Though concussions and their effects are generally well-understood, many people are not as familiar with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
Here are some common myths about these injuries.
- “A TBI must involve direct head trauma”
While most TBIs involve direct trauma to the head, this is not always the case. They can also occur when an individual’s head jolts forward or backward very quickly, such as in whiplash. Sometimes, the brain can hit the skull twice – usually on opposing sides – causing TBIs in two different places. This may be known as “coup contre coup.”
- “Minor and moderate TBIs can’t cause disabilities”
Minor TBIs, such as concussions, generally lack the long-term effects of severe TBIs. However, their short-term effects are indeed serious and can become lasting problems if not treated properly. Even mild TBIs result in about 300,000 hospital admissions per year and many victims may suffer from depression, disorientation, insomnia/fatigue, or other debilitating conditions on their road to recovery.
- “The signs and symptoms of TBIs are immediate”
While some defense attorneys may argue that a delay in the onset of symptoms means that a TBI did not occur in the first place, this can be an unfounded claim. Medical studies have shown that some TBIs may not produce symptoms for hours or even one or two full days after an accident has occurred. Also, some individuals who suffer from fatigue or common headaches may not recognize them as symptoms of a more serious injury.
- “A TBI’s effects must fit particular patterns”
Even two victims of similar brain injuries can show different symptoms and neurological effects. Although doctors were more hesitant in the past to diagnose some injuries as TBIs if they did not fit particular established patterns, those days are long gone and the accuracy and precision of doctors’ diagnoses are certainly greater than ever before.
- “A TBI must involve a loss of consciousness”
While more serious TBIs may involve loss of consciousness, especially in serious car accidents, it is not a necessary part of suffering a TBI and resulting damage to brain tissue. Some may lose consciousness for only a second or less in an accident, which can go unnoticed in the heat of the moment.
- “Victims always recover fully from mild TBIs”
Many victims of TBIs may suffer from “post-concussive syndrome” or “second-impact syndrome,” both of which can cause long-term symptoms, and even those who do not may still have cognitive and/or behavioral complications which may not have reasonable time-frames for recovery. Every injury is different, so it is absolutely essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in an accident, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.