Compassionate Injury Law Firm Serving Families of Brain Injury Victims in Washington
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a severe injury – one that does not usually include a swift recovery. In fact, most people who suffer from a TBI will have long-term ailments, and some may never recover the life they once had. If you have a loved one who is suffering from a TBI that was caused by someone’s negligence, you may qualify for compensation under personal injury law. But, you must first speak with an injury attorney to explore your options.
It is important to understand what a victim goes through when he or she has suffered from a traumatic brain injury. Understanding this will not only help you better understand what your loved one is experiencing, but it will also provide you with insight about the road ahead.
Initial Recovery
The first few days after a TBI diagnosis are critical. This is a time where a patient’s mortality rate may be increased. A physician will work to reduce brain swelling and stop any bleeding present. The physician will also monitor the patient’s blood pressure, oxygen levels, and heart rate.
If the patient regains consciousness, he or she may be confused or agitated. The patient may also have slurred speech, blurred vision, or an inability to talk. Most will not remember the first few days of recovery, while some others remember it clearly.
Loved ones who are helping the victim recover must be patient during these initial recovery days. They must do what they can to keep their loved one calm, and reduce agitation. A comforting touch, or some reassurance that everything will be okay, may be all the victim needs.
Changes That Come With a TBI
Most victims are unaware of the changes that they will encounter with a TBI. While some people are lucky enough to receive a TBI and have no physical, mental, or emotional changes, this is rare.
Those with a TBI may suffer personality and physical changes, including:
- Depression or anxiety
- Memory loss
- Easily angered
- Physical impairment
- Loss of hearing, vision, or speech
- Communication difficulties
- Headaches and recurring migraines
- Nerve pain
- Sleep difficulties
- Mental and physical fatigue (even with sleep)
Recovery Predictions
Most physicians will give an educated guess as to how a victim will recover, but sometimes they cannot tell a patient for sure how his or her future will be. The location of the injury to the brain is a determining factor in how the patient’s quality of life will be in the future. Sometimes, a physician will know if a patient will never fully recover just because of the location of the injury.
Regardless, TBIs come with long-term recoveries that often affect the patient for the rest of his or her life. Even if the majority of changes and symptoms go away, there may be minor symptoms that remain, such as an inability to sleep or emotional issues.
Receiving Compensation For a TBI
Those suffering from a TBI due to the negligent acts of others may receive compensation for their medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They may also be eligible for future medical costs and suffering, especially if the patient will never fully recover.
If you or a loved one from Seattle or any other areas in Washington has suffered from a TBI, contact Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner PLLC today. Our injury attorneys are here to help you through this difficult time. Our brain injury lawyers will work as your advocates to ensure that you receive the compensation deserved. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation now by calling 800-925-1875 or requesting more information through our online contact form.
