The human brain is an important organ in the human body—and, unfortunately, also one of the most vulnerable. The brain controls thoughts, actions, and movements, so when a person sustains a traumatic brain injury in an accident, the impact can be devastating. You may experience anything from headaches and dizziness to paralysis, memory loss, and even a change in personality.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
The CDC defines a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as “disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury.” Anyone can be at risk of a traumatic brain injury, although the most vulnerable are children and the elderly, whose brains are more susceptible to damage from external trauma.
When a person suffers a traumatic brain injury, it can lead to severe cognitive impairment and even paralysis. Depending on which part of the brain is injured, a person may lose the ability to speak, suffer minor to severe memory loss, or experience a dramatic change in personality or emotional stability. In particularly severe cases, victims may become paralyzed and lose the ability to control one or more body parts.
A person can sustain such an injury in several ways. However, if another person causes a TBI through their own intentional or reckless actions, they should be held responsible. Doing so can sometimes be a tricky prospect, though, so it is usually important to have help from an experienced Allen traumatic brain injury attorney.