Long Island Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have life-altering consequences, often leaving victims with long-term or permanent physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Individuals who have sustained a TBI due to someone else’s negligence may be entitled to compensation to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, the burden falls on the accident victim to pursue their claim, sometimes in court, and prove that another party’s negligence caused their injury. They must also be able to prove the nature and extent of the damage done, which is often a complex matter in the case of TBI. At Jacobson Law, our Long Island brain injury lawyers are committed to representing victims of traumatic brain injuries in New York and helping them secure the justice they deserve.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force impacts the head, causing damage to the brain. This can happen due to a direct blow to the head, a penetrating injury, or even a sudden jolt or violent movement that causes the brain to collide with the skull. TBIs range in severity from mild concussions to more severe injuries that lead to permanent impairment or death.
Common causes of TBIs in personal injury cases include:
- Car accidents: One of the most common sources of TBIs, especially when high-speed collisions result in head trauma.
- Slip and falls: A leading cause of brain injuries, especially for the elderly and in cases where a property owner failed to maintain safe conditions.
- Workplace accidents: Construction site accidents and other hazardous work environments can lead to head injuries.
- Sports injuries: Participation in contact sports or high-impact activities without proper safety precautions can result in brain injuries.
- Assaults: Physical attacks or violent incidents can cause serious head trauma.
Recognizing the Symptoms of a TBI
Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can vary depending on the severity of the impact and the individual’s unique circumstances. In some cases, symptoms appear immediately, while in others, they may not surface until days or weeks after the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches or migraines
- Confusion or disorientation
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
For more severe cases, victims may experience cognitive or physical disabilities, emotional distress, or personality changes. These long-term effects can significantly impair a person’s ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy daily life.
The Importance of Medical Attention and Documentation
If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury, seeking immediate medical attention is critical. Even if symptoms appear minor at first, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further complications. Additionally, documenting medical visits, treatments, and diagnoses can strengthen your legal claim should you pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Accurate documentation will serve as evidence of the injury’s severity, long-term impact, and associated costs.
Pursuing a TBI Personal Injury Claim in New York
In New York, TBI victims may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the party responsible for their injury. To successfully obtain compensation, plaintiffs must demonstrate that the defendant’s negligence caused or contributed to the injury. This typically involves proving that:
- The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care (e.g., a driver following traffic laws or a property owner maintaining safe premises).
- The defendant breached this duty through careless or reckless actions.
- The breach of duty directly caused the plaintiff’s brain injury.
- The plaintiff suffered damages (such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering) as a result of the injury.
A TBI case can be complex, often requiring expert testimony, extensive medical records, and a thorough understanding of New York personal injury law. At Jacobson Law, we work closely with medical professionals and experts to build strong cases on behalf of our clients. Our experienced trial attorneys litigate cases from the start as though they will go to trial, setting up our clients for maximum recovery whether the case goes to the jury or settles out of court.
Compensation for TBI Victims
The impact of a traumatic brain injury can extend far beyond initial medical costs. Depending on the severity of the injury, victims may require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, therapy, and assistive devices. Additionally, many TBI victims are unable to return to work or perform everyday tasks. Compensation in a TBI personal injury claim may include:
- Medical expenses: This includes immediate medical treatment, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical care required.
- Lost wages: If the injury has resulted in significant time off or the inability to work, victims may seek compensation for lost income or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Victims may be compensated for the physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma caused by the injury.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: TBIs can significantly impact a person’s ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies, leading to additional compensation for loss of quality of life.
- Wrongful death: In cases where a TBI leads to death, family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.
Why Choose Jacobson Law?
At Jacobson Law, we understand the devastating effects a traumatic brain injury can have on both the victim and their family. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized representation for TBI victims throughout New York. We handle every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to trial.
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact Jacobson Law today at 631-661-2030 for a free consultation. Our Long Island brain injury attorneys will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.