Traumatic brain injury: an injury few can afford

There has been an increased awareness about traumatic brain injuries in the U.S., due in part to films like Concussion as well as more scientists voicing their concerns in the national debate surrounding this pervasive issue. Many Maryland residents have read about these injuries suffered by NFL players that have sometimes severely affected them for the rest of their lives. Many of these players can afford the often steep costs that recovery entails, but this cost can hinder or even prohibit a satisfactory outcome for others who have suffered a traumatic brain injury who are without access to the resources of professional athletes.

In fact, many of the U.S.’s 1.7 million people who sustain a traumatic brain injury every year are typically not in a situation to seek full treatment. Families are often greatly affected by the financial, emotional and physical stressors often associated with this kind of injury. In fact, it is estimated that the lifetime costs for the treatment of this kind of injury could run run anywhere from $85,000 to $3 million.

After this kind of injury, many individuals might able able to heal completely. Unfortunately, many others might be left living with a permanent disability that could prevent them from easily taking care of themselves on even a basic level — feeding or bathing themselves or even communicating. However, for those who are able to regain both their language and physical capacity, life can still be challenging. Over 5.3 million adults and children might end up living with a lifelong disability.

When Maryland residents suffer a traumatic brain injury due to another party’s negligence, they are typically entitled to file a personal injury claim for documented damages. Successfully navigated, a personal injury claim could bring about an award of damages that could be used as assistance during their physical, emotional and fiscal recovery. Individuals typically begin this process by first consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer in order to establish the validity of their claim.

Source: nextavenue.org, “The cost of recovering from brain injury”, Chandi Edmonds, Dec. 28, 2015