A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a sudden injury that causes damage to the brain. As the name suggests, TBIs frequently occur in traumatic situations, such as motor vehicle accidents. TBIs can range from mild to severe and can result in permanent disabilities, comas, and vegetative states.
Not every TBI justifies a lawsuit, but when your accident or injury is the result of someone else’s negligence, you should speak to a lawyer about your legal options.
Attorney Brett H. Oppenheimer has been fighting for the injured since 1991, and he is ready to help you at (502) 242-8877.
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries
TBIs occur when the head suddenly and violently hits an object (this is called a closed TBI) or an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue (a penetrating TBI). Depending on the extent of brain damage, the symptoms of TBIs can be mild, moderate, or severe.
People with mild TBIs may experience:
- A brief loss of consciousness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Fatigue or lethargy
- A change in sleep patterns
- Behavioral or mood changes
- Trouble thinking, concentrating or remembering things
Moderate to severe TBIs include the symptoms above, as well as:
- Extended unconsciousness
- A headache that gets worse or does not go away
- Repeated nausea and vomiting
- Convulsions or seizures
- Inability to wake from sleep
- Dilation of the pupil
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness in the arms and legs
- Loss of coordination
- Confusion, restlessness, or agitation
If you experience a head injury or any kind of trauma, seek medical attention immediately. While doctors cannot reverse the initial brain damage, medical personnel can stabilize your TBI and prevent further injury.
Coping With Long-Term Effects
The long-term effects of a TBI can be quite serious. Approximately half of severely head-injured patients need surgery, and many suffer from disabilities. People who survive TBIs often have problems with cognition, sensory processing, communication, and behavioral and mental health.
To live a full and complete life after a head injury, many people need extensive medical treatment and years of rehabilitation and therapy. Some people need assistive care for the rest of their lives.
If your injury is the result of someone else’s carelessness, filing a catastrophic injury lawsuit is crucial to securing your future. If the lawsuit is successful, the damages compensation you receive can help you account for medical bills, time away from work, pain, and suffering, and more.
Contact our firm today to learn how Brett H. Oppenheimer, PLLC can help you – your initial consultation is free.