Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can lead to severe long-term health issues. They can cause disabilities and deaths. Also, a TBI increases your risk of developing other severe illnesses like Parkinson’s disease. If you have sustained a TBI in an accident that resulted from the negligence of another party, a Sattiraju & Tharney personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights.
In general, a TBI results from a forceful blow or jolt to the head, which can happen during a car accident, a serious fall, a sports accident, or an assault. This condition may be particularly serious if an object enters your head and pierces your brain. Signs of TB include confusion, speech issues, muscle weakness, memory problems, and loss of consciousness. When you file an injury claim for a TBI, you may be able to recover different damages including the following:
Medical Expenses
A big part of your claim settlement is based on the medical expenses you have incurred following the accident. These expenses include hospital visits, emergency room visits, rehabilitation, as well as imaging tests like CT scans and MRIs.
Lost Income and Lost Earning Capacity
Your settlement also includes the amount of income you lost while you get treated and hospitalized for a TBI. If you can return to work, you may only be able to work a reduced number of hours because of your condition. Or you may need to quit your job and find a less demanding one. A serious TBI may prevent you from returning to work altogether. When you calculated your expected future earnings, you need a vocational expert to give testimonies about how much lifetime wages you could lose because of your injury.
Lifecare Costs
Depending on the seriousness of your TBI, you may be compensated for lifecare. Since a TBI can affect your life for many years or may not heal at all, you may need continuing medications, physical therapy, or assistance with everyday tasks. You will need a life planner to evaluate the costs of these services.
Pain and Suffering
Your settlement can include compensation for emotional damage and pain and suffering. A TBI can be psychologically and physically devastating. Even a mild case of TBI can lead to depression and compromise your quality of life. Also, it can ruin your relationships and leave you unable to take part in activities you used to enjoy before the accident. Keep in mind that there is no standard amount of compensation you can receive for a TBI claim. Every case is unique, but your attorney will work to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.