Three Facts About Traumatic Brain Injuries

The human brain is responsible for both executive and lower level functions throughout the body. When a person injures an arm or other extremity, the affected limb may suffer a loss of function but the brain continues to work. However, when a North Carolina resident endures a brain injury, their extremities, respiration, and even life may be threatened.

That is because the brain is the control center of the body and its health is imperative to the health of the rest of the system. This post addresses a serious form of brain harm - traumatic brain injury - and what happens when a person suffers it. This post should not be interpreted as guidance as it provides no legal or medical advice.

Fact #1: Traumatic brain injuries have different causes

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury that causes damage and harm to the brain. Many TBI are caused by impact injuries. These injuries happen when a victim's head hits another surface, such as when a motorist's head hits their car's dashboard during a motor vehicle accident.

However, TBI can be caused by penetration injuries as well. Penetration injuries happen when a foreign object, like a rod or a bullet, enters the victim's brain. Any form of TBI should be evaluated and treated by a medical professional.

Fact #2: Traumatic brain injuries have different levels of severity

Not all TBI are the same. Some TBI result in minor harm that remedies itself over time. For example, mild concussions are a form of TBI that may not cause a victim to suffer extensive personal suffering and losses.

Serious TBI, though, can be both excruciating and debilitating. It can impact how a person moves, thinks, and feels. It can cause pain in the form of headaches, sleep disturbances, and even mood changes. It can impact all aspects of a person's life.

Fact #3: Traumatic brain injuries may be compensable

After a TBI-causing accident, a victim should seek medical help to ensure their injury is properly diagnosed and treated. Once they are on the road to recovery, they can choose to work with a personal injury attorney. A legal professional who represents TBI victims can advice their clients on how the law may avail them to the recovery of their damages through personal injury litigation.