One of the major public health issues in Canada and a leading cause of disability and death in people under 45, acquired brain injuries are the subject of many medical malpractice lawsuits. An acquired brain injury is an injury that occurs to the brain after birth. Acquired brain injuries are not congenital or degenerative, and prevent your brain from functioning normally. Categorized as mild, moderate or severe, acquired brain injuries can result in:
- Physical disabilities
- Emotional disabilities
- Memory loss
- Personality changes
- Dysfunctional behavioral impulses
- Anger management difficulty
- Impaired judgment
- Impulse control impairment
- Communication disabilities
- Limitations in mobility
- Substance abuse and alcohol abuse
Causes of Acquired Brain Injury
Some of the most common causes of acquired brain injury (ABI) are:
- Strokes
- Degenerative neurological diseases
- Infections
- Medical malpractice
- Oxygen deprivation to the brain
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Carbon monoxide inhalation
- Anoxia
- Toxic Chemical inhalation
- Mercury or lead poisoning
Due to the many complications that can arise from an acquired brain injury, victims may require rehabilitation and long-term care that might include medical services such as physical therapy, attendant care, psychological therapy, and occupational therapy. An acquired brain injury takes it toll
on victims and their families both emotionally and financially. And, if you or a loved one has suffered an acquired brain injury as the result of a medical mistake or negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages and assistance with ongoing care.
Compensation Available to Acquired Brain Injury Victims
While not all acquired brain injuries are the result of medical malpractice, if you can prove your case, you may be entitled to the following types of compensation.
- Medical expenses, including emergency room fees, hospital visits, doctor visits, medical bills and costs, MRI testing, and other specialized medical care.
- Future medical expenses to deal with any long-term medical care needs
- Lost wages as a result of your inability to work while recuperating or should you be disabled from working at all
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, including mental suffering, fright, depression, trauma, anxiety, distress
- Property damage
Select a Lawyer Experienced in Medical Malpractice Law to Represent You in Your Medical Malpractice Lawsuit
If you plan to file a medical malpractice lawsuit as a result of your or a loved one’s acquired brain injury, it is important that you select a lawyer to represent you who is experienced in medical malpractice law. You’ll want to select a lawyer with a successful record of large compensation awards for medical malpractice suits, who has ample resources to follow through with any claims you might have against a doctor, hospital, or other healthcare provider.
