A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have lasting consequences that extend far beyond the initial injury. TBIs range in severity from concussions to catastrophic injuries that cause lifelong disabilities, a vegetative state, or even death. Approximately 214,000 Americans suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) requiring hospitalization in a recent year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The long-term effects of traumatic brain injury vary by individual but can have repercussions that include impaired cognition, speech, emotions, movement, and social connections. If you or someone you love suffered a TBI due to someone elseās negligence, you can seek compensation to help cover medical expenses and other losses and prepare for whatever the future holds. An experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer can support you throughout the claims process.
At Trollinger Law LLC, your physical, emotional, and financial recovery is our top priority. Our award-winning law firm has recovered millions in compensation for injured clients in Maryland and Washington, D.C. You pay no fee unless we win, and it costs nothing to talk to us about your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
Our brains work by sending electrical and chemical signals between nerve cells. A traumatic brain injury is any sudden blow, jolt, or penetrating injury that disrupts these signals and interferes with normal brain function. TBIs may be mild, severe, or fatal:
- A concussion is a mild TBI that usually heals with rest and medical care.
- Severe TBIs may cause permanent brain damage and global impairments to all areas of the body.
Even though a concussion is often seen as a mild injury, repeated concussions over a short period can have significant long-term effects for injured people.
Leading Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries can happen accidentally or be the result of negligence or wrongdoing. The top causes of TBIs are:
- Motor vehicle accidents ā Car accidents can result in TBIs simply from the jolt of impact or when the head strikes an object in the cabin, like the dashboard. Collisions involving motorcycles, bicycles, and trucks are also significant contributors to head injuries.
- Falls ā Falls are a significant cause of traumatic brain injuries, including slip-and-fall accidents in public places.
- Workplace accidents ā Ladder falls, falling objects, and tripping hazards can cause workplace TBIs, especially in industries like construction and roofing.
- Violence ā Assault and physical attacks can cause severe trauma to the brain, whether itās a blunt-force blow or a penetrating force like a bullet.
- Sports injuries ā Athletes of all ages and abilities are vulnerable to TBIs, especially in high-impact sports like football, hockey, and boxing.
Long-Term Impact of Traumatic Brain Injuries
A study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma highlights the complex and ongoing effects of traumatic brain injury, regardless of whether the injury is mild, moderate, or severe. A traumatic brain injuryās long-term effects can vary, but many victims experience one or more of the following:
- Memory loss ā Many people who have sustained a TBI experience long-term cognitive deficits, such as difficulty concentrating, impaired judgment, difficulty with problem-solving and decision-making, and memory loss.
- Physical limitations ā TBI can result in long-term physical challenges, such as muscle weakness, difficulty with balance or coordination, and chronic pain. Some individuals experience blurred vision, hearing impairment, or sensitivity to light or noise.
- Increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases ā Traumatic brain injuries may elevate the likelihood of developing conditions like Alzheimerās disease or chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
- Emotional and behavioral changes ā Long-term effects of TBI often include emotional and behavioral changes, such as depression, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and impulsive behavior.
- Seizures ā People with a TBI may be at higher risk for developing seizures.
- Inability to work ā Traumatic brain injuries can impact an individualās ability to work, either at their former job or any type of employment, leading to vocational and financial challenges.
Legal Options for TBI Victims in Maryland
When negligence or wrongdoing causes a traumatic brain injury in Maryland, state laws provide avenues to seek compensation from various sources, depending on the facts of the case.
- Insurance claim ā You can seek compensation through the at-fault partyās insurance carrier, such as auto, property, or liability insurance.
- Personal injury lawsuit ā You can file a lawsuit against the responsible party to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Personal injury lawsuits may result from failing to reach an acceptable payout from an insurer.
- Workersā compensation ā If the brain injury happened at work, you could qualify for workersā comp benefits for medical costs and a portion of your lost income.
An experienced brain injury attorney can explain your legal options. In some cases, it could be possible to file a personal injury lawsuit and workersā compensation claim for a TBI, but only if a third party (not your employer) is responsible for what happened.
Why Hiring a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer Is Crucial
If you suffer from the long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury or are providing care to a family member with a TBI, dealing with insurance companies or legal challenges can feel overwhelming. You might not have the time or resources to demand the money you need to pay for long-term care, lost income, and other expenses.
When you hire a Maryland traumatic brain injury attorney, you get a legal professional who understands Maryland law and the proof you need to establish liability and fight for the compensation you deserve. Working with a qualified attorney allows you to focus on recovery or support your loved one while legal professionals do all the legwork to build your case.
At Trollinger Law LLC, we will:
- Determine the viability of your claim and the best avenue(s) to pursue compensation
- Collect proof of negligence to establish liability
- Obtain medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony to gain a complete understanding of your TBI and its effects on your life
- Negotiate with the insurer for maximum compensation
- Represent you in court if settlement negotiations fall through
While we work, you and your caregivers can focus on rehabilitation and adjusting routines to match your needs.
Call a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer in Maryland Today
At Trollinger Law LLC, we know the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury should not be overlooked. Not only is TBI recovery expensive, but it also comes with no guarantees. As you work toward a settlement for your losses, you need a legal professional in your corner to assess whether the offer is fair and will position you well for a comfortable future.
Our traumatic brain injury attorneys have recovered millions in compensation for those affected by TBI and other types of personal injuries. Let our award-winning legal team fight for you and demand compensation to help you and your family. Contact Trollinger Law LLC today for a free consultation.
