Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms and disabilities. The impact on a person can be profound, affecting cognitive function, physical abilities, emotional well-being, and daily life. TBIs are caused by an external force, such as a blow or jolt to the head, that disrupts the normal function of the brain.
If another person’s negligence caused your TBI, you may be able to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. The brain injury lawyers at Doehrman Buba Ring can help you navigate the legal process and fight for your deserved compensation. Contact our team for a free consultation today.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when an external force impacts the head hard enough to disrupt the normal function of the brain. This rapid motion can force the brain to move inside the skull, resulting in chemical alterations and potentially harming or stretching the brain cells. These injuries can range from a mild concussion, causing temporary disruption, to more severe injuries that may result in prolonged periods of unconsciousness, amnesia, or permanent impairment of cognitive, physical, and psychosocial functions. TBIs are not uniform; their effects and outcomes can vary greatly depending on the location and severity of the injury, as well as the individual characteristics of the person injured.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) can result from several kinds of incidents, including car crashes, sports-related injuries, falls, physical assault, and accidental hits to the head with hard objects (e.g., baseball bats or tools). These events lead to blunt-force trauma to the brain. Such trauma occurs when the head is either sharply shaken or struck, causing the brain to move violently within the skull. This rapid movement can damage the brain’s soft tissue, potentially leading to bleeding inside the skull. This internal bleeding increases pressure on the brain, exacerbating the injury.
The two most common causes of traumatic brain injuries include:
Slips and Falls
Slips and falls stand as the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), particularly among older adults and children. These incidents can occur anywhere, from wet floors in public places to tripping on uneven surfaces at home or in the workplace. Negligence plays a significant role when environments are not maintained safely, such as when spills are not promptly cleaned, hazards are left unaddressed, or adequate warning signs are absent. The risk amplifies in environments where there are potential hazards like clutter, loose rugs, or poorly lit areas.
When an individual falls, the sheer force upon impact with the ground or another solid object can cause the brain to collide with the skull, resulting in a TBI. This type of injury can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, depending on factors such as the height of the fall, the nature of the surface impacted, and the physical condition of the person involved.
Efforts to prevent slips and falls should focus on implementing safety measures, including maintaining clean, clutter-free walkways, ensuring proper lighting, installing handrails on stairs and in bathrooms, and emphasizing the importance of wearing appropriate footwear. For older adults, engaging in balance and strength training exercises can also reduce the risk of falls. Awareness and proactive prevention strategies are crucial in mitigating the occurrence of TBIs resulting from slips and falls, thereby protecting the well-being of individuals across all age groups.
Motor Vehicle Crashes
Motor vehicle crashes, including car and motorcycle accidents, constitute a significant cause of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI). The sudden and forceful impact experienced during these collisions often results in the violent movement of the head, causing the brain to collide against the skull. This harsh impact can lead to various forms of brain damage, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic injuries that significantly affect an individual’s cognitive functions, emotional state, and physical abilities. The severity of the injury generally correlates with the nature of the crash, such as the speed at the time of the collision and the safety features utilized within the vehicle.
Negligence is a critical factor in many motor vehicle accidents leading to TBI. When drivers engage in reckless behaviors, such as speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or failing to adhere to traffic laws, they significantly increase the risk of causing accidents that can result in severe brain injuries to others. Pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users are also at risk of TBI from vehicle collisions, highlighting the need for utmost caution and responsibility from everyone on the road.
Holding negligent parties accountable for their actions is an essential step in the aftermath of a TBI resulting from a motor vehicle crash. Individuals harmed in such accidents can seek legal recourse to obtain compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other related damages. Pursuing legal action not only serves to support the victim’s recovery process but also acts as a deterrence, emphasizing the importance of safe driving practices to prevent future occurrences.
In cases of TBI caused by motor vehicle crashes, it is crucial to work with legal professionals who have a deep understanding of both the medical and legal complexities involved. These specialists can help accurately assess the full extent of the damages and navigate the intricacies of personal injury law to ensure that victims receive the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve. Legal support becomes a fundamental pillar for victims and their families, aiding them in facing the challenges posed by the injury while holding negligent parties accountable for their reckless or careless actions.
Other causes include:
- sports injuries
- acts of violence
- workplace accidents
- military combat and explosions
- medical malpractice
At Doehrman Buba Ring, our Indiana brain injury attorneys have a wealth of experience in advocating for individuals who have endured traumatic brain injuries, as well as their families. We are committed to safeguarding your rights and providing support through this challenging period. If you or someone close to you has suffered a traumatic brain injury, we encourage you to reach out to us immediately.
TBI Classifications
Closed or Penetrating
TBI can occur in various ways, and the causes of TBI are often classified as either closed or penetrating head injuries. Closed head injuries refer to injuries where the skull remains intact while penetrating head injuries involve an object breaking through the skull into the brain tissue.
Closed Head Injuries
Closed head injuries occur when there is a blow to the head or the head is violently shaken, but the skull remains unbroken. This type of injury can cause the brain to bruise, tear, or swell. Closed head injuries are common in situations such as car accidents, sports injuries, or falls. Symptoms can range from mild, such as a concussion with temporary confusion or headache, to severe, involving prolonged unconsciousness or amnesia.
Penetrating Head Injuries
Penetrating head injuries happen when an object, such as a bullet or a shard of the skull, breaks through the skull and enters the brain tissue. This type of injury can lead to severe damage to specific areas of the brain, depending on the trajectory and speed of the object. Penetrating injuries are often considered more serious due to the direct harm to the brain tissue and the increased risk of infection. They require immediate medical attention to address both the injury and potential complications.
Understanding the distinction between these two classifications is crucial for medical professionals to provide appropriate treatment and for legal experts to assess the impact and determine liability in personal injury cases.
Severity of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are classified into three levels of severity—mild, moderate, and severe—based on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). This internationally recognized scale provides a reliable way to assess the extent and duration of altered brain function following an injury by evaluating a patient’s level of consciousness, as well as their ability to follow commands and communicate.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
A Mild TBI is often characterized by a GCS score of 13 to 15. Symptoms may include a brief loss of consciousness, dizziness, confusion, or memory disturbances. Mild TBIs are commonly referred to as concussions. While symptoms can be subtle and may not appear immediately, they can nonetheless have a significant impact on a person’s cognitive and emotional well-being.
Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury
Moderate TBIs are indicated by a GCS score of 9 to 12. These injuries generally result in a loss of consciousness that lasts from a few minutes to several hours, and they are accompanied by more pronounced cognitive and physical impairments. Patients might experience sustained confusion, behavioral changes, and difficulties with physical coordination. Recovery can vary widely and may require extensive rehabilitation.
Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Severe TBIs are marked by a GCS score of 8 or less, signifying that the individual is in a coma or a similar state of reduced consciousness. These injuries often result from significant blows to the head or penetrating wounds that cause extensive damage to the brain. Recovery from a severe TBI can be a long and uncertain process, with many survivors experiencing lasting physical, cognitive, and behavioral impairments.
A moderate or severe TBI can be debilitating and have a profound impact on a person’s life. It is essential to seek medical attention immediately after any head injury to prevent further damage and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Symptoms can vary widely based on the severity of the injury, but being aware of the common signs can help in seeking prompt medical care. Here’s a quick guide to the symptoms of TBI:
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Tinnitus (Ringing in the ears)
- Problems with speech
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Memory or concentration problems
- Mood changes or mood swings
- Feelings of depression or anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
Prevention of Traumatic Brain Injuries
While some causes of TBI are unavoidable, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of injury. These include:
- Wearing seatbelts while driving or using other motor vehicles.
- Following safety protocols in work environments, especially in high-risk occupations such as construction or sports.
- Wearing helmets during activities with a higher risk of head injuries, such as biking, skiing, or playing contact sports.
- Removing potential hazards from home environments that increase the risk of falls.
- Managing medical conditions that could lead to brain injury, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
By taking preventive measures and being aware of the risks, we can reduce the incidence and severity of traumatic brain injuries and ensure the safety and well-being of ourselves and those around us. Ultimately, understanding the different levels of severity, symptoms, causes, and prevention methods for TBI is essential for promoting better overall health outcomes and improving the quality of life for individuals who have experienced these injuries.
Doehrman Buba Ring Fights For TBI Accident Victims
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to someone else’s negligence, pursuing compensation is not only a right but a necessary step towards recovery and securing your future. Negligence could stem from car accidents, workplace incidents, or even slip-and-fall accidents, all of which can leave individuals with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Our team understands the complex nature of these cases and is dedicated to fighting for the rights of TBI accident victims.
The brain injury lawyers at Doehrman Buba Ring meticulously investigate each case, work with medical professionals to document the extent of your injuries, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for your pain, suffering, medical expenses, and any lost wages. Remember, you do not have to face this challenging time alone. Contact our expert legal team at Doehrman Buba Ring today to learn more about how we can support you in your pursuit of justice and compensation.
