Understanding Traumatic and Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

As the control center of the body, the brain is integral to a host of essential functions, including information processing, memory, speech, emotions, and even breathing. Any injury to the brain can have catastrophic results, affecting a person’s ability to perform daily tasks, earn a living, care for themselves, and relate to others.

When most people hear the term brain injury, they think of a traumatic brain injury. But this is just one of two types of brain injuries. Brain injuries can result from causes other than trauma, including lack of oxygen and toxic chemicals.

At Hare, Wynn, Newell, & Newton, we are experienced in representing clients with traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries. Our Birmingham brain injury lawyers can assess your case to determine if you have grounds for a legal claim and identify liable parties.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A TBI is caused by a trauma to the head (head injury) that disrupts normal brain function. TBIs are classified as mild, moderate or severe. Even a “mild” brain injury requires immediate medical attention.

Common causes of traumatic brain injuries include:

• Falls
• Auto accidents
• Sports-related injuries
• Assaults
• Workplace accidents

An assault is an intentional wrongful action, so the victim would have grounds to file a claim. You can also file a lawsuit if your TBI was the result of another party’s negligence, such as in the following examples:

• You suffered a TBI in a slip and fall accident because a property owner failed to fix a safety risk or warn you of it.
• You were in a car, truck,or motorcycle accident caused by a driver’s carelessness or recklessness.
• You or your child sustained a concussion because a recreational facility or sports team didn’t adhere to safety guidelines.
• Your company didn’t follow proper safety measures, and you were hurt in a construction accident as a result.

Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

Non-traumatic brain injuries can have a variety of causes. The brain can suffer an injury when its supply of oxygen is significantly reduced (hypoxia) or completely cut off (anoxia). When the brain does not have enough oxygen, it cannot carry out essential functions and brain cells will begin to die after about 4 or 5 minutes, causing irreversible brain damage.

Strokes, viral infections, and exposure to toxic substances can also cause brain injury.

There are several scenarios where a brain injury can be the result of medical malpractice, such as:

• Delay in ordering a c-section leading to a baby’s brain injury from reduced oxygen
• Negligence in not diagnosing infections or other conditions that can cause brain injury
• Medication errors or overdoses
• Anesthesia negligence
• Failure to secure airway

Proving liability in a medical malpractice case can be difficult. Special laws govern medical malpractice claims, many of which are designed to make it very difficult for patients and their families to make any type of recovery.

At Hare, Wynn, Newell, & Newton, we have the experience and resources to handle these complex cases. We are also the ideal firm to call if your brain injury was caused by a toxic substance or a dangerous drug or product.

We have won millions for clients in complex litigation against powerful pharmaceutical companies. Our firm also has decades-long relationships and contact with a number of expert witnesses and investigators, as well as in-depth knowledge in a multitude of relevant areas, including but not limited to pharmacology, toxicology, chemistry and medicine.

Seeking Compensation

Brain injuries can result in severe financial hardship and pain and suffering. The costs of treating a brain injury can reach into hundreds of thousands of dollars or millions depending on the severity of the injury.

You may pursue compensation for damages, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Permanent disability and disfigurement
• Pain and suffering

At Hare Wynn, we prepare every case for trial. We know that aggressive representation from a skilled lawyer gives you the best possible chance of securing compensation for your injury.

There are times when a brain injury leads to death. In those cases a wrongful death case can be filed and our lawyers will pursue punitive damages on your behalf.

Contact Our Birmingham Brain Injury Lawyers

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in Alabama because of someone else’s negligence, carelessness, or intentional actions, our team at Hare, Wynn, Newell & Newton, LLP would like to hear about your case.

We are nationally recognized for our track record of exceptional results and a long history of serving people with integrity and skill. We work tirelessly to help clients receive the compensation they deserve.

You can schedule a free initial consultation by calling 800-568-5330 or using our online contact form.