Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are damage caused by an external force or sudden jolt that causes your brain to strike your skull. A forceful jolt or flying object may penetrate your skull, causing severe damage that significantly impacts your brain function.

When such injuries occur due to someone else’s negligence, you may seek compensation from the responsible party with the aid of a catastrophic injury attorney. Contact a skilled Worcester traumatic brain injury lawyer at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan, & Blakesley, P.C. to schedule a case evaluation.

The Two Types of TBIs

Brain damage and associated injuries can be mild (such as a concussion), severe (causing permanent life-altering disabilities), or anything in between. Some injuries may heal on their own, while others do not. Although there are treatments that can help, there are currently no treatments that can fully heal severe brain damage. This is why it is important to hire an attorney as soon as possible after sustaining a traumatic brain injury.

Closed-Head TBIs

Closed-head, or non-penetrating, TBIs are brain injuries that happen without an object penetrating your skull. They occur from a sudden bump, blow, or impact that causes your head to move back and forward rapidly, causing your brain to strike the inside of your skull. This can cause bruising, tearing, swelling, and severe damage to your brain, sensitive tissues, and vulnerable blood vessels.

Penetrating TBIs

Penetrating TBIs happen when a powerful external force breaks through your head and skull, harming your brain tissue. Flying objects, such as those from car crashes or from bullets or shrapnel, can pierce your skull and enter the brain and tissue beneath. These injuries typically affect only that portion of the brain where the damage occurs.

The lawyers at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan, & Blakesley, P.C. have extensive experience handling both types of traumatic brain injury cases and are committed to fighting for the justice that victims in Worcester deserve.

What Are the Leading Causes of TBIs?

Traumatic brain injuries can result from a variety of incidents that cause sudden trauma to the head. Some examples of the leading causes of closed-head and penetrating TBIs include the following:

  • Motor vehicle crashes of all types
  • Falls from heights, or slips and trips that cause a person to hit the floor or other objects
  • Violent attacks, such as assault from domestic violence or child abuse, or gunshot and stab wounds
  • Explosions and blasts, which can cause severe and often life-threatening injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
  • Falling objects at work, such as construction zones or warehouses, or other places open to the public, such as grocery stores
  • Bicycle and pedestrian accidents, as the victim’s body and head are highly vulnerable when vehicles strike them or when they hit the ground

A Worcester traumatic brain injury attorney could review the details of an accident and help determine the most effective method for achieving the best outcome.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries

Support and guidance are crucial after suffering a brain injury. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health views TBIs as a severe public health issue and aims to provide vital information to the public and those living with such debilitating injuries.

TBIs, whether closed-head or penetrating, can cause a vast range of symptoms that can vary in severity. The specific area of the brain affected and the extent of the damage determine which symptoms develop. It is also essential to note that the signs of TBI may appear immediately, or they may develop hours to weeks later.

Physical symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and nausea, while cognitive signs can include confusion, grogginess, or difficulty with thinking or remembering things. There may also be changes in emotions and behavior, such as drastic mood swings. Severe head and brain injuries carry a severe risk of permanent disabilities and death. A seasoned traumatic brain injury lawyer in Worcester could help you access medical treatment and guide you throughout the claims process.

Call a Skilled Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney in Worcester Today

If you suffered severe harm, such as a TBI, because of the negligence of another person or organization, you should hold them accountable. While there is no medical cure for TBIs, advanced medical technology and therapy can significantly increase your brain function and improve your life and overall well-being.

A hard-working and knowledgeable Worcester traumatic brain injury lawyer could provide support and help you throughout the process, fighting for the justice you deserve. Contact us today for more information and to schedule a consultation.