Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) refer to sudden damage to the brain which can occur due to a closed or open head injury. Closed head injuries can occur when a head strikes a windshield or dashboard in a car accident. Motor vehicle accidents, pedestrian accidents and collision-related accidents have been identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as leading causes of traumatic brain injuries. Victims can also suffer primary and secondary brain damage associated with traumatic brain injuries.
The CDC also reports that, each year, approximately 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries are suffered by victims. The severity of the impact of a traumatic brain injury depends on how widespread the injury is and the location of the injury. Victims can suffer physical problems, sensory problems, cognitive and communication-related problems, problems swallowing and behavioral problems as a result of a traumatic brain injury. The impacts of a traumatic brain injury can make it challenging for victims to live independently and can create significant stress for both victims and the victim’s family.
As a result, victims of TBIs may require ongoing medical treatment and care which can include speech language pathology, physical therapy, counseling, vocational training, in-home care and other forms of care. Medical care and treatment can also be ongoing or life-long. Depending on the nature and extent of the injury, victims may struggle to perform daily activities previously considered basic activities.
The costs associated with traumatic brain injuries can be an ongoing burden for many victims and families. When the cause of the brain injury is a car accident negligently caused by a careless driver, legal resources and options may be available to help victims recover compensation for the physical, financial and emotional costs that commonly accompany a traumatic brain injury.
Source: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI),” Accessed Dec. 12, 2016
