Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)


long term effects of traumatic brain injury tbi

A severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) caused by a crash or fall can result in long-term and permanent injuries, including delayed death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, TBIs contribute to about 30% of all injury deaths, often stemming from workplace accidents, car crashes, and slip-and-fall incidents.

Families are often unprepared for the trauma, expenses, and medical needs that are required for complicated, life-long care. Understanding the complexities of TBI conditions can help families navigate the legal process and identify complete damages that may impact the outcome of their case.

When negligence causes a severe head injury, it is vital to enlist the expertise of a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Seeking complete damages with the help of an experienced attorney can provide your family with the resources and financial support to adjust to the difficulties of a new lifestyle, cover the costs of medical care, and offset lost wages and future earnings.

The Kern County award-winning team of personal injury attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates is known for their expertise in handling cases of catastrophic injury, including TBI, resulting from explosions and workplace injuries. Serious cases involving threatening injuries require time, talent, and resources that the firm is prepared to provide to obtain the best possible compensation for each situation. Our attorneys can help you understand the legal logistics of your case and determine the best course of action for your unique situation.

Lasting Conditions of Traumatic Brain Injury

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, four conditions can result from a severe TBI causing life-long effects:

  • Minimally Conscious State
    A person in a minimally conscious state will show minimal or inconsistent awareness. They may have periods where they can communicate or respond to commands, such as moving a finger when asked. A person may enter a minimally conscious state after being in a coma or vegetative state.
  • Vegetative State
    A person in a vegetative state is awake but shows no signs of awareness. They may open their eyes, wake up and fall asleep at regular intervals, and demonstrate basic reflexes. This condition is often the result of widespread damage to the brain.
  • Coma
    A coma is a state of prolonged loss of consciousness in which a person is unaware and unable to respond to external stimuli such as pain or light. A coma usually lasts a few days or weeks after which the person may regain consciousness, die, or move into a vegetative state.
  • Brain Death
    The permanent, irreversible, and complete loss of brain function necessary to sustain life. This means the person will not regain consciousness or be able to breathe without life support. A brain-dead person is legally confirmed as dead.

The Importance of Hiring a TBI Attorney

A severe brain injury requires immediate legal attention. Traumatic brain injury cases typically have layers of complexities due to medical complications, guardianship, and the pursuit of substantial damages. It is ideal to have a California brain injury attorney to help you navigate the medical treatment process as well as handle communication between the insurance companies and other involved parties.

In the event the injured person is deemed incapable of making legal decisions, a legal guardian can be appointed by a court to make decisions relevant to the personal and property interests. Our team can ensure your family has the proper representation in place to properly file claims and hold those responsible accountable for their negligence.

Specific Laws called statutes of limitations govern the timeframe in which specific legal actions can be taken. A skilled attorney with experience handling TBIs and their long-term effects can ensure the timely filing of your case.

Contact our Team Today

Rodriguez & Associates’ team of elite litigation attorneys has a track record of success protecting the rights of individuals and families affected by the negligent actions of others that caused serious and catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries.

Contact our team of award-winning attorneys today to discuss your case and identify your optimal path to full financial recovery.