Brain damage occurs when an unexpected trauma causes harm to the brain. Brain damage can take place when the head unexpectedly and violently strikes an object or when an object enters the skull. Brain damage can be mild, moderate or severe, and the symptoms can vary depending on the seriousness of the trauma. Mild brain damage results in a short loss of consciousness, lasting no more than a few minutes, or no loss of awareness at all. Directly after, the victim is stunned and/or confused. There is typically negligible after effects that are permanent. Moderate brain injury is a loss of consciousness that lasts a couple of minutes to many hours. Confusion can last for weeks or months. Disabilities may last for a couple of months or a lifetime, with the victim requiring assistance with daily activities. Severe brain damage is a loss of consciousness continuing for days, weeks, or months. Severe brain damage can result in a coma or a vegetative state. Severe brain damage can result in the need for institutionalization with round-the-clock care. Brain damage lawyers should be contacted to determine if there are negligent parties who should be responsible for the medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering of the victim. The severity of the brain damage and the prognosis for recovery will determine the amount of compensation awarded.