Everything You Need To Know About Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are one of the leading causes of disability globally. Approximately 500 out of 100,000 individuals are affected by some form of TBI. This equals to approx. 456 Canadians injured daily, or one person injured every 3 minutes (Brain Injury Canada). 

How Traumatic Brain Injuries Occur 

Traumatic brain injuries are often a result of a sudden blow to the head which can potentially cause short-term or long-term damage. For example, during a serious car accident, TBI can occur if a passenger experiences a direct blow to the head or neck resulting from the collision impact. 

The signs of TBI range from mild to severe and can happen immediately or they can increase gradually over time. This is the reason it is necessary to have a medical professional examine everyone after they’ve been involved in an accident.

Some TBI symptoms can last for hours, days, weeks or months, so it’s important to keep an eye out for the following signs after any accidents. Two of the most common symptoms to look for include:

Immediate loss of consciousness: If the passenger or driver does not move at all and appears to be sleeping, they may be suffering from a traumatic brain injury. If the person cannot be awakened or has difficulty staying awake, call 911 immediately. 

Problems with breathing: If the passenger or driver is having difficulty breathing, this can also be an immediate sign of brain injury. Call 911 immediately if any of the victims at the scene of the accident aren’t breathing.

What to Do If You Think You May Have A TBI

At James H. Brown and Associates, we understand how difficult it can be to help yourself or a loved one recover from a life-altering personal injury. We will help fight for our clients to receive their rightful compensation, allowing them to focus on their recovery journey. Follow the steps below:

Step 1: Get Immediate Medical Help

If you believe you or your loved one is experiencing a TBI, immediately call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. The earlier a professional can diagnose a TBI, the better chance they have of treatment working.

Step 2: Document All Damages

While waiting for the police to arrive, make sure to document the scene of the accident thoroughly. Take multiple photos and videos of the accident and try to get contact information from surrounding witnesses. Once you’re at the medical facility and the involved victim(s) is receiving treatment, ask for your own personal copies of any tests, scans and reports requested by the doctor. These documents will help us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Step 3: Call a Lawyer before your Insurance

This is a crucial step that people often forget about after a car accident. An experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer will help you understand your legal options, give you sound advice on what steps should be taken next, and help you and your family attain fair compensation for all resulting injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers at James H. Brown and Associates

Since 1993, James H. Brown and Associates have made it their mission to stand up for Albertans’ rights and help victims of motor vehicle accidents attain rightful compensation for their injuries. Our team of experienced traumatic brain injury lawyers have a proven record of success with brain injuries and are ready to help you and your family get the support you deserve. 

Your fair compensation is our business, and we are ready and waiting to help! Contact us today to speak to one of our experienced traumatic brain injury lawyers.