Proper Concussion Care Supports Your Health and Your Rights

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) continues to be a primary cause of unintentional death and disability among Americans, and statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal a concerning trend. From 2006 to 2014, the number of people treated in emergency rooms for head injuries increased by 53 percent. Every year, TBI contributes to the deaths of almost 57,000 individuals, while another 288,000 patients are hospitalized because of head trauma from accidents.

Despite these shocking figures, there is some good news: The majority of these head injuries result in concussion, which can be mild and lead to a full recovery with proper care. Getting appropriate medical treatment is a critical first step, followed by rest and at-home precautions as recommended by your doctor. Your Oakland traumatic brain injury attorney can explain how proper concussion care affects your legal rights, but an overview may also be helpful.

Common Causes of Concussion

From a medical standpoint, a concussion is a type of TBI that is caused by a blow to the head. The tough bone material of the skull is effective at preventing injury to the brain, but it is also rock-hard when the head is jolted so violently that the brain strikes the skull. This trauma may disrupt the normal function of the brain, leading to TBI.

From a legal standpoint, concussion is usually the result of accidents caused by negligence. You may have a claim for monetary damages if you were hurt due to:

• A car, truck, or motorcycle crash
• A pedestrian, bicycle, or scooter collision
• A slip and fall or other accident that occurs because of dangerous conditions on property
• Medical errors and malpractice
• A construction or other workplace accident 

Why Proper Medical Care is Critical for Concussion

Whenever an accident leads to head trauma, you should always seek treatment immediately – even for mild symptoms. A health care provider needs to assess the extent of the damage to determine the severity of the TBI and the level of care you need. Without a diagnosis and treatment, you could suffer permanent harm.

In addition, getting medical attention after a concussion is important for your legal rights. Delays or refusal to visit a doctor sends a message: You were not hurt that badly, otherwise you would have sought treatment right away. The insurance company will be the message recipient when you file a claim, and you can be sure the adjuster will use this information to deny payment. If you go to court, the jury may not look favorably on the fact that you did not get proper care for a concussion..

An Oakland Personal Injury Lawyer Can Explain Your Options 

While you are following doctor’s orders and recuperating at home after a concussion, you can trust our team at Venardi Zurada, LLP to be busy working to get the compensation you deserve as the victim of an accident. Please contact our firm today to set up a free case evaluation at our offices. Once we assess your circumstances, we can advise you on the legal process.

Resource:

cdc.gov/headsup/pdfs/providers/facts_about_concussion_tbi-a.pdf