Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are invisible wounds that can cause life-altering changes, such as cognitive impairment.
A severe TBI could make returning to work challenging, especially without workplace accommodations.
However, you don’t have to bear the burden of recovery alone. If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule your 100% free initial consultation.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is any brain injury caused by an external force.
Most traumatic brain injuries are caused by sudden and forceful bumps, jolts, and blows. Not all head injuries will result in a TBI, but they are often reported after car accidents, semi-truck crashes, and motorcycle collisions.
Signs of a Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries can trigger psychological symptoms and physical effects.
Some symptoms may appear immediately after an accident, while others may take days or weeks to develop. They include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness or problems with balance
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Loss of consciousness
- Memory or concentration problems
More severe TBIs can have more noticeable symptoms, including seizures and a sudden loss of coordination. Some symptoms may resolve with time and treatment; others may linger or worsen. Even if initial symptoms are subtle, a severe TBI can eventually take a long-term toll on accident victims’ quality of life.
The Long-Term Impact of a TBI
The term “traumatic brain injury” can be used to describe anything from a minor concussion to a diffuse axonal injury. For most accident victims, the road to recovery is dependent on the severity of their initial injury and the quality of their medical care.
However, researchers believe that even a lower-grade TBI can sometimes have a long-term impact. A significant percentage of accident victims who are diagnosed with concussions experience symptoms that last for months or years. These symptoms can range from recurring sleep disturbances to life-altering cognitive impairment.
How a Traumatic Brain Injury Could Impact Your Life, Career, and Earning Potential
Traumatic brain injuries often require taking time away from work.
According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, making the decision to return to work is different for everyone. It usually requires careful consideration of factors like:
- The severity of your injury and symptoms
- How your TBI could impact your ability to perform workplace tasks
- The types of symptoms that you’re experiencing
- The workplace accommodations available to you
In general, traumatic brain injuries can make it dangerous to return to physically strenuous workplaces, especially if you’re expected to engage in demanding activities, drive long distances, or operate heavy machinery. Similarly, white collar professionals and office workers may struggle with cognitive tasks requiring complex thinking or abstract thought.
If you’re struggling to return to work, you may be able to request reasonable workplace accommodations from your employer.
Fighting for Your Rights After Sustaining a Traumatic Brain Injury
A traumatic brain injury can change the way you work, play, and navigate everyday life. It may be challenging to retail your independence if your symptoms are severe and compromise your career.
However, you don’t have to take on the challenge of recovery alone. If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you could be entitled to significant compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
Although damages vary, many accident victims receive damages for:
- Outstanding medical expenses
- Anticipated care needs
- Physical rehabilitation
- Mental health counseling
- Lost income from work
- Diminished earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
When a traumatic brain injury impacts your ability to work, The Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop can help you explore your legal options. We'll work with medical experts to document how your TBI affects your cognitive abilities and job performance, gather evidence to support your claim for lost wages and diminished earning capacity, and advocate for your right to receive the maximum compensation under the law. Our firm understands the unique challenges that TBI survivors face in the workplace, and we're committed to helping you secure the financial resources you need to support yourself and your family while you focus on recovery.