Bloomington Brain Injury Attorney

Sustained a Brain Injury Caused by a Negligent Party?

A brain injury can change a person’s life in an instant. From severe headaches and memory loss to permanent cognitive or physical disabilities, the effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be devastating — not only for the injured individual but for their entire family. If someone else’s carelessness caused your injury, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial and emotional burden alone.

At Haxel Law, our Bloomington brain injury lawyers represent victims and their families in complex personal injury cases. We understand the immense physical, emotional, and financial challenges you may be facing and are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.

Call (217) 215-4166 for a complimentary, no-pressure consultation.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden blow, jolt, or penetrating injury disrupts the brain’s normal function. TBIs can range from mild concussions that heal with rest to severe injuries that cause lifelong impairment. Even a seemingly minor head injury can lead to long-term complications if not properly diagnosed and treated.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs are a major cause of disability and death in the United States, contributing to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations each year. Many of these injuries are preventable and occur due to someone’s negligence — such as in a car crash, workplace accident, or slip and fall.

If you or a loved one sustained a brain injury caused by another’s carelessness or misconduct, our Bloomington brain injury attorneys can help you pursue justice and financial recovery.

Common Types of TBI

Not all brain injuries are the same. The severity and type of injury can affect both the symptoms and recovery time. The most common types of traumatic brain injuries include:

Concussion

A concussion is a mild form of TBI typically caused by a bump or jolt to the head. Although often labeled “mild,” concussions can result in serious symptoms, including headaches, confusion, dizziness, and memory problems.

Contusion

A contusion is a bruise on the brain tissue resulting from a direct impact to the head. Larger contusions may require surgical removal if bleeding or swelling occurs.

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI)

This severe form of injury happens when the brain rapidly shifts inside the skull, tearing nerve fibers. DAI often occurs in high-impact accidents, such as car crashes, and can result in coma or permanent disability.

Penetrating Brain Injury

This occurs when an object, such as a bullet or shard of metal, penetrates the skull and damages brain tissue. These injuries are often catastrophic and require immediate medical and surgical intervention.

Coup-Contrecoup Injury

This type of TBI happens when the force of an impact causes the brain to strike the opposite side of the skull, resulting in injury at both the point of impact and the opposite side.

Common Causes of TBI

Traumatic brain injuries can result from a wide variety of accidents and incidents. Some of the most common causes include:

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, motorcycle, and bicycle crashes are leading causes of TBIs.
• Falls: Slip and fall accidents, especially among older adults or workers at construction sites, frequently lead to serious head trauma.
• Sports Injuries: Contact sports such as football, boxing, or hockey can cause repeated concussions or severe brain injuries.
• Workplace Accidents: Falls from heights, equipment malfunctions, or explosions can cause TBIs in dangerous work environments.
• Violence or Assault: Physical assaults, gunshot wounds, or shaken baby syndrome can also result in traumatic brain injuries.
• Medical Negligence: Surgical errors, anesthesia mistakes, or failure to diagnose can lead to oxygen deprivation and subsequent brain damage.

If your injury was caused by someone else’s reckless or negligent actions, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim. Our Bloomington brain injury lawyer at Haxel Law can investigate your case, gather evidence, and pursue the maximum compensation available.

Brain Injury Symptoms

The symptoms of a brain injury can vary depending on the severity and area of the brain affected. Some appear immediately, while others develop over time. Common symptoms include:

Physical Symptoms

• Persistent headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Fatigue or drowsiness

Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms

• Memory loss or confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood swings or irritability
• Depression or anxiety
• Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping

Severe Symptoms

• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures or convulsions
• Slurred speech
• Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
• Weakness or numbness in limbs

If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in recovery.