Senior Partner
Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, are serious. And while efforts have been made over the last few years to educate the public about them, not everyone (victims included) appreciates how significant these injuries are. A TBI could have physical consequences that last for years after an accident, perhaps even for the rest of the victim’s life. This, in turn, could mean steep medical bills, diminished career prospects, and a reduced quality of life. If you or a loved one has been in an accident, it is imperative that you know about the signs of TBIs. The personal injury attorneys of Miller, Montiel, & Strano, P.C. take a closer look.
More than just a head injury
A TBI is not merely a head injury, and it’s not even “just” a brain injury, either. It is a significant disruption in the normal functioning and activity of the brain following major physical trauma. The potential causes of TBIs are numerous, and include car accidents and slips and falls.
It may be days, weeks, or even months before the signs of a TBI become evident to family and friends of the accident victim. Or there could be relatively minor symptoms at first that worsen with time. These are a few of the most common signs of TBIs to look for:
- Severe or recurring headaches
- Loss of memory
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Difficulty focusing, concentrating, or comprehending
- Speech difficulty or slurred speech
- Chronic pain
- Emotional outbursts
- Personality or behavior changes
- Anxiety
- Depression
To make sure a TBI is properly diagnosed and treated, the accident victim and his or her family should immediately see the doctor. Notify your physician of all signs and symptoms you are experiencing, including those above. While no two brain injuries are alike and it’s not possible to list all signs of a TBI, an experienced doctor should be able to identify whether the victim has one. Also, be sure to inform your physician of any changes in your condition.
What you should expect with a TBI
The accident victim’s symptoms may be physical, mental, and emotional. The emotional consequences – such as changes in mood, behavior, and personality – can be particularly difficult for friends and relatives to handle. Because of the TBI, the victim may end up becoming a completely different person than who he or she was before the accident.
Depression, irritability, and a negative outlook on life are common among survivors. Aggression and outbursts may become frequent, and the victim could evidence a decreased quality of life. Relationships with spouses, family members, and friends could be irreversibly changed.
In some of the worst cases, TBI victims are unable to perform basic daily tasks like they could before the accident. Focusing, concentrating, and learning new information could be difficult. It may not even be possible for the victim to handle his or her previous job duties. This could financially jeopardize the survivor and his or her family.
Hiring An Attorney Is Critical
If your TBI was caused by another party’s negligent actions, you and your family could be eligible to seek monetary compensation for your losses. These damages could include coverage of medical bills, payment of lost wages, and more. But you will have to contend with the at-fault party’s insurance company and lawyers, which is why you need to retain skilled legal counsel. Miller, Montiel, & Strano, P.C. is ready to go to work for you and your family today. Reach out to us today!
