A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of damage to the brain that can occur after a traumatic event. TBI can range from mild concussions to more severe problems, such as skull fractures or bleeding in the brain.

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a sudden blow, hit, or jolt to the head and body. Concussions can cause various symptoms, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and problems with memory or concentration.

More severe traumatic brain injuries can involve bleeding or damage to the brain tissue. These injuries can lead to long-term problems, such as paralysis, problems with speech or cognition, and even death.

Traumatic brain injuries are the leading cause of death and disability. Each year in the US, about 2.87 million people suffer a TBI. Of those, about 50,000 die, and 235,000 are hospitalized.

In today's article, let's explore some of the most important things you should know about traumatic brain injury. Here's what you need to know:

The Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of TBI can appear immediately after the injury or may not appear until days or weeks later. The most common symptoms of TBI include:

• headache
• dizziness
• confusion
• lightheadedness
• nausea
• blurred vision
• ringing in the ears
• bad taste in the mouth
• fatigue or drowsiness
• trouble sleeping
• sleepiness during the day
• mood swings
• irritability
• depression
• anxiety
• memory problems
• difficulty concentrating
• slurred speech

TBI can be difficult to diagnose, and some symptoms may not appear until days or weeks after the injury.

How Do These Injuries Occur?

Various things can cause TBI, and it’s essential to be aware of the risks. TBI can devastate a person’s life, and it’s vital to do everything possible to prevent it.

The leading cause of TBI is car accidents. The force of the impact during a car accident often leads to hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or window. This can result in a concussion or more severe brain injury.

Another common cause of these injuries are falls. When you fall and hit your head, you can sustain a concussion or other brain injury. This is especially true if you’re elderly, as falls are the leading cause of TBI in people over the age of 65.

You can also sustain a TBI from being hit with a blunt object, such as a baseball or a hammer. 

Primary Injury vs. Secondary Injury

We often hear the terms "primary injury" and "secondary injury" when referring to the effects of an accident or injury. But what is the difference between these two types of injuries?

A primary injury is initial damage that is done to the body as a result of an accident or injury. This can be something like a broken bone or a laceration.

A secondary injury is any additional damage due to the primary injury. For example, if someone breaks their leg in an accident, they may also suffer from a secondary injury like a blood clot.

In some cases, a secondary injury can be just as severe as a primary injury. It's essential to get prompt medical attention after an accident or injury, even if you don't think you've been seriously hurt.

How to Prove a Personal Injury Case for Brain Trauma

To prove a brain injury case, the victim must show that the injury was caused by another person or entity's negligence. This means that the victim must be able to show that the other person or entity owed them a duty of care and that this duty of care was breached. The victim must also be able to show that the breach of duty was the direct cause of the victim's injury.

Many things can cause a brain injury, but to prove negligence, the victim must show that the person or company responsible for the injury was at fault.

Proving a brain injury case can be complex and challenging, but with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can get the compensation you deserve.

Why You Should Hire a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim

You may be wondering if you need to hire a lawyer to help you with your injury claim. Of course, you don't need to have an attorney. There are several advantages to having one on your side.

1. The Legal System Can Be Complicated, But a Lawyer Can Help You Navigate it

The personal injury claim process can be very confusing and difficult to navigate. A qualified personal injury lawyer can provide guidance and support throughout the process.

‍2. A Lawyer Can Help You Build a Strong Case

Your personal injury lawyer will be able to investigate your accident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf. This is important as insurance companies will often try to lowball injury victims who don't have legal representation.

3. To Get the Compensation You Deserve, It's Important to Work with a Lawyer

The personal injury lawyer you choose can fight for you to get the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. This includes compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and more.

If you've been injured in an accident, don't try to handle the claim on your own. Be sure to contact a lawyer and get the proper help you need.

The Bottom Line

Traumatic brain injuries can result in a wide range of cognitive, physical, and emotional symptoms, leading to long-term disability or even death. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for TBI, and recovery can be a long and challenging process. However, with the right support and resources, many people with TBI can make a full or partial recovery.

If you are looking for an accident lawyer in Los Angeles, we can help you. Here at Mendez and Sanchez Law, you will only find the best. Our attorneys and team members are here to help you through the difficult legal landscape as we pursue the compensation you deserve. Please contact us for your injury, auto accident, workers' compensation, and other legal needs today.