Despite modern advances in brain research, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most challenging injuries to diagnose and treat. In fact, by 2031, TBI is expected to be one of the most common neurological problems affecting Canadians, along with Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias and epilepsy.
Unfortunately, TBI is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and in Canada, there are over 18,000 hospitalizations for TBI on a yearly basis, as 2% of the population live with a TBI. In a country where TBI occurs at an annual rate of 500 out of 10,000 individuals, it’s important to identify the symptoms. The following blog will discuss the possible signs of TBI after a motor vehicle accident and what are the legal steps to take when filing for compensation.
Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury
Symptoms of brain injury differ from person to person, and in many cases, it’s pretty difficult to be able to identify the long-term cognitive, behavioural, emotional or physical effects it can have. To avoid suffering from any long-term effects of TBI, you should seek medical attention immediately when any of the following changes arise or frequently happen after a car collision:
How a person acts or makes decisions can significantly change when suffering from a brain injury. They might feel more susceptible to engaging in impulsive or risky behaviour, have difficulty with personal or professional relationships and might isolate themselves from society.
The way the brain processes information, learns, and forms memories can change as a result of a TBI. One might have difficulty communicating with others, concentrating on regular tasks, writing, reading, and remembering information.
A car accident is a traumatic event, and victims who suffer from TBI due to the collision can very much experience severe emotional changes. A TBI can cause the victim to experience depression, bursts of anger, mood swings and personality changes.
In some cases, TBI can physically affect patients and impact their day-to-day activities as they often experience headaches, pain, fatigue, mobility challenges and sensory changes.
What To Do If You Think You Or Your Loved One May Have A TBI?
Time is of the essence when it comes to TBI, as it can quickly escalate if not immediately addressed. Take the following steps to protect your health and ensure rightful compensation for your injuries:
- First and foremost, seek immediate medical attention. As seen above, symptoms of TBI aren’t always alarming and can be misinterpreted as “just a headache” or “simple mood swings” by non-medical professionals. If you or your loved one has recently experienced a motor vehicle accident that resulted in a blow, bump or jolt to the head, visit the emergency room immediately.
- After receiving the proper diagnosis and treatment from your healthcare provider, start documenting all your injuries and damages. It’s important to note all the changes that you or your loved one has sustained following the accident, including:
- Medical bills
- Results of blood tests, X-Rays, CT Scans, Ultrasounds
- Prescriptions
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Emotional and psychological changes
- Lost wages due to inability to work
- Changes in your day-to-day activities
Remember, no detail is too minor! The more information you have on the injuries and damages you have sustained as a result of the car accident, the more likely you are to receive the compensation you deserve.
- Alberta’s accident injury law is complex, especially when it comes to filing a claim for traumatic brain injuries. In order to secure fair compensation that will cover the damages and injuries you have sustained from a car collision, you must seek the advice of experienced traumatic brain injury lawyers in Alberta.
Looking for Experienced Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers in Alberta?
James H. Brown and Associates have represented many Albertans in traumatic brain injury claims since 1993.
Our team of experienced traumatic brain injury lawyers is dedicated to helping individuals and their families overcome the hardships and challenges of TBI while ensuring that they receive fair and just compensation.
Contact us today to book a free consultation with one of our traumatic brain injury lawyers, or contact our 24/7 call center at (855) 428-0088 with any questions or concerns.