Researchers have been studying the effects of trauma on the human brain for more than a century. While they have a long way to go to learn everything about brain trauma, scientists have made some startling discoveries.
For example, several recent studies indicate that traumatic brain injury patients may have a risk of developing dementia. If a car accident left you with a brain injury, its possible future effect is something to consider when filing your compensation claim.
What does the research say?
Not everyone with a head injury, even a severe one, will go on to develop dementia. However, a 2014 study found that nearly 9% of patients with traumatic brain injuries were diagnosed with dementia at least a year after the initial injury.
A more recent study revealed that brain trauma victims have a higher risk of developing dementia than those without brain injury by about 24%. The study is one of the largest ever conducted, examining the medical records of 2.8 million brain injury patients.
Can you address it in an accident claim?
The results of these studies raise serious concerns for those who sustained brain trauma in a vehicle or other accident (slip-and-fall, etc.). As if your immediate injury isn’t enough to worry about, you must now cope with the possibility that you might one day face cognitive decline.
Those injured through negligence have a right to compensation for all their losses, even ones that may not manifest for years. With a well-prepared claim and legal guidance, you may make a successful bid for future medical damages in California. It can empower you to plan for any adverse effects you may experience in the months and years to come.