A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a devastating injury that can lead to lifelong disability and even death. It can happen to anyone in a wide variety of circumstances. The impact of a brain injury can last a lifetime, often limiting the injured victim’s ability to do the things they once enjoyed.
To begin the path to recovery, we highly recommend speaking to an Akron brain injury lawyer – one who is familiar with such a severe injury, how it is best treated, and what legal avenues to pursue to get you the compensation you need.
Brain injury cases tend to involve considerable losses, so insurance companies often invest substantial resources to dispute them. Our skilled Akron traumatic brain injury lawyers know precisely which strategies to implement to maximize your recovery. We work closely with a qualified team of experts to correctly assess the nature and severity of your brain injury and how it will impact you personally and financially.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
According to the CDC, an estimated 1.5 million Americans suffer a traumatic brain injury each year. A traumatic brain injury is defined as a disruption in normal brain function resulting from a bump, blow, jolt or wound to the head. There are several types of TBIs, ranging from mild to severe. Traumatic brain injuries are generally classified into two categories – penetrating and closed. Understanding the various types of head injuries is crucial in traumatic brain injury cases, as each type requires a different approach to both medical care and legal strategy.
Penetrating head injuries
A penetrating brain injury is one in which the dura, the outer layer of the brain, is compromised. These injuries are commonly caused by gunshots, knives, and bone fragments driven into the brain from a skull fracture.
Closed Head Injuries
A closed brain injury is any brain injury that does not go through the skull. Common closed brain injuries include concussions, intracranial hematomas, cerebral contusions, and diffuse axonal injuries.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are typically caused by a blunt force to the head or body. The extent of damage depends on several factors, such as the nature of the injury and the force of impact. Common causes of traumatic brain injuries include:
- Falls
- Car accidents
- Physical violence
- Sports injuries
- Explosive blasts
The Effects of a Traumatic Brain Injury
Depending on the nature of your brain injury, you may experience a wide range of physical and mental effects. Many effects will likely improve over time, some may be long-term, and others may even be permanent.
Physical Effects
- Headaches
- Lack of energy (lethargy)
- Speech problems
- Difficulty sleeping
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Loss of hearing
- Trouble chewing and swallowing
- Balance problems (vertigo)
- Inability to taste or smell
Mental Effects
- Impaired decision making
- Difficulty concentrating
- Depression
- Lack of focus
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- PTSD
In addition to the physical and mental effects, victims often endure significant pain and suffering, which should be acknowledged in your compensation claim.
Treatment for a Traumatic Brain Injury
Getting immediate treatment for a traumatic brain injury gives a patient the best chance of a full recovery. Treatment options depend on the nature and extent of the injury. Mild traumatic brain injuries can be treated with rest and over-the-counter medication. Though it is always important to notify your doctor of any new symptoms or changes in your existing symptoms, especially if they seem to be worsening. Severe brain injuries can be treated using several different methods, including:
Immediate emergency care – For more severe cases, the injured patient will need to be monitored to ensure they have enough oxygen, an adequate blood supply, and normal blood pressure. Emergency medical professionals will also stabilize the head and neck to prevent any further damage.
Medication – Administering certain medications can prevent or limit further damage to the brain.
- Anti-seizure drugs are often used to prevent the injured person from having a seizure. Seizures are common during the first week following their injury. Doctors typically discontinue the use of these drugs after the first week. If the individual has a seizure, the doctor will likely continue the use of anti-seizure medication.
- Coma-inducing drugs are used to lower the amount of oxygen needed for the brain to function. Putting the patient in a medically-induced coma is helpful when the pressure in the brain causes a decreased blood supply to the brain cells.
Rehabilitation is generally necessary for those who have suffered a severe brain injury. Brain-damaged individuals often need to relearn basic skills, such as walking and talking.
Surgery may be needed to prevent or limit further damage to the brain. Surgery can address serious problems, such as skull fractures, bleeding in the brain, blood clots, and excessive pressure in the brain.
The right medical care is essential for recovery from a traumatic brain injury, and our legal team can help ensure that the cost of such care is covered in your compensation.
Securing Compensation for Your Traumatic Brain Injury
After experiencing a traumatic brain injury, one of the most pressing concerns for many victims and their families is the financial impact, particularly the accumulation of medical bills. Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and seeking fair compensation can be overwhelming, especially during recovery. Our Akron traumatic brain injury attorneys are highly experienced in helping you secure the compensation you deserve to cover all costs associated with your injury, including extensive medical bills, ongoing treatment expenses, and lost wages. We understand the intricacies of these cases and are committed to fighting for your financial security and peace of mind.
Speak with a Qualified Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer in Akron
A traumatic brain injury can have an immense physical, psychological, and financial toll on the victim and their loved ones. If you or someone you love suffered a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, you will need help getting the compensation you are entitled to. As your Akron traumatic brain injury attorney, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your legal journey, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
Slater & Zurz has helped injured victims for over 32 years. We have represented clients throughout Ohio and have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. We have the resources, medical knowledge, experience, and track record to obtain full and fair compensation for your or your loved one’s brain injury. Our Akron personal injury lawyers will fight diligently on your behalf and not hesitate to take the case to trial if necessary.
To arrange a free consultation to discuss your case, call our office today at (330)762-0700. If you or your loved one are unable to come into our office, we can arrange to meet you at your home or hospital room. For dedicated support and expert guidance on your case, contact us today and let us help you navigate these challenging times.