The brain is one of the most important, and complex, organs. It serves as the control center for the rest of the body. If the brain is impaired, a lot can go wrong. All of this considered, the fact that a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change a person’s life forever is not surprising.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a traumatic brain injury is a disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury.
Suffering a TBI can have long-lasting effects on a person’s health and well-being. In severe cases, basic motor skills may be impaired and it may become difficult to perform routine tasks. Memory my also be affected, with the injured afflicted by moments of “fogginess.”
After a TBI, a person may be unable to work and routine medical care. The strain on both the injured, and their family, can be immense.
However, if a person’s TBI was caused by negligence or wrongdoing, they can file a lawsuit against the responsible party. If the suit is successful, they could receive compensation for their injuries.
Factors to consider
Victims should a consider a whole range of factors before filing suit, but their case’s potential value is of utmost importance.
A TBI case’s value is determined by a few different factors:
- Pain and suffering: Did the victim suffer extensively? Was the initial injury that caused the TBI especially painful? If the answer is yes the plaintiff is likely to receive more in damages.
- Financial loss: Many TBI victims are unable to work for an extensive period. The court will factor into the damages total the loss of future wages.
- Medical care: If the victim requires routine medical care or assistance, such as a wheelchair, the court will often require the defendant to cover the cost.
No two TBI cases are alike; some people may recover quickly while others suffer permanent injuries. Before taking legal action, the victim and their family should weigh their options carefully and consult a lawyer that specializes in traumatic brain injuries.