A brain injury can be defined as damage to the brain caused by a blow, jolt, or penetrating object. These injuries are far more common than you might think, with millions of people suffering from them each year.
The effects of brain injuries can range from headaches and dizziness to memory loss, paralysis, and even coma. In some cases, brain injuries are caused by negligence, such as a car accident caused by a drunk driver or a slip and fall due to an unsafe premise.
When a brain injury is caused by someone else’s carelessness, victims have the option to get compensation for their brain injury. A qualified lawyer can help navigate the legal process and fight for the resources needed to heal and rebuild a life after a brain injury.
The Different Possible Causes of Brain Injury
Here are some examples of the different ways you can end up with a brain injury:
Falling
A brain injury isn’t always a dramatic event. Sometimes, it can be caused by something as simple as a fall. You might not even lose consciousness in the process. So long as the impact on your head was severe, you could be at risk of a brain injury.
Some of the telltale signs you’ll experience along the way include dizziness, headaches, and memory problems. You should see a doctor as soon as these symptoms surface, and then go to see a lawyer if the fall happened because of someone else, either directly or indirectly.
Traffic collision
Car accidents are a leading cause of brain injuries. Even a seemingly minor fender bender can cause a concussion or more serious trauma. If you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing headaches, confusion, or difficulty concentrating, don’t ignore it. These could be signs of a brain injury. See a doctor and get the medical attention you deserve.
If you develop a brain injury in a situation like this, the other driver will typically be the liable party that’ll pay you compensation.
Concussion
Concussions are a type of brain injury that can happen from a blow to the head. You might lose consciousness, but not always. If you’re lucky, a concussion will go away on its own. If things go sideways, you might end up with a brain injury.
Physical abuse
Violence is a typical cause of brain injury. If someone has been battering you and focusing the force on your head, you’re very likely to suffer brain injuries.
No one should have to endure any form of physical abuse. Take the bold step to report your abuser to the appropriate authorities so you can break free of their shackles.
Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with a brain injury due to their violence, you can hold them liable to cover all the pain and suffering that you have suffered.
Sports injuries
Sports are a great way to stay active, but they also carry a risk of brain injury. Concussions are common in contact sports like football and soccer.
If you’ve suffered a brain injury during a sporting event, especially due to inadequate safety protocols or reckless play, a lawyer can help you understand your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and lost time from missed games or practices.
Hemorrhage
A hemorrhage is serious bleeding inside the skull that puts pressure on the brain. It can be caused by a severe blow to the head or a ruptured blood vessel. Symptoms can be sudden and severe, like intense headaches, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.
You must call emergency services immediately if you suspect a hemorrhage, either in yourself or in someone close to you.
Penetrating injury
This is the most serious type of brain injury, and it is almost always fatal. It can happen when an object pierces the skull and enters the brain. Gunshot wounds, knife attacks, or high-speed accidents can cause penetrating injuries. Immediate medical attention is required in situations like this.
Conclusion
A brain injury typically has severe consequences. So long as there was another party who contributed to your condition, you can hold them liable and demand compensation. The law allows this, but you would need a lawyer who is very competent to help you make your case.