Clear signs of brain injury such as impaired cognition or motor function, memory loss, slurred speech and impaired memory make it relatively simple to win compensation for brain injuries caused by negligence.
These emotional and traumatic symptoms include severe depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and other symptoms that can be difficult to prove in court.
The brain is a complex and intricate part of the human body. There are many areas that can be affected. Brain injury victims need an attorney who is knowledgeable about the law. They also need to be well versed in anatomy and how trauma can affect different areas of the brain.
The brain has many major structures, including:
- The cerebral cortex The cerebrum is also known as the brain. It is the largest part and contains two hemispheres: the right and left. The cerebral cortex, located underneath the forehead is composed of four lobes.
- Frontal Lobe — As its name implies, this lobe is located at the front end of the skull. It is responsible for reasoning, judgment, and general information. It controls motor and major muscle functions.
- The Periantal Lobe — This lobe is located at the top-back part of the brain and oversees visual sensations, senses, as well as how the body reacts.
- Occipital Lobe — This is the lobe responsible for controlling vision. It is located behind the skull.
- Temporal Lobes – We have two of these lobes, with one positioned above our ears. They control our hearing, taste, smell, and balance. They are responsible for short-term memory, especially memories of sound or smell, which are two of the most powerful memory recollection senses.
- Membranes — Membranes keep the brain in place and protect it during trauma. They prevent the brain from seperating.
- The brain stem – This is what combines your brain and spinal cord.
- Cerebrospinal fluid – CSF is a fluid which surrounds the membranes of the brain and cushions them from other parts. It also delivers nutrients from blood vessels to the brain cells.
It is important to get a proper evaluation after sustaining a brain injury. Instead of seeing a regular doctor, you should see a specialist who specializes in treating brain injuries.
When assessing brain injuries victims, a specialist will use a variety of screenings and tests to determine the extent of the trauma.
Summarized from an article by Carpenter & Zuckerman.
