Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. According to the CDC, in the United States alone, over 5 million people are living with TBI-related disabilities. When someone suffers a TBI due to the negligence of another party in Illinois, they may have a legal claim for damages. Neuropsychological testing plays a critical role in documenting and proving these types of claims.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A TBI is caused by a jolt, blow, or bump to the head or a penetrating head injury that prevents the brain from functioning normally. Not all hits to the head result in TBI. The severity of a brain injury depends on the nature of the injury itself and which areas of the brain were affected. Concussions are considered mild TBIs, while contusions, hemorrhages, and diffuse axonal injuries are more severe.
Common Causes of TBI
- Motor vehicle accidents – The leading cause of TBI, especially among young adults. Occupants can strike their heads on the vehicle interior or be jarred by the impact.
- Falls – The leading cause of TBI among children and older adults. Falling and hitting the head on a hard surface can cause serious injury.
- Violence – Being struck in the head during an assault or by a stray bullet can cause TBI through blunt force or penetration.
- Sports injuries – Concussions and more serious brain injuries frequently occur during contact sports like football, boxing, and hockey.
- Explosive blasts – The pressure waves from IEDs and other explosives can inflict severe brain trauma on military personnel and civilians without causing external injuries.
TBI Symptoms
The symptoms of TBI vary greatly depending on the areas of the brain affected and injury severity. Common effects include:
- Loss of consciousness – From a few seconds to weeks. Longer periods of unconsciousness usually indicate more serious TBI.
- Cognitive deficits – Difficulties with memory, concentration, judgment, problem solving, speech/language.
- Physical effects – Headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, balance issues, seizures, paralysis.
- Emotional changes – Depression, anxiety, impulsivity, aggression.
- Sleep disturbances – Increased need for sleep, inability to sleep.
- Sensory problems – Ringing in the ears, changes in taste/smell, light/noise sensitivity.
The Role of Neuropsychological Testing
Neuropsychological assessments are a critical component of documenting and proving TBI claims in Illinois. These in-depth tests evaluate cognitive functioning in various domains such as:
- Memory and learning
- Attention and concentration
- Language and communication skills
- Visual/spatial abilities
- Reasoning and problem solving
- Processing speed
Neuropsych testing can confirm if a head injury caused cognitive impairment or other brain dysfunction. Results are compared to estimated pre-injury functioning to determine if significant decline has occurred. Serial testing over time also measures recovery progress or ongoing issues.
Uses in TBI Claims
Neuropsychological evaluations help establish three key elements of injury claims in Illinois:
1. Existence of Impairment
Objective test data documents observable cognitive deficits caused by a TBI. Symptoms are correlated with regions of the brain most likely damaged.
2. Causation
The timing of the testing in relation to the accident helps confirm the TBI as the cause of the impairment. Sudden onset of cognitive problems after a trauma indicates it was the source.
3. Disability/Damages
Testing determines the severity of impairment and how significantly it impacts daily functioning. More severe disabilities warrant higher compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.
Overall, neuropsychological assessments provide critical evidence and strengthen TBI claims. The scientifically validated, quantitative data is difficult to dispute. Many TBI cases would lack objective confirmation of injuries without appropriate neuropsych testing.
What to Expect
A neuropsych evaluation involves an extensive clinical interview regarding medical history, the accident details, and a thorough assessment of cognitive functioning across many domains. Various standardized paper/pencil and computerized tests are utilized. The testing process takes several hours to complete.
The neuropsychologist will analyze the data, integrate it with the clinical history, and write a detailed report documenting the presence of any cognitive impairment, the likely cause, and impacts on functioning. This forensic report can be utilized throughout the legal process to validate and support claims.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident caused by the negligence of another party in Illinois, contact the experienced attorneys at Monge & Associates today at (888) 477-0597 for a free consultation. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Illinois, Florida, and Maryland, we have successfully handled numerous TBI claims and understand the critical role neuropsychological testing plays in securing maximum compensation for victims. Our dedicated legal team will thoroughly investigate your accident, build a strong case to hold the at-fault parties accountable, and help you obtain the outcome you deserve. Call now to get started.