Traumatic brain injuries are often catastrophic in nature and can result in lifelong challenges for you and your loved ones. The attorneys at Johnson & Biscone have witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by brain injuries, and we’re here to help you through this difficult time in your life. Below are answers to common questions associated with this serious condition.
What are the most common causes of brain injuries?
A brain injury can occur from any trauma to the head. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common causes are:
- Falls (35.2%)
- Motor vehicle accidents (17.3%)
- Being struck by or colliding with a foreign object (16.5%)
- Assaults (11%)
How does TBI impact your brain and body?
A traumatic brain injury can impact any functions governed by your brain. This can include basic processes such as eating, sleeping and movement. It can also impact more complex functions such as:
- Cognition
- Communication
- Emotions
In serious injuries, TBI can result in neurological issues such as epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease. The exact ways in which you will be impacted by a brain injury are determined by the location and severity of the blow to the head.
What are the long-term effects of a brain injury?
Due to the varied nature of brain injuries, it’s often difficult to predict the specific long-term effects you may experience. Mild brain injuries, such as concussions, typically result in a full recovery. However, a severe TBI may cause you to experience one or more of the following long-term issues:
- Problems with basic cognitive skills, such as the ability to concentrate or to learn new information
- Confusion
- Challenges performing basic functions such as talking, listening or eating
- Changes in personality
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Irritability or aggression
- Vision problems
- Balance issues
- Changes to senses of smell, touch and taste
- Hearing issues, including ringing in the ears
Often, these issues can improve over time with the proper treatment. However, some brain injury victims never make a full recovery.
How is a brain injury treated?
Depending on the specific nature of your traumatic brain injury, treatment may involve one or more of the following:
- Acute rehabilitation programs
- Post-acute rehabilitation centers
- Sub-acute care provided by a nursing facility
- Day treatment programs
- Outpatient rehabilitation
- Long-term care or supervised living for patients struggling to recover basic functions
- Residential facilities specializing in the treatment of brain injuries
- Neurological medication management
- Neuropsychological testing
- Neurobehavioral management programs
- In-home treatment provided by medical specialists
The length of your rehabilitation varies based on the severity of your brain injury. In many instances, the treatments you need may evolve over time based on the extent to which you recover.
Can I file a lawsuit after suffering a brain injury?
The ability to file a lawsuit depends on the circumstances which caused your brain injury. If the negligent actions of another caused the injury, you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover compensation for your damages. This compensation may cover:
- Current and future medical bills related to your brain injury
- Ongoing rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Diminished quality of life
- Expenses related to any adaptations necessary to your home as a result of the injury
The attorneys at Johnson & Biscone will review your case free of charge and discuss your legal rights and options with you in detail. We’ll advise you as to the best way to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Oklahoma City Brain Injury Lawyers
Please contact Johnson & Biscone using the form on this page or call 405-232-6490 today to schedule your complimentary consultation. We serve clients in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma.
