Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a disruption in the brain’s normal function caused by blunt impact to the head or penetration of the skull. It is a common result of auto accidents in which a driver or passenger hit their heads or suffer severe jolts. The personal injury attorneys at The Pagano Law Firm LLC in Media, Pennsylvania are experienced with these catastrophic injuries and their severe consequences for both the victims and their families. We vigorously pursue damages that fully account for the devastating effects of TBI.
A traumatic brain injury can be sustained in any serious fall or other accident in which you strike your head. In an auto accident it can occur when your head hits the steering wheel, dashboard or other hard object. It may also be the result of “whiplash,” an acceleration and deceleration of the head that causes the brain to shake violently or twist inside the skull. That twisting can damage the axons – the delicate fibers that connect neurons (nerve cells) in the brain.
A TBI can reduce your brain’s capabilities, causing a number of cognitive deficits such as:
Other symptoms may be physical, such as:
TBI can also cause emotional and behavioral problems, such as increased anxiety, depression and mood swings, all of which can have a serious negative effect on your lifestyle and outlook.
In the case of a closed-head injury, where there has been no penetration of the skull, TBI symptoms might not be apparent for days or even weeks after an auto accident or other serious impact. Whenever you suffer a blow to the head, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible. At the very least, if you begin having cognitive, physical or other behavioral problems within a few months after the accident, you should see a doctor who can determine whether you have a TBI and assess the extent of your injury through a neurological examination or brain imaging scan.
If you have suffered a head injury in an auto accident or other mishap and suspect that it was caused by the fault of another person, you should consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable of and experienced in personal injury law. He or she can determine whether you have a case and, if so, sue the liable parties for your damages, including:
In Pennsylvania, a TBI suffered in an auto accident is considered a serious injury that allows recovery of damages from the negligent party, though your recovery will be reduced by the percentage of your own fault, if any, for causing the accident.
The Pagano Law Firm LLC represents drivers, passengers and pedestrians injured in motor vehicle accidents both in southeastern Pennsylvania. Please call us at 484-318-2561 or contact us online to schedule an appointment at our office in Media. We offer free consultations to personal injury victims.