What You Should Know About Traumatic Brain Injuries in Texas
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when a blow, bump, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head impairs the normal operating functions of the brain. Below are eight facts about traumatic brain injury.
1. TBI is a leading cause of death and disability. According to the CDC, there were over 64,000 TBI-related deaths in the United States. There were approximately 223,135 TBI-related hospitalizations. From 2006 to 2014, the number of TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths increased by 53%. These numbers do not reflect all the injuries that went untreated. Because TBI injuries are so common, they are sometimes referred to as a “silent epidemic.”
2. Falls is the most cause of TBI hospitalizations. Approximately 50% of TBI hospitalizations are caused by falls. Falls disproportionately affect the oldest and the youngest age groups. Other common causes of TBIs in Sugar Land include car accidents, assaults, sports injuries, workplace accidents, defective products, and medical malpractice.
3. TBIs may lead to long-term health problems. Even mild TBI injuries can lead to long-term damage. Common long-term symptoms include depression, impaired movement, personality changes, impaired memory and cognitive function, impaired sensation, seizures, and paralysis. Some individuals may face TBI-related health problems for the rest of their lives. Currently, 5.3 million Americans need long-term support to perform activities of daily living.
4. There are physical, sensory, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms of a TBI. The symptoms of a TBI are wide-ranging and depend on several factors, including the type of injury, the severity of the injury, and the area of the brain you injured. Potential physical symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Examples of sensory symptoms include blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and changes in smell. Possible cognitive or behavioral symptoms of a TBI include confusion, depression, mood problems, and difficulty concentrating.
5. There are three types of TBIs—mild, moderate, and severe. Mild TBIs (concussions) are the most common type of TBI. Mild TBIs occur when the individual feels dazed or loses consciousness for less than 30 minutes. Moderate TBIs occur when the individual loses consciousness for over 30 minutes but less than one day. When an individual suffers a severe TBI, they lose consciousness for over one full day.
6. Treatment for TBIs can be long-term and expensive. The medical treatment will depend on your injury. Treatment may involve medications, surgery, and rehabilitation. A TBI suffered in childhood can have devastating consequences and disrupt the child’s development. Anyone who suspects they have sustained a TBI should immediately seek medical treatment. Receiving the proper treatment as soon as possible can help speed recovery. The medical costs of treating a TBI can be significant. It is critical to keep copies of all medical bills and records in case you have a legal claim and are entitled to compensation.
7. You may be entitled to damages if you have suffered a TBI. You might be entitled to compensation if your TBI was caused by someone else’s negligent or wrongful act. Potential damages you may be entitled to in Sugar Land include medical bills, lost wages, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, loss of life’s enjoyment, loss of companionship, and punitive damages. The compensation you are entitled to will depend on the unique facts of your case and the severity of your injury. Adam Capetillo is a knowledgeable Sugar Land personal injury attorney who will work on your behalf so you receive the compensation that you need.
What Should You Do If You Have Suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury in Sugar Land?
If you suspect you may have suffered a TBI, the first thing that you should do is to get proper medical treatment from a qualified professional. Any blow, bump, or jolt to the head should be checked out. Sometimes symptoms do not immediately appear, so it is important to get treatment even if you do not believe that the injury is serious. Even a mild TBI can be a cause for concern. Better safe than sorry.
After you have received medical treatment, you should reach out to a local Sugar Land personal injury attorney. If your injury occurred at work or resulted from someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you could be entitled to damages. An attorney will investigate your claim and inform you what your case may be worth.
Your Sugar Land Personal Injury Attorney
Adam Capetillo is an experienced Sugar Land attorney passionate about protecting the rights of his clients. If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, we encourage you to call our office today at (346) 249-5544 to schedule a free consultation.
