Traumatic brain injuries refer to any injury caused to the brain due to an accident, bump or hit. Congenital injuries or brain impairments are not included in the definition. Traumatic brain injury for the purpose of establishing a personal injury lawsuit must be an acquired brain injury, according to Connecticut law.

Acquired brain injury, which is distinguished from congenital brain impairment, occurs after birth due to external factors. Car accidents and sports-related head injuries are some of the leading causes of brain injuries. Such external head injuries can often lead to an adverse effect on the brain.

The brain is one of the most vital organs in the human body. A traumatic brain injury can lead to major dysfunction of the central nervous system. Such injuries and dysfunction can leave a person permanently or temporarily impaired. Brain injuries can even be fatal at times. In most cases, traumatic brain injury patients have to pay thousands of dollars in medical bills. Additionally, brain injuries can disable a person, which may lead to psychological trauma as well as unemployment.

With the help of an attorney, the brain-injury victim or the victim’s family may be able to make a case for traumatic brain injury or even wrongful death, depending on the circumstances of the situation. Brain injury victims may also be entitled to services from the Connecticut Mental Health Department.

There are a few eligibility criteria, under Connecticut law, to qualify for special services in a traumatic brain injury case. First, the brain injury must be an acquired brain injury and not a congenital one. Second, the brain injury victim must be over the age of 18 years. Also, the services offered must be accepted voluntarily.

Victims or their family members should look into all of their legal options for help and compensation following the a traumatic brain injury.

Source: CT.gov, “Acquired brain injury services”, Accessed on Oct. 20, 2014