Craig Rosenbaum | February 28, 2023 | Brain Injuries
Blunt force head trauma includes a long list of injuries and conditions that can develop after an impact to the head. These injuries can provoke long-lasting symptoms, and even a minor blow can cause the brain to swell, bleed, or bruise.
In the most serious cases, head trauma injuries can result in long-term physical and cognitive impairment and even death.
If you suffered a blunt force trauma injury due to someone’s negligence, you may be eligible to file a claim or lawsuit and hold them accountable.
Blunt Force Head Trauma Injuries Explained
Blunt force head trauma injuries can range from mild to severe, and symptoms vary depending on the location and seriousness of the damage.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, approximately 1.5 million traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur every year in the United States. The two leading causes of blunt force head trauma are slips and falls and traffic accidents.
The most common types of blunt force head trauma injuries include:
Concussions
Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries that happen when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull. Symptoms of a concussion include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and memory problems.
Skull Fractures
Just as legs and arms can break after a fall, in some cases, the skull plates can also suffer fractures. A cracked skull can result from blunt force trauma, especially when the head hits a solid object like the ground.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are a broad family of injuries, and the symptoms can vary significantly from case to case. Depending on their severity, TBIs can cause cognitive deficits, motor defects, paralysis, confusion, language deficits, and even sensory problems.
How Is Blunt Force Head Trauma Diagnosed?
Blunt force head trauma can be challenging to diagnose and may require a combination of physical exams, medical imaging, and tests. The diagnosis is typically made by a medical professional, namely, a neurologist who specializes in brain injuries.
Physical Exam
After an accident, a doctor will examine the head and neck for any signs of trauma. They will check for bruising, swelling, cuts, or other external signs of injury. They may also look for signs of a concussion, such as loss of consciousness, confusion, memory problems, or difficulty balancing.
Medical Imaging
Medical imaging techniques like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans may be used to visualize the internal structures of the head and brain. These imaging techniques can help identify fractures or damage to the skull or brain. They can also help determine the injury’s severity and potential long-term effects.
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic tests such as blood tests or neurological exams may be used to evaluate brain and nervous system functioning. These tests can help identify any neurological deficits, including problems with vision, hearing, speech, or motor function problems.
In some cases, additional tests or examinations may be required to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms, such as infection or stroke. The diagnostic process may also include monitoring the patient over time to assess the progression of the injury and the effectiveness of any treatment.
Proving Fault for a Blunt Force Head Trauma Injury in NYC
Proving fault in a head trauma personal injury claim can be challenging, as it typically requires establishing that the at-fault party was legally negligent in causing the injury.
To do so, several pieces of evidence may be necessary, such as:
- Police reports
- Expert testimony
- Witness testimony
- Physical evidence
- Photos and videos
- Medical records and documents
If you suffered blunt force head trauma due to someone else’s negligence, a dedicated New York City brain injury lawyer can compile evidence and build a strong case in your favor.
Contact Our Brain Injury Law Firm in New York City
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Manhattan, NY, and need legal help, contact our New York City brain injury lawyers at Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C. to schedule a free consultation.
Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C.
100 Wall St 15th Floor
New York, NY 10005
(212) 514-5007