Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) occur when a sudden impact causes the brain to dysfunction. This can result from a bump, blow, jolt to the head, or a penetrating injury. On the other hand, spinal cord injuries can be classified as either complete or incomplete. Complete injuries often lead to conditions like paraplegia or tetraplegia, whereas incomplete injuries result in partial damage, affecting motor and sensory functions to varying degrees. The severity of a spinal cord injury is categorized based on the affected area, from cervical to sacral regions.

The key difference between brain injuries and spinal cord injuries lies in their impact. Brain injuries disrupt the brain’s ability to function, leading to complications that can affect memory, motor skills, and even personality. In contrast, spinal cord injuries directly impact mobility and bodily functions, often resulting in paralysis or loss of sensation in affected areas. Both types of injuries require immediate medical intervention and long-term rehabilitation to manage their extensive effects on the body.

ROSSETTI & DEVOTO, P.C. is a law firm experienced in representing persons with traumatic brain injuries. Mr. DeVoto was elected and served on the Board of Trustees of Bancroft NeuroHealth (a prestigious brain injury school located in Haddonfield, New Jersey) as well as Bancroft Brain Injury Services Corp. (Bancroft’s brain injury rehabilitation center).

ROSSETTI & DEVOTO, P.C. works with some of the top neurologists, neuropsychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and vocational rehabilitation experts in the world. We understand the medicine as well as the treatment and rehabilitation needed to allow brain-injured persons to return to our community and be effective and contributing members. If you’ve had the misfortune to have sustained a traumatic brain injury, speak with our traumatic brain injury lawyer today at 856-475-8261 or submit the contact form for a free case evaluation.

Prevalence and Impact of Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

The prevalence of brain and spinal cord injuries is alarmingly high. Each year, more than 1.5 million Americans sustain a traumatic brain injury, with over 50,000 of these cases resulting in death and 80,000 leading to long-term disabilities. In New Jersey alone, approximately 175,000 residents live with disabilities caused by traumatic brain injuries. Similarly, spinal cord injuries are reported at a rate of approximately 11,000 new cases annually in the United States.

The impact of these injuries extends far beyond the immediate physical damage. Brain injury victims often face significant changes in their memory, motor functions, and personalities. Spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent loss of movement, sensation, and various bodily functions. Long-term complications include chronic pain, respiratory issues, and deep vein thrombosis. The socioeconomic impact is also profound, with victims often facing high medical costs and reduced employment opportunities, which can severely affect their quality of life.

Moreover, the burden on the healthcare system is substantial. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the need for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation for these injury victims, which places a significant strain on healthcare resources. Understanding the prevalence and impact of these injuries underscores the importance of preventive measures and effective legal support to ensure victims receive the care and compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

Auto and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for nearly half of all new cases each year. Brain injuries are similarly caused by traumatic events, with motor vehicle accidents being a significant contributor. For young and middle-aged Americans, especially those aged 16-24, car accidents and falls are the most common causes of brain injuries.

Falls are particularly prevalent among older adults, often leading to severe spinal cord injuries. Sports and recreational activities, such as diving into shallow water, account for about 10% of spinal cord injuries. Workplace accidents also contribute significantly to these injuries, with sudden forceful impacts causing traumatic brain injuries.

Violent encounters, including gunshot wounds and knife attacks, contribute to about 12% of spinal cord injuries. Understanding these common causes can help in implementing preventive measures and legal claims for maximum compensation.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Timely medical intervention hinges on the ability to recognize the symptoms of brain and spinal cord injuries. Common symptoms of traumatic brain injuries include:

• Persistent headaches
• Dizziness
• Vision problems
• Balance deficits
• Speech issues
• Vomiting
• Trouble sleeping

These traumatic brain injuries are often referred to as “silent injuries” because their symptoms might not be immediately apparent, leaving the person seemingly healthy while suffering debilitating effects.

For spinal cord injuries, symptoms can range from partial or complete loss of sensory function or motor control in limbs to severe cases affecting bladder and bowel control. Accurate diagnosis, which typically involves physical examinations, imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans, and neurological assessments, is of paramount importance. Regular monitoring and documentation of symptoms can help manage these injuries over time and provide critical evidence for legal claims.

Legal Rights of Injury Victims

Brain injury victims in New Jersey can pursue compensation if their injury resulted from medical errors, dangerous drugs, or other negligent actions. Establishing a solid personal injury claim requires physical evidence, medical documentation, and expert testimony to support the victim’s case. A skilled brain injury attorney can help to identify the responsible parties and gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case.

Navigating the complexities of such cases requires the expertise of a New Jersey brain injury lawyer. They begin by thoroughly understanding the victim’s situation and asking detailed questions to prepare the case. The value of a traumatic brain injury claim can vary significantly depending on the circumstances, and expert legal advice is essential in ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

We at ROSSETTI & DEVOTO, P.C., renowned for our expertise in spinal cord and brain injury cases, can provide the necessary support and guidance.

Financial Compensation and Benefits

Various forms of financial compensation are often due to victims of brain and spinal cord injuries. This can include:

• Medical expenses for hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatments
• Compensation for lost wages due to the inability to work during recovery
• Pain and suffering, accounting for both physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury

These factors are considered in the compensation for brain and spinal cord injuries.

Insurance companies play a crucial role in the compensation process. They often negotiate settlements or provide payouts according to the victim’s policy terms. To maximize compensation, it is essential to thoroughly document the injury, medical treatments, and long-term impacts on the victim’s quality of life.

Legal guidance can be invaluable in navigating these complexities and ensuring that victims receive the full benefits they are entitled to. Personal injury lawyers specialize in this area and can provide the necessary expertise to advocate for victims’ rights effectively.

The Role of Medical Experts in Personal Injury Cases

In personal injury cases involving brain and spinal cord injuries, medical experts play a key role. They provide key evidence explaining the extent of the injury and its impact on the victim’s life. Their evaluations can significantly influence the outcome of a personal injury claim, providing persuasive testimony that can sway judges and juries.

Experts can also provide detailed estimates of financial damages, including future medical expenses and lost wages, ensuring that the compensation aligns with the victim’s long-term needs. Their testimony helps clarify the long-term impact of the injuries, which is critical in cases involving traumatic brain injuries.