Types of Brain Injury: How They Affect Accident Victims
Here at the Law Offices of Sean M. Burke, we always put out focus on the people of Orange County. We take all cases seriously, and offer expert legal counsel to help our clients receive just compensation for their injuries.
Of the many cases that we deal with, brain injury and brain damage lawsuits are among the most serious. Brian injuries can change a person's life as well as the lives of their loved ones. Let's look at different types of brain injuries right now.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury refers to a type of brain injury that is the result of an external mechanical force causing brain damage and dysfunction. Most times a traumatic brain injury is the result of a violent collision or incident of some form, such as an assault, an auto accident, or a falling object.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
There are different types of traumatic brain injuries that may be sustained. Some of the more common kinds of TBIs include:
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Concussions – A concussion occurs when the brain strikes the skull as a result of a violent impact or movement. Repeated concussions may occur as a result of recurring trauma to the body or head, such as those sustained in contact sports, combat sports, and certain other occupations.
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Contusions – A contusion of the brain is bruising of part of the brain. This can be sustained during open or closed head injuries. Large contusions on the brain may require surgical removal.
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Diffuse Axonal Injury – This form of traumatic brain injury occurs as a result of strong shaking or sudden rotation of the head. Shaken Baby Syndrome is an example of this kind of brain injury.
Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries can lead to major problems with cognition, memory, motor skills, moods, and overall psychological well-being. Major head injuries that result in brain damage should always be taken seriously.
Acquired Brain Injuries
Also referred to as acquired brain disorders (ABD), this is a broad category to cover all sorts of brain injuries that are acquired after someone is born. This is different from congenital brain disorders.
Since we've noted physical trauma already, our primary focus here will be ABD not caused by physical injury.
Types of ABD Not Caused by Physical Trauma
Potential causes of ABD unrelated to physical trauma include the following:
- Stroke
- Infections
- Hypoxia (i.e., lack of adequate oxygen)
- Brain tumors
- Poisoning (e.g., lead poisoning in water)
- Substance abuse
Long-Term Effects of Acquired Brain Injuries
As with traumatic brain injuries, other types of acquired brain injuries can lead to a number of problems with cognition, motor skills, and overall mental wellness. If a brain injury of this sort occurs in a child's formative years, it can have lifelong repercussions. Given how much lead poisoning as been in the news as of late and how lead affects a child's growth and development, this has become a major concern for many people who live in older buildings or in buildings that have been poorly maintained by their landlords/owners.
Learn More About Brain Injury Cases
To learn more about your legal rights and options following a serious brain injury, be sure to contact our personal injury law firm today. The team here at the Law Offices of Sean M. Burke will work with you and fight diligently for your legal rights.
