Even a small slip on a wet floor in a grocery store in the Los Angeles area can result in a person hitting his head and suffering a concussion and brain injury. Being in a crash with a big-rig truck or while on a motorcycle increases the chance of a traumatic brain injury even more. 

According to the Brain Trauma Institute, brain injuries are a major concern in the United States. Here are some compelling facts:

  • Traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of death for children and for adults up to the age of 44.
  • The most common causes of brain injury are vehicle accidents, slips and falls, or sports injuries.
  • Approximately 52,000 people die from traumatic brain injury each year.
  • At least 5,300,000 Americans currently suffer with traumatic brain injury.

Differences in Right Brain and Left Brain Injuries

Which part of the brain is damaged affects what day-to-day activities are impacted. The brain is divided into two hemispheres: the right and left sides. Each side governs different functions. Depending on which side of the brain is hurt in a slip and fall or vehicle accident, a person will struggle with different activities in his everyday life.

The left side of the brain controls language and speech. If a person suffers a traumatic brain injury on this side of the brain, he could have some of the following difficulties:

  • Difficulties in understanding what people are saying.
  • Difficulties speaking and expressing feelings.
  • Increased feelings of depression and anxiety.
  • Verbal memory problems.
  • Problems thinking logically.
  • Lack of control over the right side of the body.

The right side of the brain controls nonverbal and spatial abilities. When a person suffers a traumatic brain injury to this section of the brain, he may suffer some of the following problems:

  • Visual-spatial difficulties.
  • Visual memory problems.
  • Decreased awareness of problems being experienced.
  • Changes to creative and music perceptions.
  • Lack of the ability to see “the big picture” when solving problems.
  • Loss of control over the left side of the body.

No matter which part of the brain is damaged, a person’s life could change dramatically.

If you or a family member has suffered traumatic brain injury due to a vehicle accident or a slip and fall, you’re most likely dealing with huge medical bills and other major life changes. You need to contact an attorney right away to help you get the compensation you deserve. Fill out the online form on this page to request a free consultation.

Peter Steinberg
Connect with me
Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney Since 1982