There are two primary categories of brain injuries. Both can have permanent and devastating affects, and they can even lead to death.

When there is an external blow to the head, traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result. These injuries are sometimes also referred to as “closed head injuries.”  A few of the common causes of TBIs are: auto accidents; explosions; defective product accidents; firearm accidents; premises liability accidents; and on-the-job accidents. 

There are three levels of TBIs: mild, moderate, and severe. A mild traumatic brain injury is a brief loss of consciousness with little or no consequences. A moderate traumatic brain injury involves loss of consciousness that lasts from a few minutes to a few hours, with the resulting impairment of motor skills ranging from several weeks to permanent. A severe traumatic brain injury is characterized by an extended unconscious state or coma (this may range from days to years) and significant impairment.

When an injury to the brain occurs from a disruption in oxygen flow, it is referred to as an acquired brain injury (ABI). ABIs often result from: stroke; aneurysm; heart attack; blood clot; tumors; infectious disease; airway obstruction; crushing injuries to the chest; and meningitis. Additionally, reckless conduct on the part of another party, including medical malpractice and medical negligence, can cause ABIs. ABIs can affect reasoning skills and cognitive thought, may cause lapses in memory and reduced physical and mental abilities, and may impair significant body functions.