Brain Injury Questions
What is a Brain Injury?
Brain injuries occur unexpectedly, and are often the result from a fall, automobile accident, or blow to the head. The effects of the brain damage are often the greatest immediately after the injury, as the brain suffers temporary damage from swelling and bruising (contusions). It is tricky, therefore, to predict the degree of long-term damage in the first few weeks following a traumatic brain injury. Thousands of Canadians incur traumatic brain injuries each year. Many will have a normal life expectancy, but will need specialized care.
Could I have suffered a brain injury if I didn’t lose consciousness?
Yes. Medical studies have shown that permanent brain injuries can occur without significant loss of consciousness, despite negative MRI and CT scans. Victims do not have to lose consciousness to experience long-term effects such as impaired cognitive ability and altered emotional behaviors.
What are some of the effects of traumatic brain injuries?
Some common brain injury effects include memory loss, impaired reasoning skills, and various degrees of speech impairment. Some will suffer physical disabilities such as limb paralysis, vision and/or hearing loss. Other people lose their sense of smell, or must endure headaches or seizures. Emotional effects vary, but may include frustration, depression and difficulty maintaining friendships due to new communication barriers.
Who can sue for a traumatic brain injury?
Anyone who sustains a traumatic brain injury as a result of another party’s fault can bring a claim against that person or organization. This can include anything from assault to a faulty product. You may be entitled to compensation depending on the circumstances of your injury. You could receive reimbursement for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, diminished earning capacity, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Do I need to hire an attorney?
There are many complex issues following a brain injury accident. Failure to understand the significance of traumatic brain injuries can lead to unfair compensation. Contact a knowledgeable brain injury lawyer so that he or she can help you collect the maximum restitution for your claim.
What is the treatment for a brain injury?
Immediate treatment often involves surgery to control bleeding in and around the brain, monitoring and controlling intracranial pressure and ensuring adequate blood flow to the brain. Hospitalization is often essential to treat the victim for other injuries and/or infection.
What are the best ways to prevent a brain injury?
Wear a seat belt, don't drink and drive, stay alert for other intoxicated/aggressive drivers on the road, wear a helmet when riding a bike, motorcycle, dirt bike, ATV, etc.
What can friends and family do?
Brain injuries occur in different areas of the brain with various levels of severity—so each case is unique. Many injuries impact the victim’s personality, communication, thinking and/or motor skills. Friends and family should be patient, flexible and supportive during this difficult time, as they can not see many of the changes that a brain injury survivor undergoes.
Findlay Law Offices helps brain injury victims recieve the compensation they deserve. We provide legal and emotional support during your time of need. If you’re in Ontario, in the areas of Toronto, Hamilton, Brantford, Kitchener, Burlington or Niagara Falls, please contact us today. We offer free consultations, where we can help you explore all your legal options today!
THE PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS