A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most serious injuries a person can sustain in an accident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 190 TBI-related deaths every day in the United States. For survivors, the effects can range from temporary symptoms to permanent, life-altering disabilities that impact every aspect of daily life.
If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, understanding your injury and legal rights is essential to pursuing the compensation you need for recovery.
What Is A Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force causes damage to the brain. This can happen through:
- A direct blow or bump to the head
- Rapid acceleration or deceleration (such as in a car crash)
- A penetrating injury (such as from a projectile)
- Blast waves from an explosion
TBIs can result in bruising, bleeding, torn tissues, and other physical damage that disrupts normal brain function. The effects may be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Common Causes Of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Brain injuries frequently result from accidents caused by negligence. Common causes include:
Motor Vehicle Accidents – Car accidents, motorcycle collisions, and truck accidents are leading causes of TBI, especially when victims strike their heads on steering wheels, windows, or pavement.
Falls – Slip and fall accidents caused by hazardous conditions are a primary cause of TBI, particularly among older adults and young children.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents – Pedestrians and cyclists struck by vehicles often suffer severe head trauma even when wearing helmets.
Assaults – Violent attacks involving blows to the head can cause serious brain injuries.
Sports and Recreation Injuries – Contact sports and recreational activities can lead to concussions and more severe TBIs.
TBI Severity Levels
Medical professionals classify traumatic brain injuries into three severity levels based on factors including the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, duration of loss of consciousness, and length of post-traumatic amnesia.
Mild TBI (Concussion)
Mild TBI, commonly known as a concussion, accounts for the majority of brain injuries. Characteristics include:
- Loss of consciousness lasting less than 30 minutes (or no loss of consciousness)
- Post-traumatic amnesia lasting less than 24 hours
- Glasgow Coma Scale score of 13-15
While called “mild,” these injuries should be taken seriously. Some individuals experience persistent symptoms for weeks or months, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome.
Moderate TBI
Moderate traumatic brain injuries involve:
- Loss of consciousness lasting 30 minutes to 24 hours
- Post-traumatic amnesia lasting 1-7 days
- Glasgow Coma Scale score of 9-12
These injuries often require hospitalization and can result in long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
Severe TBI
Severe TBIs are life-threatening injuries that frequently result in permanent disability. Characteristics include:
- Loss of consciousness lasting more than 24 hours
- Post-traumatic amnesia lasting more than 7 days
- Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3-8
Survivors of severe TBI often require extensive rehabilitation and may never fully recover.
Symptoms Of Traumatic Brain Injury
TBI symptoms vary widely depending on the type and severity of injury. They may appear immediately or develop days or weeks after the initial trauma.
Physical Symptoms:
- Headaches
- Dizziness and balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Seizures
Cognitive Symptoms:
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion and disorientation
- Slowed thinking and processing
- Difficulty with problem-solving
Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms:
- Mood swings and irritability
- Anxiety and depression
- Personality changes
- Impulsivity
- Social withdrawal
If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident involving head trauma, seek medical attention immediately.
Long-Term Effects Of TBI
Research shows that moderate to severe TBIs can cause chronic health problems lasting years or even a lifetime. According to CDC data, among those still alive five years after a moderate to severe TBI:
- Many require ongoing assistance with daily activities
- A significant percentage are unable to return to work
- Risk of seizures, depression, and other conditions increases
Additionally, people with moderate or severe TBI have a life expectancy approximately nine years shorter than the general population.
Compensation For Brain Injuries
Because traumatic brain injuries often result in extensive medical treatment, lost income, and permanent disabilities, compensation in TBI cases can be substantial. Recoverable damages may include:
- Emergency and ongoing medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Home modifications and assistive devices
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Future care needs
Learn more about the types of compensation available in our guide to economic vs. non-economic damages in California.
Proving A Brain Injury Claim
TBI cases require thorough documentation and often involve testimony from medical professionals, neuropsychologists, and life care planners. Key evidence may include:
- CT scans and MRIs
- Neurological evaluations
- Neuropsychological testing
- Medical records documenting treatment and prognosis
- Testimony from family members about changes in behavior and abilities
Talk To A California Personal Injury Lawyer
Brain injury cases are complex and require attorneys who understand both the medical and legal aspects of these devastating injuries. At Cohen Injury Law Group, we fight for TBI victims throughout Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Malibu, and all of California. Our brain injury lawyers work to ensure you receive the compensation needed for your recovery and future care.
Contact us today for a free consultation.