Mild vs. Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries: What Las Vegas Victims Need to Know
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most serious and complex injuries resulting from accidents in Las Vegas. Whether caused by a car crash, slip and fall, or a sports-related impact, a TBI can have a lasting impact on your life. But not all brain injuries are the same. Understanding the difference between mild and severe TBIs is critical—both from a medical perspective and when pursuing a personal injury claim. Our Las Vegas Traumatic Brain Injury Attorneys from Mainor Ellis understand and are here to help.
Medical Differences Between Mild and Severe TBIs
Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries, such as concussions, may not always show up on imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans. Symptoms can include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or nausea
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Temporary memory loss
- Fatigue or sleep problems
- Difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
While considered “mild” medically, these injuries can still disrupt daily functioning for weeks or months. In some cases, symptoms may develop into post-concussion syndrome and linger for over a year.
Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries, on the other hand, often involve more obvious and permanent damage to the brain. These injuries can result in:
- Loss of consciousness for hours or days
- Seizures or coma
- Long-term cognitive impairment
- Slurred speech or loss of language ability
- Personality changes or mood swings
- Loss of motor function or coordination
Severe TBIs may require emergency surgery, extensive rehabilitation, and lifelong medical care. The impact on a victim’s personal and professional life can be devastating.
Legal Implications in a Las Vegas Personal Injury Case
Whether your TBI is considered mild or severe can greatly influence how a personal injury claim is handled in Nevada. Insurance companies often minimize or dispute the seriousness of mild TBIs, especially if there’s limited physical evidence. This makes strong legal representation essential. A personal injury attorney can help gather medical records, consult with neurological experts, and present a compelling case that shows the full extent of your injury.
In contrast, severe TBIs often result in higher settlements or jury verdicts due to the catastrophic nature of the injury. These cases typically involve long-term or permanent disability, lost earning capacity, and significant non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of quality of life.
Whether your injury is mild or severe, it’s critical to document your symptoms, follow all medical advice, and keep a daily journal of how the injury affects your life. This evidence can make a major difference in the outcome of your claim.
Get the Legal Help You Deserve
At Mainor Ellis, we understand that no brain injury is “minor” when it affects your health, income, and future. If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury in a Las Vegas accident, we are here to help you pursue full and fair compensation. Our experienced team will fight to make sure your injury—no matter the severity—is taken seriously. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us protect your rights every step of the way.
Source:
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557
