Brain injuries resulting from head trauma are much more serious and longterm than once believed. A blow to the head received during a motor vehicle accident – or the severe neck strain and muscle damage of “whiplash” – can produce the same kind of brain injuries that soldiers in former combat zones suffered due to their proximity to an explosion.
Despite there being not as much research done into the link between car crashes and TBI, as compared to football players and military personnel, the process of healing from a brain injury can take a very long time, if recovery is even possible. Brain injuries especially can affect victims’ physical, cognitive, and even emotional health.
If you or a loved one has suffered an accident leading to a brain or spinal injury, you and your family may be entitled to financial compensation to cover damages including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, rehabilitation, and much more.
Ada Health GmbH says 50% of people who sustain a concussion will experience PCS symptoms at about one month after the initial injury, while 15% will continue to experience PCS symptoms for one year after the initial injury.
The Neurological Rehabilitation Institute at Brookhaven Hospital cites a 2012 University of Oklahoma study on injured veterans diagnosed with brain injuries, which revealed that many of the subjects continued to experience headache pain and other symptoms as long as eight years after the injury date. Many of their symptoms worsened and increased over time, as did their likelihood of divorcing and becoming unemployed.
Brain injuries can be life-altering, and your condition may lead to permanent disability – preventing you from ever returning to work. Even in cases where TBI victims are able to return to work, permanent brain damage can significantly impact their lives. Fortunately New Jersey Civil Courts recognize these damages and frequently award higher payouts for victims of catastrophic injuries.
Additionally, lack of awareness, irritability, sensitivity to light or noise, memory problems, mood changes, sleep disturbances, persistent headaches, and even seizures are also signs of a concussion.
It is important to remember that once your personal injury settlement is final, there is no second chance to recover damages for a lifetime of medical bills, missed work, and other damages. Before signing any paperwork or agreeing to a lump sum settlement from an insurance provider, speak to our experienced Morristown attorney to understand your legal standing.
In the immediate aftermath of an accident always seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you may have sustained an injury that has yet to present symptoms. Waiting to visit a doctor can negatively impact a future personal injury. A doctor will be able to determine your injuries through an examination. This will ensure a brain injury diagnosis as soon as possible so you can receive the proper medical treatment you need. A diagnosis from your doctor will also link your injury to your accident. Your physician will rule out any previous conditions as to the cause of your concussion or brain injury and attribute it to the actual accident and not something other than the car accident.
Our attorneys at Cohen & Riechelson will review your personal injury claim. We will work for hand in hand to get the compensation you deserve. To learn more about the potential for financial compensation through a personal injury claim, please contact us online or call our Mercer County NJ offices today at (215) 337-4915 for a free and confidential consultation.