Brain injuries can result from any accident that causes severe trauma to the head. These types of head injuries, often referred to as a traumatic brain injury (TBI) depending on the severity, typically result in physiological changes to the brain. The impacts can be devastating, so it is important to seek medical attention and receive proper medical care following an accident involving trauma to the head. Below are some common questions regarding brain injuries.
How do I know if I have a brain injury?
Brain injuries can occur absent of any visual indicators, so it is important to be aware of any potential symptoms. Common symptoms that indicate a brain injury include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe head pain, numbness or headaches
- Dizziness and nausea
- Confusion and loss of memory
- Unusual weakness and fatigue
- Change in sleep patterns and eating habits
Some brain injuries don’t show symptoms immediately following an accident, so it is still wise to seek medical attention in case injuries are present. A medical professional will be able to properly diagnose a brain injury.
How much will a brain injury cost me?
Brain injuries are among the most excruciating injuries to the victim’s health, well-being and finances. The costs associated with a brain injury often depend on the severity of the injury. Mild to moderate brain injuries can cost anywhere several thousand dollars to $1 million. In severe brain injury cases that require long-term treatment, costs average $3 million through the course of the victim’s remaining life. Some of the costs associated with brain injuries include:
- Emergency transportation and care
- Surgery and procedures
- Therapy and rehabilitation
- Medication
- At-home or in-patient care
- Long-term treatment
- Follow-up appointments
How can I pay for a brain injury?
The average person does not have thousands or millions of dollars, but regardless, treatment for brain injuries is still necessary. Health insurance may cover some of the costs associated with a brain injury depending on the terms of the policy. Insurance, however, is often not enough. Some common options for covering brain injury costs, depending on the nature of the accident, include:
- Health insurance
- Auto insurance
- Workers Compensation
- Personal injury claim or lawsuit
- Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs
- Loans or credit
- Negotiating a payment plan and/or reduction with the healthcare provider
What if someone else is at fault for the brain injury?
If someone else is at fault for the accident that caused the brain injury, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages. These damages may include:
- Medical bills and costs
- Therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of income
- Future treatment
If you are considering taking legal action, you will usually make a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault party. First, however, it is vital to your case that you hire a brain injury lawyer such as the personal injury lawyer miami fl locals trust. They will review the case and determine your best options. An experienced lawyer can help you build a strong case and improve your chances of winning a fair settlement.
Thanks to authors at Law Offices of Needle & Ellenberg, P.A. for insight into