Falls are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and it should come as no surprise that this is a common injury you could suffer in a slip and fall accident. You need to know the warning signs that could develop in the days and weeks after your fall so that you obtain the medical treatment you need and protect your right to compensation for your injuries from the negligent property owner or business that caused you to slip and fall.
Why Slip and Fall Accidents Cause So Many Traumatic Brain Injuries
A traumatic brain injury can be caused in two ways. One way is when there is a violent jolt to the head. Unfortunately, this is precisely what can happen to a victim when they slip and fall and hit their head on a hard surface. As a result, they can suffer injuries to multiple areas of the brain. Another way that a TBI can occur is when an object penetrates the skull and brain. This can cause brain damage to the area of the brain that was punctured.
Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury
Unlike some other injuries caused in a fall, you may not realize that you suffered a TBI until days or longer after your slip and fall accident. However, this doesn’t mean that your injury is minor. You could suffer devasting changes to your mobility, vision, and cognitive abilities for the rest of your life. Common symptoms you may experience include:
- Persistent headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty sleeping—either insomnia or sleeping too much
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness
- Loss of balance
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Depression and anxiety
If the TBI is more serious, you could suffer the above symptoms and more serious ones, such as:
- Loss of consciousness for a few moments or hours
- Convulsions
- Seizures
- Loss of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Increasing agitation or combative behaviors
- Extreme confusion
- Coma
How to Protect Your Rights If You Suffered a TBI in a Fall
If you suffered a traumatic brain injury in a slip and fall accident, you need to obtain immediate medical treatment to protect your health and chances of receiving any compensation. In addition, you should retain an experienced premises liability attorney as soon as possible to file your claim with the negligent party’s insurance company and to fight for the compensation you deserve under Virginia law. To learn how we can assist you, call our Norfolk office to schedule a free consultation today.
|
Related Links: |