Traumatic brain injuries are more common and more costly than many people realize. Some of the statistics that have been released by the Atlanta Center for Disease Control and the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System include:

• Almost 3 million people suffer a TBI every year
• About 50,000 of these people die from a traumatic brain injury
• Close to 300,000 people are hospitalized for brain injuries
• About 90 percent of those people who are injured require an emergency department visit
• Every day, over 150 people die from injuries that may include a head or brain injury
• Brain injuries cost the country about 60 billion dollars every year

There are many different types of brain injuries that someone may suffer. Understanding the breadth of head and brain injuries is essential so family members can respond appropriately if a loved one is hurt.

Like many traumatic injuries, someone could suffer many types of head and brain injuries. Some of the common types of traumatic brain injuries include:

• Concussion: Concussions have been in the news recently because of their association with football. A concussion is a blow to the head that may or may not result in loss of consciousness; however, any acute symptoms are typically temporary. Someone who has repeated concussions is at risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which has been the focus of the NFL in recent years.
• Contusion: A cerebral contusion is a term used to describe a brain bruise. When someone sustains a bruise on their skin, blood vessels near the surface are broken. This contributes to the black and blue color of the bruise. A similar situation happens with the brain. A cerebral contusion can typically be seen on imaging, and small blood vessels in the brain could rupture as a result. Long-term impacts depend on the location and severity of the contusion.
• Brain Bleed: A brain bleed is a severe injury that results from severe, direct trauma to the skull. A skull fracture can be seen with a severe injury. Some brain bleeds include an epidural hematoma, a subdural hematoma, and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. A brain bleed is always severe and requires emergency medical attention. It could even require emergent brain surgery. Some of the brain bleeds can be fatal.

Because of the severity of these injuries, it is essential to ensure that they are diagnosed as quickly as possible.

Like many injuries, any diagnosis of a traumatic brain injury will start with a history and physical. The physician will ask about the mechanism of injury and the symptoms that resulted afterward. Then, they will assess the patient’s neurological status to see if there are any problems with motor or sensory function. The types of deficits can provide clues regarding where in the brain the injury is located. After this, imaging studies may be needed to assess for a brain bleed or a bone fracture. Standard imaging techniques used include a CT scan and an MRI. A faster CT scan provides good information regarding bone fractures and brain bleeds. An MRI takes longer but does not use radiation, providing better soft tissue resolution.

The following video discusses how traumatic brain injuries are monitored and treated.

If you need legal assistance, consulting with a qualified lawyer specializing in the relevant area of law is essential. A lawyer can provide valuable guidance, represent your interests, and navigate the legal complexities on your behalf. Here are a few steps you can take to seek help from a lawyer:

• Research: Start by conducting thorough research to find lawyers who specialize in the specific area of law related to your situation. For example, if you require assistance with a traumatic brain injury case, look for personal injury lawyers or those experienced in medical malpractice.
• Referrals: Seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as friends, family members, or other professionals who may have experience with legal matters. They may be able to provide insights or refer you to reputable lawyers.
• Online directories: Utilize online directories or legal referral services to help you find lawyers in your area. These directories often provide information about a lawyer’s practice areas, experience, and client reviews, allowing you to make an informed decision.
• Initial consultations: Most injury attorneys offer free consultations to discuss your case and determine if they fit your needs. During these consultations, be prepared to discuss the details of your situation and ask any questions you may have about their experience, fees, and potential strategies.
• Evaluate experience and expertise: Assess the lawyer’s experience and expertise in handling cases similar to yours. Inquire about their successful track record and understanding of the legal issues related to your case. Choosing a lawyer with a strong background and relevant experience in handling traumatic brain injury cases is essential.
• Communication and rapport: Pay attention to how well you communicate with the lawyer during the initial consultation. Effective communication and a good rapport are crucial for a successful attorney-client relationship. Ensure the lawyer listens attentively, demonstrates empathy, and clearly explains legal concepts.
• Fee structure: Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure and payment arrangements during the initial consultation. Some lawyers work on a contingency basis, only receiving payment if they secure a favorable outcome for your case. Others may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. Understand the fee structure and ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations.
• Legal agreement: If you decide to proceed with a particular lawyer, carefully review and sign a legal agreement or engagement letter that outlines the terms and conditions of your working relationship. Ensure you understand the scope of representation, fees, and other relevant details.

If you or a family member has suffered a traumatic brain injury after an accident in Galt, call our experienced legal team today for free, friendly advice at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.

See our past cases on our Verdicts and Settlements page.

^{Editor’s Note: updated [cha 6.9.23] Photo by Natasha Connell on Unsplash [cs 1255]}