Delaware is one of the states where car accidents are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. Approximately six to twelve months after they are injured, many victims are walking, using their hands and enjoying a mostly normal, independent life. A significant number of TBI victims are left with long-term consequences.
After a TBI, balance and coordination can be adversely affected, which can prevent the person from ever returning to sports and other activities they once took part in. There may also be behavioral and personality changes as a result of brain injuries. It is also common for family members of TBI victims to become distressed by the changes.
Common emotional and behavioral changes and their causes:
- Frontal lobe damage, which controls behavior and emotions.
- Emotional changes can be caused or made worse by cognitive impairment.
- A person who has difficulty following conversations due to impaired concentration could be frustrated.
Changing circumstances can cause emotional reactions, such as losing income, being unable to work and taking care of the family. Adult TBI victims who need medical care and supervision might feel depressed and frustrated.
Behavioral and personality changes may include:
- Mood swings and overwhelming emotions
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Dependency on others
- Aggressiveness
- Lethargy
- Insufficient motivation
- Unacceptable behavior under certain circumstances
In addition to the lack of awareness of the changes caused by TBI, victims may not realize the extent of the damages. Others are blind to the true impact of the changes caused by the injury. Changes can vary, depending on the particular part of the brain affected.
Medical expenses, therapy costs and income loss can lead to financial difficulties. A victim of brain injuries can sue in a Delaware civil court for personal injuries resulting from another party’s negligence. In successful cases, a monetary judgment may cover documented present and future losses.