What Qualifies as a TBI?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) always involves a blow to the head, but not every head injury qualifies as a TBI. A concussion, the most common TBI, generally resolves within a few weeks. Recovering from a more serious TBI can take months and such injuries can prove permanent. Keep in mind that every TBI is unique.
There are also non-traumatic brain injuries, which do not result from an impact to the head. Examples include brain tumors, diseases such as encephalitis, toxic injuries from chemical exposure, and anoxic injuries. The latter occurs when the brain does not receive adequate oxygen, such as after cardiac arrest.
A Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer at Ellis Injury Law knows the devastation a TBI causes to the victim and their family. We will hold those responsible for your injuries liable so you may receive the compensation you deserve and the rehabilitation you require.
Consciousness and TBI
A head injury qualifies as a TBI if there is some loss of consciousness. Not every person with a concussion will experience lost consciousness, but moderate to severe TBI victims will remain unconscious for some time. While a person with a mild TBI may lose consciousness for up to 30 minutes –although most people with concussions are only out briefly –a person with a moderate TBI may remain unconscious for up to 24 hours. A severe TBI involves loss of consciousness for more than one day.
Mild TBIs
Symptoms of a mild TBI may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Memory problems
- Vision issues
The person may undergo some personality changes, as well as mood swings and irritability. Someone with a mild TBI may not realize they have a brain injury, but people in regular contact with them realize something is amiss. Any blow to the head followed by any of these symptoms for more than a day or two requires medical attention.
Moderate and severe TBI symptoms
Moderate to severe TBIs are always medical emergencies. Seizures are a frequent symptom for those suffering a moderate to severe TBI. Waking the person up from sleep becomes difficult or impossible. Clear fluids may drain from the ears and nose.
The headache grows worse. Nausea and vomiting occur. The person loses coordination and the eyes dilate. Their speech may slur.
If conscious, the affected individual is profoundly confused. They may become aggressive or display other unusual behavior.
With the help of medical experts and economists, a traumatic brain injury attorney will determine the ongoing medical and related expenses needed for their client. Lost wages, loss of future wages, housing modification, and caregiving requirements are all taken into consideration when pursuing a fair settlement.
Contact a Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer
TBIs can cause long-term or lifelong impairment. If you or a loved one were diagnosed with a TBI resulting from another party’s negligence, the Los Angeles accident lawyers at Ellis Injury Law are here to help. To arrange a free consultation, call or text us 24/7 or complete our online form. There is never a fee unless we win.