What Are Traumatic Brain Injuries?
What Are Traumatic Brain Injuries? The short answer is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is defined as a disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by a bump, blow, jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury (CDC). TBIs can range from mild (concussion) to severe, with varying degrees of physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects (Hopkins Medicine).
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries: Definition, Types, and Severity
Defining a Traumatic Brain Injury
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a Traumatic Brain Injury as a disruption in normal brain function resulting from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury. This disruption can be caused by the head suddenly and violently hitting an object or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue (NIH TBI).
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) echoes this, stating that a TBI refers to a brain injury caused by an outside force, such as a forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, or from an object entering the brain (NICHD). Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI.
When an external force leads to such an injury due to someone else’s negligence, it can form the basis of a personal injury claim.
Exploring Different Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
TBIs are broadly classified into:
- Closed (non-penetrating) injuries: Result from falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. The brain moves within the skull, potentially causing bruising, tissue tearing, and brain bleeding.
- Open (penetrating) injuries: Occur when an object pierces the skull, such as in bullet wounds. Damage is typically localized.
TBIs are also categorized by severity: mild (concussion), moderate, or severe. A concussion, though considered mild, can cause serious effects. These distinctions impact symptoms, treatment, and long-term consequences. They’re also critical in legal considerations, particularly in car accident or personal injury claims.
Understanding the Spectrum of Severity in Traumatic Brain Injuries
Severity is often assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), which scores motor response, verbal response, and eye-opening on a 15-point scale. Here’s a basic breakdown:
| Severity Level | GCS Score | Loss of Consciousness | Post-Traumatic Amnesia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild | 13–15 | < 30 minutes | 0–1 day |
| Moderate | 9–12 | 30 min – 24 hrs | 1–7 days |
| Severe | 3–8 | > 24 hours | > 7 days |
These medical metrics are crucial for injury classification and are often key evidence in personal injury claims.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
The Role of Car Accidents in Causing TBIs
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of TBIs, especially in young adults. The force from a car accident can cause the brain to violently move inside the skull, resulting in bruising, tearing, swelling, or diffuse axonal injury (DAI)—one of the most common and devastating types of TBI (NIH TBI).
If the car crash was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. It’s best to consult with a qualified car accident lawyer in Baltimore, Maryland to discuss your legal rights and potential claim.
Other Personal Injury Incidents Leading to TBIs
Besides car accidents, TBIs can occur in various personal injury contexts, including:
- Falls – the most common cause overall, particularly in children and the elderly
- Being struck by or against an object – common in sports and workplace accidents
- Assaults – including firearm-related injuries
- Blast injuries – common in military settings
If you or a loved one sustained a TBI due to someone else’s negligence in any of these situations, speak with a personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options.
TBI Statistics and Causes in Maryland
According to the Maryland Department of Health, the most common causes of traumatic brain injury in the state are firearms, falls, and car crashes. In 2020, there were 3,088 non-fatal TBI-related hospital admissions and 10,419 non-fatal emergency department visits in Maryland.
Males are 3.3 times more likely to die from TBI than females. Most of these injuries are unintentional, but suicide and homicide are also contributing factors (Maryland TBI Statistics).
If you’ve sustained a TBI in Maryland due to someone else’s negligence, a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms and Impact of TBIs
Immediate Symptoms
Symptoms of a mild TBI (concussion) can include:
- Headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision, fatigue, or speech issues
- Sensory symptoms like ringing in the ears, bad taste in the mouth, or loss of smell
- Memory or concentration problems, anxiety, mood changes
Moderate to severe TBI symptoms include:
- Prolonged unconsciousness, severe headache, repeated vomiting or seizures
- Slurred speech, weakness or numbness in limbs, dilated pupils
Children may show irritability, changes in feeding or sleeping patterns, and a loss of interest in toys.
Long-Term Symptoms
Long-term consequences of TBI can vary. Common issues include:
- Persistent headaches, sleep disturbances
- Cognitive challenges such as memory loss, poor concentration
- Depression, anxiety, personality changes
- Physical impairments like difficulty walking or speaking
Severe TBIs may result in long-term or permanent changes in consciousness, including coma or vegetative states. A comprehensive medical and legal approach is critical for long-term recovery and support.
The Diagnostic Process for Traumatic Brain Injuries
Initial Medical Evaluation
Diagnosis usually starts with a neurological examination. Doctors evaluate:
- Consciousness and mental status
- Pupil response, motor function, and coordination
- Signs of trauma or skull fractures
Imaging and Tests
- CT Scan – for quick emergency assessment
- MRI – for more detailed imaging
- Intracranial pressure monitoring – used in severe cases
- Blood tests – emerging tools for concussion detection
- Neuropsychological evaluations – to assess memory, attention, and cognition
These tests guide treatment and help document the severity for legal purposes.
Treatment and Rehabilitation Strategies for TBIs
Immediate Medical Treatment
Treatment depends on severity. For mild TBIs, rest and symptom management may be sufficient. For moderate to severe TBIs:
- Stabilization to ensure oxygen supply and manage pressure
- Medications such as diuretics, anti-seizure drugs, or coma-inducing drugs
- Surgery to remove blood clots, repair skull fractures, or relieve pressure
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Rehab may involve a team of specialists and can include:
- Physical therapy for motor function
- Occupational therapy for daily living skills
- Speech and language therapy
- Cognitive therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Vocational training
Duration and intensity depend on the individual’s needs and progress.
Long-Term Consequences and Challenges
Potential Long-Term Effects
Possible long-term effects include:
- Chronic headaches or pain
- Motor and sensory impairments
- Cognitive and memory issues
- Mood disorders, personality changes, and social difficulties
- Increased risk of epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s disease
Ongoing Support and Management
Effective long-term management may include:
- Regular medical checkups
- Continued rehabilitation
- Assistive devices and home modifications
- Caregiver support
- Legal and financial planning
A multidisciplinary approach improves outcomes and quality of life.
Seeking Help After a Traumatic Brain Injury
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to a car accident or personal injury in Maryland or Washington, D.C., seek medical attention immediately and consult with a lawyer.
A personal injury lawyer experienced in TBI cases can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and suffering.
Contact the Law Office of David Wasser
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve. Click here to call the Law Office of David Wasser today. Get your case evaluated and ensure you receive fair compensation.