hospitalization and long-term remedies such as assisted living care.

How a TBI Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Securing legal representation is crucial for traumatic brain injury victims. Experienced San Diego personal injury attorneys play a vital role in advocating for the victim’s rights, ensuring they receive the compensation necessary to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and loss of income. Your TBI accident attorney will assess the circumstances surrounding the injury, determine liability, and gather the necessary evidence to support your injury claim.

Case Evaluation and Investigation

An experienced attorney begins by thoroughly assessing the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident that led to the injury. This includes reviewing medical records, accident reports, and eyewitness accounts to establish liability and determine potential sources of compensation. This investigation may involve collaborating with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to build a robust case.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

During the TBI settlement process, insurance companies will often attempt to minimize settlement offers, but that’s what your lawyers are here for. We will negotiate on your behalf to help ensure that your settlement reflects the true extent of your injuries and future needs. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are always ready to take the case to court.

Speak With Our Experienced San Diego TBI Attorneys Today

With a 99.7 percent success rate, the trial attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates provide legal help for brain injury victims. Our talented litigators will file a claim or lawsuit against anyone whose negligent actions contributed to your injuries.

Call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to schedule a free consultation with our TBI lawyers in San Diego today. You won’t owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.