Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be caused by a variety of accidents or incidents. Common causes of TBI include:

  • Traffic accidents
  • Falls
  • Strokes
  • Contact sports or sports injuries
  • Infections
  • Violence or abuse
  • Hypoxia (lack of oxygen)
  • Exposure to toxic chemicals
  • Birthing injuries

The most common causes of TBIs are traffic accidents and falls. In a traffic accident, a blow to the head or the head being suddenly jerked from side to side or backward and forward can cause a TBI. A penetrating head injury, caused by an object penetrating the skull and entering the brain, can also cause a TBI.

Because a traumatic brain injury can result in long-term, painful, debilitating conditions, it is always best to be checked by a physician after any head injury or accident. Many minor head injuries heal on their own given time and rest. However, severe cases of TBI can cause a permanent disability that can alter your life forever. Therefore, medical treatment is the best way to reduce the risk of permanent damage from a TBI.

Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

There are many symptoms of a TBI. You may experience one or several of these symptoms to varying degrees. The best course of action is to seek treatment after ANY head injury. However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience unexplained symptoms or symptoms persist or become increasingly worse.

Common symptoms of a TBI include:

  • Dizziness, loss of balance, or loss of coordination
  • Unconsciousness
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Headaches
  • Memory problems or problems focusing
  • Sensory problems such as sensitivity to light or sound, blurry vision, slurred speech, or ringing in the ears
  • Memory problems
  • Changes in mood or mood swings
  • Problems with sleep, fatigue, or drowsiness

For more information about TBI and the symptoms you should look for, visit the CDC website.

Reducing the Risk of a Traumatic Brain Injury

You may not be able to prevent an accident, but you can reduce your risk of suffering a traumatic brain injury by:

  • Always wearing your seatbelt when in a vehicle
  • Make sure children are always in child safety seats designed for their age, height, and weight
  • Wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle, bicycle, scooter, or skateboard
  • Wear helmets when competing in contact sports and when horseback riding, skiing, skating, and rock climbing
  • Reduce the risk of falls by securing rugs, repairing tripping hazards, and clearing clutter
  • Never operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol

If you are in an accident that results in a TBI, you may have a third-party claim against the person or party responsible for the accident. TBIs can result in substantial damages including long-term medical care, personal care, lost wages, and medical bills. You may be entitled to recover compensation for your financial damages and your non-economic damages (i.e. pain and suffering).

Call a New Orleans Accident Attorney

If you are injured in an accident, seek medical attention even if you don’t believe you are seriously injured. After you receive medical care, call our office to request a free consultation with a New Orleans accident attorney.

Call Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free consultation with a New Orleans accident attorney.