Brain Injury FAQ:

What are the main types of brain injury?

There are actually two main types of brain injury, and within these two categories there are also different types and levels of brain injury. Traumatic brain injury occurs when the brain is damaged by an external force. In other words, the injury is not congenital or degenerative but is the result of an outside physical force such as an accident, a blow to the head, etc. Acquired brain injury is also not degenerative or congenital. This type of brain damage occurs at a cellular level, and although in some ways it can appear similar to a traumatic brain injury, this type of brain injury can often be more debilitating depending on the severity.

What causes a brain injury?

The type of force that can cause traumatic brain injury is one that causes the brain to move inside the skull or one that damages the skull to the extent that it then damages the brain. Some of the circumstances under which this type of injury can occur include motor vehicle accidents, a direct blow to the head with a heavy instrument, sports injuries, slip and fall accidents, and physical violence.

Some of the causes of acquired brain injury include starvation of oxygen to the brain and lack of blood flow to the brain. Some of the circumstances under which one might suffer an acquired brain injury include:

• Near drowning, choking, or strangulation
• Electric shock
• Obstruction of airways
• Vascular problems
• Strokes or heart attacks
• Infectious disease
• Toxic exposure
• Through the abuse of illegal drugs

Are there different levels of brain injury?

Yes. The level of brain injury can vary with both traumatic and acquired brain injuries. A person may suffer a mild brain injury, which normally affect the person for a temporary period, and can cause symptoms such as confusion, headaches, memory problems, nausea, sickness, depression, and emotional problems.

A person may suffer moderate brain injury, where symptoms can last longer and the effects can be more profound. However, patients can still make a good recovery for this level of injury in many cases.

Finally, the victim could sustain a serious brain injury. This can lead to life-changing and debilitating problems. Some of the situations that would come under a serious brain injury include: a coma, a vegetative state, a minimally responsive state, akinetic mutism, locked in syndrome, and brain death.

What would be classed as a serious brain injury?

A severe brain injury is where unconsciousness or coma lasts for a longer period, such as days, weeks, or months. There are various states that come under the umbrella of a serious brain injury. These include: coma, vegetative state, persistent vegetative state, minimally responsive state, akinetic mutism, locked in syndrome, and brain death.

Can I claim compensation if I have suffered a brain injury?

You may be entitled to compensation depending on the circumstances. You should make an appointment to see a specialist brain injury lawyer as soon as possible, as he or she will be able to offer sound advice on your eligibility and can advise you on your best course of action.

Can I file a lawsuit on behalf of a loved on that has suffered brain injury and is now incapacitated or has passed away due to the brain injury?

Again, this can depend upon the circumstances. You should seek immediate legal assistance from an experienced and specialist lawyer within the brain injury litigation field. He or she will be able to gather all of the facts and advise whether you have a case.

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