In many cases, the consequences of a traumatic brain injury do not manifest immediately. A blunt force trauma to the head that fails to leave a visible mark could result in significant injuries over time. However, these symptoms could take months or even years to develop fully.
Dealing with a traumatic brain injury claim without the guidance of an experienced injury attorney is risky. Given the unique nature of brain injuries, it is crucial to treat these claims with care. You only have one chance to settle a brain injury claim with the responsible party, and you cannot seek additional compensation if additional treatment is necessary. An Opelousas traumatic brain injury lawyer could help you hold the liable party responsible.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injury
A brain injury is considered traumatic if it results in long-term or permanent health consequences. In many cases, a traumatic brain injury could prevent a victim from maintaining employment or caring for themselves without assistance. An experienced Opelousas attorney could help a traumatic brain injury victim recover compensation for these injuries.
There are five types of traumatic brain injuries. They include:
- Concussions
- Diffuse Axonal Injury
- Coup-Contrecoup brain injuries
- Contusions
- Penetrating injuries
Concussions
The most common type of brain injury, concussions involve a violent jolt to the brain and are often referred to as mild traumatic brain injuries. However, the consequences of a concussion can still be significant in many cases. These injuries could result in behavioral changes, diminished brain function, and chronic pain.
Diffuse Axonal Injury
A diffuse axonal injury, or DAI, is similar in many ways to a concussion. These injuries also involve a sharp jolt to the brain. However, a DAI is more severe than a concussion, in that the jolt is so violent, it causes the connective tissue in the brain to tear. Large tears could even be fatal.
Coup-Contrecoup Injuries
A coup-contrecoup injury results from an impact so severe it causes the brain to rebound within the skull, striking the side opposite of the point of impact. This injury results in damage to two opposite parts of the brain.
Contusions
A contusion is another name for bruising of the brain. Unlike skin bruising, these injuries could be life-threatening. When the brain is damaged, bleeding could occur under the surface. When this bleeding goes untreated, it could result in fatal clotting.
Penetrating Injuries
Not every brain injury is the result of a blunt force trauma. In some cases, objects pierce the skull, causing damage directly to the brain. Gunshot wounds are a common cause of penetrating injuries.
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Shared Fault in a Brain Injury Accident
In some cases, a victim is partially responsible for the accident that caused their brain injury. For example, someone could suffer an injury in a vehicle crash for which they were partially responsible. It is important to note that a plaintiff still has the right to bring a brain injury lawsuit despite sharing fault.
Although state law does not prevent an Opelousas attorney from filing a brain injury lawsuit in this situation, that does not mean shared fault will not impact a plaintiff’s claim. A jury is tasked with determining the percentage of fault each party in a lawsuit shares and will reduce a plaintiff’s damage award by the degree of their fault.
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Speak with an Opelousas Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney Immediately
Whether your actions partially led to your brain injury or if you were blameless, you could have a strong claim for monetary damages. An attorney could analyze your claim to determine your degree of fault for the injury. Taking on a brain injury claim is a significant undertaking. Contact an Opelousas traumatic brain injury lawyer to learn about your options moving forward.
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