Head injuries are common in personal injury cases. If you get hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to file a compensation claim to cover legal damages. Serious head injuries often require medical treatment and a long recovery process. In some cases, a head injury could affect your physical and mental capabilities as well.
If you have suffered a concussion or traumatic brain injury, this could play a role in your injury claim. First, we must define the differences between traumatic brain injuries and concussions.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
A traumatic brain injury is a broad category that describes any injury affecting normal brain function. The severity of this type of injury varies widely. Many TBIs have a mild effect on brain cells, while others can cause permanent brain damage that alters the victim’s lifestyle.
A traumatic brain injury, typically caused by external forces damaging brain tissue, can affect your cognitive function, emotions, behavior, and physical movement.
The Spectrum of TBI Severity
Traumatic brain injuries can have varying effects on the individual. A mild TBI may not exhibit many symptoms, and the individual may simply have a mild headache. On the other end of the spectrum, a severe injury to the brain could cause lifelong disabilities or permanent damage.
You could lose your ability to remember things or move around without limitations. The more severe your brain injury is, the longer the road to recovery, if there is one.
Concussions: A Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury, so it is more specific. Let’s define what a concussion is and how it may affect your life.
Definition of a Concussion
Concussions are considered mild brain injuries. A bump, blow, or jolt to the head typically makes the brain move rapidly inside the skull, causing the victim to be concussed. This movement can cause damage that affects normal brain function for a short period.
A person who suffers a severe concussion or multiple concussions is in danger of a more serious TBI.
Common Causes of Concussions
Since concussions can occur from a bump to the head, there are many causes. Falls, car accidents, contact sports injuries, falling objects, adventure activities, and sudden jolts could all throw the brain violently against the inside of the skull and cause a concussion.
Typical Symptoms of a Concussion
If you suffer a head injury that leads to a concussion, you may experience non-life-threatening symptoms. Headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and vision issues are all common symptoms of concussions. If you notice these symptoms after an accident, you should schedule an appointment with a medical professional immediately.
Distinguishing Concussions from More Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries
Knowing the difference between a concussion and a severe TBI is essential for your recovery and legal considerations. Here are a few strategies to differentiate between the two conditions.
Severity and Duration of Symptoms
Physical trauma to the head after a car accident or other scenario can lead to permanent brain damage. The severity and duration of the symptoms will tell you how severe the injury is.
If your symptoms only last a week and there are no further complications, it was likely a mild concussion. However, if the effects last for weeks or months, you may have suffered a more traumatic event.
Loss of Consciousness
Losing consciousness is common if you get struck in the head. However, the longer it takes to come out of this state, the more severe your TBI may be. A brief loss of consciousness could be a concussion or minor TBI. However, if you are out for a more extended period, seek medical attention immediately.
Imaging and Diagnostic Tests
Most concussions are mild enough that they won’t show up on imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs. However, a significant TBI could reveal structural damage to the brain during these tests. If there is no visible damage, then chances are you only suffered a concussion.
Long-Term Effects and Complications
Even if your brain injury is minor, it could lead to complications, especially if you do not rest or follow a recovery plan. Here are a few long-term consequences associated with concussions and TBIs.
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Post-concussion syndrome occurs when the effects of a brain injury continue for weeks or months after the incident. While a typical concussion would have healed in this time, the persistence of symptoms is cause for concern.
Risks of Repeated Concussions
If you have suffered concussions in the past, you are at a greater risk of repeated concussions that are more severe. This damage could cause long-term cognitive issues affecting memory, muscle control, and other bodily functions.
Severe TBI Complications
If your TBI is severe enough, it could result in devastating complications. You may acquire a permanent disability after the accident. Cognitive impairments and personality changes are also possible if you suffer significant damage to the brain.
Legal Implications of Concussions and TBIs
If the initial event that caused your injury was due to someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue compensation for legal damages.
Personal Injury Claims
In a personal injury claim, the plaintiff attempts to sue the at-fault party for their negligence. Concussions and TBIs are often cited as damages in personal injury lawsuits. You can claim compensation if you prove that the at-fault party caused your injury and ensuing losses.
Proving Damages
You must provide evidence of the damages suffered to earn a settlement for a concussion or TBI. This damage could include medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
You will need evidence of these damages, so be prepared to provide pay stubs, bank statements, medical bills, medical records, and other data during your claim. Because TBIs and concussions often have subtle or delayed symptoms, proving the full extent of your damages requires detailed medical evidence and expert testimony.
Secure Expert Legal Representation!
Suffering a significant head injury could turn your life upside down and affect your financial future. The team at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help you hold the at-fault party accountable, prove damages, and recover compensation for your losses. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation so you can ask questions about your legal options.
Call our office today at 888-424-5757 or complete the contact form to request a free case evaluation with a head injury attorney.