Traumatic Brain Injury: Long-Term Effects and the Role of an Attorney

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are complex medical conditions. Understanding their long-term effects and the role of an attorney is essential to pursue compensation.

Every year, around one million people in the US are treated for a traumatic brain injury. In 2021 alone, over 69,473 died because of TBIs.  

You deserve compensation when you suffer such an injury, and someone else is responsible. With the help of a traumatic brain injury attorney, you can file a case and ensure that you get the rightful amount. 

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries

Popularly called ‘TBIs’, these are medical conditions related to an affected brain. They are caused by an external force that leads to movement of the skull or lack of oxygen in the brain. 

Some of the most common symptoms of TBIs include:

• Headache
• Memory loss
• Sensitivity to light
• Sensitivity to sound
• Blurred vision
• Nausea, fatigue, and vomiting
• Change in mood
• Disrupted sleep patterns

Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries

TBIs can have serious consequences that may affect a victim’s life in different ways. 

Short-term Effects of TBIs

These mild or short-term effects may last a few hours to a few days. Some symptoms immediately appear, while others occur a few hours after the injury. They are:

• Fear
• Headache
• Unconsciousness
• Impaired motor functions
• Depression
• Temporary amnesia
• Frustration
• Mood swings

Sometimes, victims may have suicidal thoughts. This is the time when medical attention and expert help is required immediately. 

Long-term Effects of TBIs

Short-term effects remain for a few days or weeks and can be addressed immediately. 

However, some symptoms remain long and lead to severe consequences. Understanding them is essential for both victims and their loved ones to take the necessary steps before they become challenging to take care of. 

• Impaired Motor Skills

After a traumatic brain injury, motor skills can be affected, making everyday movements more difficult. This includes walking, using hands for precise actions, and maintaining balance. These challenges happen because the brain’s ability to control muscles and coordinate movements is affected. 

How to Treat:

Therapy and rehabilitation can help regain motor skills by retraining the brain and muscles.

• Cognitive Challenges

These lead to disrupted processes related to memory, attention, and problem-solving. Victims may struggle to concentrate, remember things, or process information quickly. 

How to Treat:

Cognitive rehabilitation can help cure these challenges. It improves these functions through exercises and strategies that strengthen cognitive abilities over time.

• Affected Communication

Communication difficulties are common after TBI, affecting both speaking and understanding language. This can manifest as needing help finding the right words, following conversations, or expressing thoughts clearly. 

How to Treat:

Speech therapy is essential in helping victims regain and improve their communication skills by focusing on language exercises and techniques.

• Emotional and Behavioral Changes

Sometimes, TBIs result in significant emotional and behavioral changes due to damage to the areas of the brain that regulate emotions and impulses. This may result in mood swings, irritability, impulsiveness, or difficulty controlling emotions. 

How to Treat:

Therapy and counseling can help manage these changes, teach coping strategies, and help individuals and their families adjust to the emotional challenges.

• Changed Personality 

Some victims experience personality changes after a TBI. These can include alterations in interests, preferences, or social behavior that are different from their pre-injury self. 

How to Treat:

These changes may be challenging for both the person with TBI and their loved ones to understand and adapt to, often requiring patience and support from healthcare professionals and caregivers.

• Vision-related Challenges

An injury to the brain can also affect vision, resulting in problems like blurred vision, sensitivity to light, double vision, or difficulty with eye movements. These visual impairments can impact daily activities such as reading, driving, or navigating spaces.

How to Treat:

Vision therapy and specialized treatments from an eye care professional can help manage and improve visual disturbances caused by TBI.

Importance of a Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney 

After a TBI, seeking the assistance of a specialized attorney can be crucial for several reasons:

Understanding Legal Rights and Options

A traumatic brain injury attorney knows the legal complexities related to TBI cases. They can help you understand your rights and legal options, ensuring you know the rightful compensation you may be entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the injury.

Navigating Insurance and Legal Processes

Dealing with insurance companies and navigating the legal system takes work, especially when recovering from a serious injury. An experienced attorney can handle communications with insurance companies and legal paperwork on your behalf. They ensure deadlines are met, and your rights are protected throughout the process.

Building a Strong Case

Proving liability in TBI cases requires thorough investigation and solid evidence. A skilled lawyer can gather medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonies to build a strong case demonstrating how the injury occurred and who should be held responsible.

Negotiating Fair Settlements

Insurance companies may offer settlements quickly but often try to minimize payouts. A TBI attorney understands the true value of your case, factoring in long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and other ongoing needs. They negotiate with insurers to help you get fair compensation.

Advocating for Your Best Interests

When recovering from an injury, having an attorney who advocates for your best interests can alleviate stress and ensure your focus remains on healing. They provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, advocating for fair treatment and compensation on your behalf.

In the End

If you or your loved one has suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence and you require legal assistance, Swartz and Swartz. We are a traumatic brain injury attorney with decades of experience achieving justice for victims & families. Call us at (617) 742-1900 for a free consultation.