Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are life-altering events. They can affect many aspects of a person’s life, including their behavior and personality. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to recover compensation for these changes.
How TBIs can affect behavior and personality
TBIs are often caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head, leading to damage within the brain. They can range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening injuries. The consequences of a TBI depend on the severity and location of the injury within the brain.
Changes may include:
- Emotional and behavioral: Many individuals with TBIs become easily agitated and irritable, reacting strongly to minor stressors. Some may engage in impulsive behaviors, taking risks they wouldn’t have considered before the injury. Unexplained and rapid mood swings are also common, making it challenging to predict emotional responses.
- Social and interpersonal: TBIs can affect one’s ability to understand and relate to the emotions of others, leading to strained relationships. Some individuals may exhibit socially inappropriate actions, such as making insensitive comments or invading personal space.
- Cognitive: Many TBI survivors struggle with memory issues and difficulty concentrating, which can impact daily activities and responsibilities. In some cases, TBIs lower inhibitions, leading to the aforementioned impulsive and socially inappropriate actions.
- Personality: Changes in personality traits are not uncommon. Some individuals may become more apathetic, while others develop a narcissistic or egocentric disposition.
- Aggression and violence: A TBI can lead to increased aggression and even violent outbursts, which can pose a danger to both the individual and those around them.
How TBIs affect personal injury claims
When filing a personal injury claim for a TBI, behavioral and personality changes can be factored into your damages:
- Rehabilitation costs: TBI survivors often require extensive rehabilitation and therapy to relearn social and emotional skills, manage their behavior and adapt to personality changes.
- Loss of earnings: If the TBI affects your ability to work, your claim should account for the loss of earnings and potential future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Behavioral and personality changes can lead to significant emotional distress and strain on personal relationships.
- Medical expenses: You may need ongoing medical and psychiatric care to address the behavioral and emotional consequences of the TBI.
Navigating a personal injury claim involving a TBI can be complex. The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help assess the extent of the injury’s impact and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call an Ohio personal injury attorney today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your TBI personal injury claim. If you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at 800-556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.