Being injured in an accident can have a significant impact on your life. This is particularly true if the accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury. Even what seems like a simple bump to the head can lead to long-term problems like concussions or memory loss. Although tens of thousands of TBIs are diagnosed annually, there is no way to predict the impact this type of injury can have on your life.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when the brain’s normal function is disrupted due to a sudden blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head. In some cases, the injury is immediately apparent, but in others, symptoms may not appear for hours or even days.
A concussion, often considered a mild injury, is one of the most common types of traumatic brain injuries. However, even though it’s called “mild,” the effects can be serious. You might feel dizzy, confused, or have trouble remembering simple things like names or where you put your keys. In more serious cases, a TBI can cause ongoing memory loss, personality changes, or problems with thinking and speaking.
Common Causes of Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can happen in many ways. Some of the most common causes include:
- Car Accidents – The force of a motor vehicle collision can cause the sudden and forceful jerking of the head. This can lead to serious brain injuries, even if there’s no direct hit to the head.
- Falls – Slipping on a wet surface or falling down stairs can lead to a hard hit on the head.
- Sports Injuries – Contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey often involve hits to the head.
- Workplace Accidents – Many jobs involve heights, heavy equipment, or hazardous environments. These all carry a higher risk of head injuries.
No matter how it happens, a TBI can affect work, school, relationships, and daily routines.
Signs You Might Have a TBI
The symptoms that a victim experiences with a traumatic brain injury can vary, depending on how severe the injury is. Some of the most common signs include:
- Headaches that don’t go away
- Feeling dizzy or off-balance
- Confusion or trouble concentrating
- Short-term memory loss
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Trouble speaking clearly
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Sleep problems
If you experience any of these symptoms following an accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention without delay. Even if you think you’re okay, a TBI can get worse over time without treatment.
How a Brain Injury Can Affect Your Life
Living with a traumatic brain injury can be difficult. Tasks that used to be easy, like following a recipe or keeping track of appointments, can suddenly feel overwhelming. Some people struggle with emotions, finding themselves angrier or more upset than they usually are. Others have trouble at work or school because they can’t focus the way they used to.
Recovering from a traumatic brain injury can be slow. In some cases, a full recovery might not be possible. Treatment often includes visits to doctors, therapists, and specialists. The medical bills add up quickly, and the injury might make it hard or even impossible to return to work.
Contact Our Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney Serving Oklahoma Today
If you’ve sustained a traumatic brain injury in an accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your losses and expenses. This can include money for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
At Farha Law, PLLC, we work with individuals and families facing these challenges every day. We understand what you’re going through and are ready to fight for the support and compensation you need. Call our traumatic brain injury attorney serving Oklahoma today to get started with a free consultation.