Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be caused by car crashes, falls, acts of violence and playing sports. Fortunately, most people are far more aware of the chances of having a TBI even if they didn’t lose consciousness or aren’t experiencing obvious symptoms. That means that more people are being checked out by doctors after an accident just to be on the safe side.
Physical symptoms can include sensory issues, dizziness, headaches, memory problems and more. However, parts of the brain control how we process information and react to stimuli. Depending on what part of the brain was injured, a TBI can cause emotional and behavioral changes, including mood swings, depression, anger, anxiety and other problems. Someone can seem like a different person after a TBI.
Don’t neglect these issues in yourself or a loved one
It’s easy for TBI victims and their families to chalk these symptoms up to whatever caused the injury. If the TBI was suffered during a serious car crash, a violent crime or even a sports mishap that’s keeping someone from doing what they love for a period, loved ones assume that’s why they’re irritable or sad.
That may indeed be the case. However, if these symptoms aren’t recognized and treated as part of the injury, they can have long-term consequences that can affect a person’s job, education, relationships and more.
That’s why if someone else is responsible for the TBI, whether through their negligence or actions, you shouldn’t settle your case with the at-fault party’s insurer (or with them directly) until you know the full ramifications of the injury and what treatment and accommodations will be necessary. Having legal guidance can help you maximize your claim.