A brain injury—also known as Traumatic Brain Injury (“TBI”)—is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the country. These injuries result from blunt trauma to the head following exposure to a significant amount of force. Brain injuries are often accompanied by bruising, swelling, bleeding, twisting or tearing of brain tissue and a lack of oxygen to the brain (hypoxia).
Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of brain injuries in the United States. Brain injuries resulting from car accidents often occur when an occupant strikes their head on the windshield, door, window and/or steering wheel. Driving in excess of the speed limit can dramatically increase the severity of a brain injury. TBIs may also result from severe “slip and fall” events, medical errors or malpractice, sports-related injuries and workplace negligence (especially in the construction arena).
The true severity and effects of a brain injury may not be readily apparent. Damage to the brain can be temporary or permanent and range from mild to severe. While some damages appear instantly following an accident, others may take months or even years to present clinically. For example, a myth exists that a concussion—one of the most common brain injuries sustained during sporting events or vehicle accidents—requires that the injured party lose consciousness for a period of time. Sadly, this misapprehension frequently leads to concussions going undiagnosed until the symptoms progress and the injured party continues to suffer.
If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to the negligence of another party, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.
