Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) represent some of the most serious and devastating injuries that a person can sustain. TBIs are a major public health problem in Illinois, affecting thousands of people every year. These injuries can come from things like car accidents, slipping and falling, athletic injuries, or even acts of violence. For victims and families that are left behind, knowing the long-term impact TBIs have and the legal options they have within the state of Illinois can provide an avenue to justice and compensation. In this blog post, learn more about the impact of brain injuries and legal options

What Are Traumatic Brain Injuries?

But functional brain damage due to an external force–we call that a TBI–traumatic brain injury. They can be mild (concussions) or severe and may have long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional consequences.

The Life-Long Impact of TBI

TBIs can have a myriad of long-term effects and depend on the extent of damage to the area of the brain impacted. Some of the more common long-term effects include:

Cognitive Impairments

• Memory impairment: Trouble in remembering both new things and memories
• Concentration Issues: Inability to focus on tasks
• Difficulties with Executive Functioning: Planning, problem-solving, decision-making and more

Physical Impairments

• Chronic Pain: Headaches or even migraine headaches.
• Coordination: Coordination, balance, and motor functioning are impaired.
• Epileptic: Higher chances of getting epilepsy or convulsions

Changes in Behaviour

• Mood Swings: Mood changes that are quick and unpredictable.
• Depression and Anxiety: Greater vulnerability to psychiatric disorders
• Personality changes: Changes in behavior and personality character, including aggression or impulsiveness.

Sensory Impairments

• Vision and Hearing: Problems with vision or at least trouble tolerating visual and/or auditory stimuli.
• Taste and Smell: Also changes or loss in the ability to smell or taste.

Ways to Seek Help if You Have Suffered a TBI in Illinois

Seeking compensation for a TBI in Illinois Victims of TBIs in Illinois have a few different legal options depending on the circumstances surrounding their injury. To get a successful result, it is important to know these options and the steps you need to take.

1. Personal Injury Claims: Victims can pursue a personal injury claim if their TBI is caused by the negligence of others. Typical examples involve auto accidents, slips and falls, and work-related tools.

2. Workers’ Compensation: If the TBI is sustained on the job, the injured individual could have a right to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation in Illinois pays for medical care along with wage replacement, and disability benefits. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning that negligence is not something that needs to be proved – unlike in personal injury claims.

3. Product Liability Claims: For example, if a defective product, such as a helmet or other component of a vehicle, causes the TBI, the victim may be able to bring a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of the product.

Actions to Take After a TBI

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are crucial to mitigate the long-term effects of a TBI.
• Document Everything: Document medical treatments & expenses & how the injury affects your day-to-day life. Having this documentation will be extremely important for your legal case.
• Contact A Personal Injury Lawyer: An attorney knows the ins and outs of the legal, gathers evidence, and fights for your rights. If you’re interested in an Illinois case, for example, you will need to speak with an attorney who is familiar with state-specific laws and regulations.

Traumatic Brain Injury changes the lives of victims and the people who love and care for them. In Illinois, there are various legal paths available for victims to recover compensation and justice for their injuries. The harsh reality is that TBIs have such a significant impact, and understanding this long-term effect and the legal options available to men and women and their families is an essential step in moving forward and gaining justice.