Brain Injury Lawyer FAQs

According to the Brain Injury Association of America (BIA), about 2.8 million people in the U.S. sustain a traumatic brain injury each year. A brain injury can have serious and lasting consequences for the victim, their family, and their community. 

If you suffered a traumatic brain injury due to negligence, speak to a traumatic brain injury lawyer in Anaheim to learn more. You may qualify for financial compensation to help you cover past and future medical expenses, lost income, and more. 

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury is caused by a violent blow or jolt to the head that causes the brain to move quickly back and forth. It can also be caused by an object penetrating the brain tissue. 

Certain types of mild or moderate traumatic brain injuries cause short-term or temporary problems, while more severe cases can result in permanent disability or death. 

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Also known as a concussion, a mild traumatic brain injury is generally not considered life-threatening and does not typically result in a loss of consciousness. Concussions are the most common type of traumatic brain injury. 

Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury

A moderate traumatic brain injury is classified by a loss of consciousness for over 30 minutes, but less than one day. 

Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

A severe traumatic brain injury results in a loss of consciousness for more than 24 hours, and may lead to a coma. A severe brain injury can also lead to permanent damage.

Uncomplicated Traumatic Brain Injury

An uncomplicated TBI is characterized by normal neuroimaging tests like CT and MRI scans. 

Complicated Traumatic Brain Injury

A complicated TBI  is when a person has a Glasgow Coma Score of 13-15, or imaging tests show changes in brain function or bleeding. 

Closed

Also known as a non-penetrating TBI or blunt TBI, a closed traumatic brain injury is caused by an external force that causes the brain to move within the skull. 

Open

Also known as a penetrating TBI, an open traumatic brain injury happens when an object, like a bullet, penetrates the skull and enters the brain tissue. 

Nontraumatic

A nontraumatic brain injury is also referred to as a hypoxic or anoxic brain injury. These brain injuries are not caused from trauma, but rather from an illness like a stroke or seizure, a near-drowning experience, an aneurysm, or cardiac arrest. 

What Causes a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Traumatic brain injuries occur due to several different causes, such as:

• Falls: Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in the U.S. A fall from a ladder, down stairs, or in the shower are particularly high for older adults and young children. 
• Car accidents: The force and impact of a car accident can cause a closed or open head injury. 
• Motorcycle accidents: Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of suffering traumatic brain injuries in a road collision.
• Pedestrian accidents: Pedestrians are totally exposed on the road with no protection. A hit from a motor vehicle can result in severe brain injuries. 
• Sports injuries: Football, hockey, and soccer players are at an increased risk for brain and head injuries. Concussions in contact sports are very common. 
• Bicycle accidents: Bicyclists in California are not required to wear a helmet if they are over 18. Without a helmet, they run the risk of suffering a brain injury. 
• Blast injuries: Combat soldiers and active-duty military personnel may suffer from a traumatic brain injury from an explosion or shrapnel. 
• Violence and assault: A gunshot wound, domestic violence, or child abuse can cause a traumatic brain injury. 

If you suffered a brain injury from an accident caused by another person’s wrongful actions, it is crucial to reach out to an experienced brain injury attorney. Our Anaheim personal injury law firm has experience representing brain injury survivors and securing maximum compensation for them. 

Signs and Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury symptoms are varied and often difficult to detect, especially if the person does not lose consciousness. Symptoms may appear immediately after the injury or may develop over weeks or months. Some symptoms may be temporary or permanent. 

A traumatic brain injury can result in the following symptoms:

Physical Symptoms

• Headaches
• Blurred or double vision
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness 
• Loss of balance
• Sensitivity to light or sound

Cognitive Symptoms

• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness
• Memory loss
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in sleep patterns

Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms 

• Mood changes or swings
• Fatigue
• Irritability 
• Feeling anxious or depressed 
• Changes in personality 

How Do You Prove Negligence In Traumatic Brain Injury Cases?

Sometimes, a traumatic brain injury is the result of a sports-related accident or fall at home. Other times, it is the result of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. For example, if a driver was speeding and hit you, causing your injury, that driver would be considered negligent. If a property owner failed to caution customers of a dangerous condition, they could be held liable. 

If a negligent person or entity caused your brain injury, you may be able to file a traumatic brain injury case. This type of case functions similarly to a personal injury case wherein the traumatic brain injury victim pursues compensation from the at-fault party. 

Do You Need a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer?

If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. A traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you by:

• Gathering evidence and proving the cause and extent of your injury
• Negotiating with the insurance companies and other parties involved
• Representing you in court and fighting for your rights
• Securing the best possible outcome for your case 

A traumatic brain injury can be a life-changing event that affects not only the injured person but also their family and friends. After you seek medical attention, consult with a brain injury lawyer. They can help you navigate the complex traumatic brain injury claim process and ensure that you receive the justice and compensation that you deserve. 

National Concussion Awareness Day

Concussions and other types of traumatic brain injuries affect millions of people in the U.S. If you experienced a traumatic brain injury, you may be feeling unsure if you are really “back to normal.” 

National Concussion Awareness Day is September 15, 2023. It began as a way to raise awareness and education about the prevalence, prevention, and treatment of concussions. Speak to our compassionate traumatic brain injury attorneys in Anaheim by calling us at (714) 395-5514 or sending us a message here.