Brain injuries wreak havoc with the lives of those who suffer from them. Brain injuries affect their victims physically, emotionally, and financially.
Brain injuries are more typically referred to today as Traumatic Brain Injuries or TBIs. TBIs are generally deemed mild, like a mild concussion, or severe, such as an injury in which there was a significant loss of consciousness. Any brain injury, no matter how seemingly mild it seems, can have long-term devastating effects.
The most common cause of TBIs in Texas is motor vehicle accidents, which account for almost half of the TBIs that require hospitalization. Sports or recreational activities are the second most common cause, and physical assault is the third. Among those over the age of 65, the most common cause is falls. A very small but rising cause of TBI is gunshot wounds, of which well more than half are classified as suicide attempts.
Firearm-related suicide is the most common cause of TBI-related death is the United States. Falls among the elderly are the other leading cause of TBI-related death.
Falls are an important cause of TBI because they occur so frequently among very young children and very old adults. Falls result in the largest number of TBI emergency room visits and hospitalizations.
The prevalence of sports-related TBIs had led to many changes in school and university athletic programs. Far more protective gear is mandated, and injured parties are usually immediately benched for a specified period. This latter reaction reflects the knowledge that repeated TBIs are highly dangerous and a recognition of the need to protect youngsters from them. .
Although doctors no longer treat any TBI lightly, TBIs are still classified as mild or severe. The symptoms vary between the two.
The signs and symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury may include:
Cognitive, behavioral, or mental symptoms
Moderate to severe TBIs can exhibit all of the symptoms of a mild TBI, but the symptoms do not improve. There are additional symptoms as well.
Physical symptoms
Cognitive, behavioral, or mental symptoms
TBIs, even so-called mild TBIs can have long-lasting and life-altering consequences. The likelihood of a TBI, for example, increases exponentially upon experiencing the first TBI. Repeat TBIs cause significant brain damage and special forms of dementia only now being recognized among athletes.
A traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you or your injured loved one to begin the fight back to a normal life. The treatments and effects of TBI can be lifelong and very expensive. Counseling or surgery may be required, and rehabilitation to regain lost skills may also be necessary.
An experienced traumatic brain injury attorney will understand the injuries you or your loved one may have suffered and the potential for compensation for those injuries. Contact a knowledgeable TBI lawyer near you in Texas for an initial evaluation and consultation on your case.
