Brain Injury
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, approximately 5.3 million Americans live with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Of those, it is estimated that 50-70 percent of the cases were caused by a motor vehicle crash. Other causes include sporting injuries, falls, and violence. If another person’s actions caused the victim’s TBI, they need to be held liable for the injuries through a personal injury claim. Our lawyers at the office of Mark H. Wright, PLLC can help.
Types of Brain Injuries
There are four common types of brain injuries that personal injury victims most often suffer, outlined below:
- Brain contusions and hematomas – Contusions are bruising and a brain contusion is when the brain tissue is bruised, which can lead to swelling of the affected area. A hematoma is an area of blood that has pooled outside of the blood vessel and clotted. Subdural hematomas are between the brain tissue and the lining of the brain. Intracranial epidural hematomas are found between the skull and outside lining of the brain.
- Skull fracture – Happens when there is a break in the skull bone. When the bone is pushed inwards it is considered a depressed skull fracture. Linear skull fractures are when the bone has not moved or shifted. Basilar skull fractures occur at the base of the skull and are severe. Lastly, diastatic skull fractures are found at the sutures of the skull and are often found in young children.
- Diffuse axonal injury – Occurs when the brain moves suddenly inside the skull and the acceleration and deceleration against the skull causes tearing of the long connecting nerve fibers of the brain.
- Concussion – Occurs when a person experiences a disruption in their neurological function from a violent blow or shaking to the head
Symptoms of a TBI
Traumatic brain injuries can affect many aspects of a person’s life. The impacts may be short term, long term, or even permanent. Cognitively, a person may struggle with short-term memory, long-term memory, or staying attentive. Emotionally, a TBI victim will likely experience mood swings. They may come across as depressed, aggressive, or anxious to others. Depending on what part of the brain was injured, patients will suffer with their motor skills and one or multiple senses, such as impaired vision or hearing.
The Costs of a TBI
According to AboutBrainInjury.org, the initial treatment for a severe TBI averages $1,000 per day. However, many costs continue for months or even years after the injury date. Some expenses associated with a TBI include:
- Medical bills;
- Lost wages and future earning capacity;
- Occupation therapy;
- Rehabilitation;
- Caretakers; and
- More.
Contact Mark H. Wright, PLLC If You or a Loved One Has Suffered a TBI
Brain injuries can be lifelong and the expenses required to make a recovery are astronomical. This is why it is critical to seek compensation from the liable party’s insurance company. While you focus on what is required to recover, the office of Mark H. Wright, PLLC can help look out for your financial future by handling the legal case. Contact our offices at 813-425-2020 for a free case evaluation.
