Traumatic brain injury accidents are full of unique challenges and complications. No two cases are the same. But there are some questions that many of Christensen Law clients face. Here are some basic answers to some of those frequently asked questions.
Traumatic Brain Injury
How do I know if I suffered a traumatic brain injury?
The key to successful recovery from a traumatic brain injury is early detection. After a collision – whether a car accident or a hard football hit – keep an eye on out for these TBI symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Changes in the senses of taste and smell
- Slow cognition, inability to process information quickly
- Short-term memory interruption
- Language problem
- Inability to focus and concentrate
- Easy distraction
I’ve suffered a traumatic brain injury. What should I do?
Prompt medical treatment is crucial in even a mild traumatic brain injury case. Any time you have a head injury, you should have a TBI screening by your doctor right away. Even a mild concussion can cause significant secondary injuries. Swelling, pressure, and blood flow problems can cause additional damage and make your recovery much longer. Early detection is key to minimizing secondary injuries and disabling conditions.
Will my insurance cover my traumatic brain injury?
Which insurance applies to your traumatic brain injury depends on what caused the harm. TBI can be caused by falls, assaults, sport injuries, or auto accidents. In the first three cases, you will have to use your standard health insurance to cover your injuries. You will still have to face deductibles, copays, and co-insurance. Even then your lifetime health insurance benefits have caps. Once you hit those, you won’t see any more money.
If your TBI was caused by an auto accident, Michigan law makes sure your medical expenses will be covered for life. You can also be compensated for up to three years of lost wages and attendant care costs.
What if I am permanently disabled?
You can’t always recover from a traumatic brain injury. Sometimes, concussions result in permanent disabilities. If your TBI is the result of an auto accident, your long-term treatments will be covered by your no-fault auto insurance. But permanent disability and the loss of support or other challenges could take more than an insurance claim. You may have to file a Third Party or negligence lawsuit to collect those non-economic damages from the person who caused your injury.
What should I expect from the insurance company?
When you file a brain injury claim with your auto insurance company, expect a fight. You will likely face claims that the injury isn’t related to the accident and the treatment isn’t reasonably and necessary. You and your brain injury attorneys will have to present physicians and experts to explain your injury and justify your treatment. Your medical providers may also have to show their costs are appropriate.
