Many know that the National Football League (NFL) this year reached a $765 million settlement with former players over the league’s handling of brain trauma cases. The settlement will not include the families of players who died prior to 2006; the former players felt pressured into a settlement that many wanted to refuse. Families of many players who died or killed themselves for reasons related to brain trauma will collect no compensation.

When someone suffers a physically traumatic incident like a fall, a car accident, or a professional football game, we naturally look for injury signs such as bruising, swelling, cuts, or abrasions. We know – at least from the news stories about NFL players – that closed head injuries are frequent, but they’re seldom diagnosed immediately and accurately.

It’s imperative to obtain immediate medical treatment upon an accurate diagnosis of a closed head injury. As soon as possible, also seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. Lasting effects of a closed head injury can be severe and may lead to seizures or even impaired brain function, which may eventually be disabling. Concussions can be serious, so treat them seriously. Multiple concussions have been shown have cumulative, long-term effects. Concussions and other closed head injuries often cause sleep disorders, depression, or anxiety.

More education, including the recent stories about the former NFL players, is slowly improving our understanding of closed head injuries and is prompting more victims to seek help. If you’ve suffered a closed head injury, and another person’s negligence was the cause of your injury, you may be able to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and more with a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate the specifics of your case and give you the legal counsel and representation you need. In the San Diego area, if you or a family member has suffered a closed head injury in an accident, please contact attorney Gary Sernaker to discuss your rights and options under California Law.