Traumatic Brain Injuries In Florida Accidents
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when external trauma, usually blunt force (though not always), causes damage to the brain. They can be very minor, or they can be severe enough to require round-the-clock medical care. Road accidents are one of the leading causes of TBIs, and if you or an injured loved one suspect that another driver’s negligence played a role in causing a TBI, contacting the right attorney can help prepare them to bring a lawsuit seeking damages.
Often Not Immediately Apparent
TBIs are somewhat underreported after accidents, because very often, their symptoms are not immediately apparent for hours, days, or even weeks. As a result, symptoms like confusion, headaches, and dizziness can sometimes be treated as solely psychological symptoms, with insurance adjusters sometimes even suggesting no TBI occurred. This is why seeking medical care with a professional you trust as soon as possible is important; medical records are some of the most important evidence that can bolster a claim against a negligent driver.
If you suspect that another driver was the direct cause of your (or your loved one’s) TBI, the most common way people use to try and hold them accountable is to file a personal injury lawsuit based on negligence. A case of negligence requires that four criteria be shown to the court: (1) the existence of a duty of care, such as the one owed by all Florida drivers to all other road users; (2) a breach of that duty of care; (3) tangible injuries; and (4) a showing that the injuries were the direct cause of the plaintiff’s injury, with no other intervening factors.
Seek Treatment ASAP
It is crucial that a person with a suspected TBI seek medical treatment as quickly as possible, because while a more mild TBI, such as a concussion, can heal with no long-term effects, it is possible to have life-changing consequences if a TBI goes untreated. While most symptoms are physical, it is also possible for a TBI to trigger mood or even personality changes, as well as temporary confusion or even aggression. This can cause problems not only for the sufferer, but for their friends and loved ones as well.
Of course, prevailing in a negligence lawsuit cannot fix a TBI, but it may allow the sufferer to receive better treatment and obtain closure. Medical records can be the evidence that convinces a judge or jury that your injuries were caused by a negligent person – that plus other evidence may get you the monetary damages you deserve.
Contact An Orlando Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney
Sustaining a traumatic brain injury can change a person’s life. If you or a loved one has been so unlucky to develop one after a road accident, an Orlando traumatic brain injury attorney from the Hornsby Law Group can help you and your loved ones through the legal process. We are ready to help – contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
