Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is one of the most serious of all types of injury. It involves trauma to various areas of the brain, and the results can range from mild to devastating. Understanding more about TBI can make it easier to know how to handle the aftermath of these injuries, particularly as it involves increased living expenses and medical costs. For those who have suffered a TBI, it is critical to receive compensation to pay for treatment.
The Classifications of Traumatic Brain Injury
TBIs can be classified into various categories based on the severity of the injury:
- Mild TBI or concussion. While concussions are classified as “mild” TBIs, there is nothing mild about the problems that can result from even a slight head injury. Concussions often happen when the brain is jolted within the skull, resulting in blood seeping into some part of the brain and causing damage. Even if there is no significant brain bleed, concussions can cause problems with learning, short- and long-term memory, and the ability to concentrate. While mild TBIs typically resolve within six months, some can cause permanent and lasting damage.
- Moderate TBI. Moderate TBIs often occur during falls or vehicle accidents. A moderate TBI may cause lasting damage and permanent changes in cognitive and physical abilities. Even if the head is not directly involved in the trauma, a moderate TBI may result. For example, in a contrecoup injury in which a person is slammed back and forth during a car crash, the brain is moved within the skull and significant damage may result.
- Severe TBI. The most serious TBIs can result in life-long injury and disability. In some cases, victims are permanently paralyzed, go blind or deaf, or lose the ability to speak. In other cases, cognitive impairment is so significant that the victim is unable to continue working or caring for himself or herself.
The outcomes of all types of TBIs can be very serious. About 22 percent of all people with a TBI die from their injuries; another 30 percent become steadily worse as the damage progresses. Only 26 percent are able to fully recover from their injuries. Clearly, traumatic brain injuries, even when classified as mild, are not minor injuries. They can have serious, life-changing consequences for victims and their families, and they must be treated seriously.
At Barber & Associates, we have been working with Alaskan personal injury victims for many years to ensure that they receive fair compensation for their trauma. We work with victims of traumatic brain injuries to be sure that the people or companies responsible for their injury are made to pay for their medical expenses, suffering and loss. We help these victims recover compensation that allows them to seek treatment, if possible, to alleviate the damage of a TBI. When treatment is not possible, we help the victims recover compensation to support their families or pay for their necessities. If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, call us today to learn more about how we can help you.