Seizures

Traumatic head injuries are a leading cause of seizures. In the wake of a vehicle collision, golf cart accident, fall, or other traumatic event; injuries that disrupt the normal functioning of the brain can trigger seizures anywhere from hours to months -- or even years -- after the initial trauma.

Understanding How Traumatic Brain Injuries Can Cause Seizures

Seizures occur when there is a disruption in the brain’s normal electrical activity. Our brains are constantly sending and receiving electrical signals, and these signals help control everything from coordination and motor function to speech and audiovisual comprehension.

When the brain is injured in an accident, damage to the nerves, blood vessels and other critical pathways can interfere with the normal flow of electrical signals. This can in turn cause a seizure. It is this disruption in the brain’s signal activity that causes symptoms such as:

• Uncontrollable movement (convulsions) or stiffening (rigidity) of the head, arms, legs; and torso
• Erratic facial movements, including shaking eyes, tongue biting; and fumbling movements with the mouth
• Sudden dizziness and fatigue
• Inability to communicate
• Confusion
• Loss of bladder and bowel control
• Loss of consciousness

Understanding Posttraumatic Epilepsy (PTE)

Posttraumatic epilepsy is a disorder characterized by recurrent seizure episodes following a traumatic brain injury. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, about 80 percent of individuals eventually diagnosed with PTE experience their first seizure within 24 months of their traumatic accident. This means that approximately one in five individuals with PTE go more than two years without experiencing any symptoms of epilepsy. As a result, if you or a loved one has recently begun having seizures with seemingly no explanation, it could very well be the case that the seizures are being triggered by the effects of an accident years in the past.

Understanding Your Rights After Being Diagnosed With a Posttraumatic Seizure or PTE

As with other types of traumatic brain injuries and disorders, Florida law entitles individuals diagnosed with posttraumatic seizures and PTE after accidents to seek just compensation for their medical bills and other losses. In order to recover compensation, it will be necessary to demonstrate that your (or your loved one’s) seizures are the result of the crash -- and this can present certain challenges when seizures occur months or years down the line. At the Babiarz Law Firm, PA, we have particular experience representing clients with traumatic brain injuries; and we can help locate trusted physicians who are experts in documenting the causes of posttraumatic seizures and PTE.

Due to the time limitations that apply to personal injury claims in Florida, it is important that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible -- particularly if it has been a year or longer since the accident. Our team can act quickly if necessary, and we can help you make informed decisions at every stage of your claim for compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation with The Villages Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer

If you would like more information about seeking financial compensation for a posttraumatic seizure or PTE, we encourage you to contact us for a free consultation. To speak with attorney Tim Babiarz in confidence, please call (352) 205-7599 or contact the Babiarz Law Firm, PA online today.