Coup-contrecoup brain injuries occur on two sides of the brain: the point of impact (coup), and the opposite side of the head (contrecoup). They result in bruising of the brain, and may include other side effects. However, the impact doesn’t penetrate the head, unlike some other types of brain injury. These injuries are common in vehicle rollover and motorcycle accidents.
Unfortunately, coup-contrecoup brain injuries are often misdiagnosed. Doctors may see the injury at the impact site, but fail to see the issues on the other side of the brain.
If your doctor failed to properly diagnose your brain injury, causing you additional suffering, you may be able to file a malpractice claim.
Why are coup-contrecoup injuries so serious?
Coup-contrecoup injuries not only affect both sides of the brain, but since they’re prone to misdiagnosis, you may not realize that you need additional care. This presents a long-term risk for patients, including permanent brain damage.
Additional symptoms may include hematomas and damage to the frontal and temporal lobes. This can affect your speech, decision-making, memory, concentration, sensory input, balance, muscle weakness, paralysis and ability to concentrate. In short, a serious coup-contrecoup injury could completely change your life as you know it.
If you suffer a head injury, resist the urge to “walk it off” and keep going with your activity. Get checked out at a hospital immediately. Brain injuries are like strokes: every minute counts. The longer you wait for treatment, the more likely it is that you’ll suffer permanent damage.
Damages for coup-contrecoup brain injuries
If your brain injury was caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you may be able to recover damages. Economic damages may cover everything from your initial medical bills to the ongoing treatment you’ll likely need over the rest of your life. If you require medication, physical or occupational therapy and mental health treatment, you deserve to have those costs covered. Economic damages also include medical equipment, lost wages from being unable to work and more.
You may also be eligible for noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life and other applicable situations. Since brain injuries can completely alter your quality of life, noneconomic damages can help make up for this terrible new condition.
Once you’ve received medical care and your condition is stable, call a personal injury attorney. They’ll help fight for the damages you deserve.
Get help from an Ohio personal injury lawyer today
Have you suffered a brain injury as a result of someone else’s negligence or recklessness? I’ll Make Them Pay!® We’ll work together to hold them responsible for your injuries, so you don’t have to bear those costs alone. Call me today at 877.483.2298 for a consultation.