The Omega Law Group extends our sincere empathy to those affected by traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These types of injuries can be incredibly challenging, both for the victim and their loved ones.
As Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyers, we have extensive experience handling these cases. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate support to make sure you receive the care and resources you need during this difficult time.
At Omega Law Group, we believe in a client-centric approach. Let our family take care of your family. We’re here to listen, advise, and advocate for your rights every step of the way. Contact one of our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers today.
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury
When dealing with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), our lawyers in Los Angeles can help you address the challenges that arise. A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden, forceful impact to the head or body disrupts the brain’s normal function. This kind of injury often requires urgent medical care.
Key Points to Know About Traumatic Brain Injury:
- Cause of injury: Traumatic brain injuries result from an external force, such as a jolt or blow to the head, which disrupts brain function.
- Distinguishing factors: Unlike acquired brain injuries (ABI), which stem from internal conditions like stroke or tumors, TBIs are caused by physical trauma.
- Symptoms and diagnosis: Symptoms of TBI and ABI can overlap, so healthcare providers will assess whether the symptoms followed a specific head injury to accurately determine the type of brain injury.
Understanding these differences is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you or a loved one is dealing with a traumatic brain injury, our Los Angeles traumatic brain injury attorney is here to provide support and guidance.
Recognizing Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) vary in severity and are diagnosed based on the type and length of symptoms experienced. It’s important to be aware of the signs and seek medical help if needed.
Symptoms of mild TBIs:
- Brief loss of consciousness
- Confusion or disorientation lasting seconds to minutes
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Trouble speaking
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Memory or concentration difficulties
- Mood swings or emotional changes
- Blurred vision, ringing in the ears, or unusual taste
Symptoms of moderate to severe TBIs:
In addition to the symptoms listed for mild TBIs, more severe injuries may present with:
- Extended loss of consciousness
- Severe or persistent headaches
- Continuous nausea or vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Unequal pupil dilation
- Clear fluid draining from the nose or ears
- Difficulty waking from sleep
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Severe coordination problems
- Persistent confusion or agitation
- Slurred speech
- Coma
If you or someone you know is showing these symptoms, it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention. Our team in Los Angeles is here to help if you need guidance or support. We get results.
Leading Causes of TBIs
According to the CDC’s data, the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are:
- Falls: In 2013, falls made up 47% of all reported TBIs, significantly affecting both the young and the elderly. For children under 14, falls accounted for 54% of TBIs, while for adults 65 and older, the number rose to 79%.
- Impact from Objects: Striking or being struck by objects, such as in sports-related concussions, accounted for 15% of TBIs in 2013. Children under 15 were particularly at risk.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Traffic-related incidents were responsible for 14% of TBIs in 2013 and were linked to 19% of TBI-related deaths.
Understanding the primary causes of TBIs can help in taking preventive measures, particularly for vulnerable age groups. By staying informed and cautious, we can significantly reduce the risk of these serious injuries.
Effects of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to significant long-term challenges, particularly in motor functions.
These functions are divided into two categories: gross motor skills, which involve large body parts like arms and legs, and fine motor skills, which involve smaller movements such as those of the fingers and facial muscles.
Gross Motor Impairments:
- Partial or total paralysis
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Muscle stiffness
- Muscle weakness
- Poor coordination
Fine Motor Impairments:
- Difficulty blinking and dry eyes
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Challenges with tasks like writing, buttoning shirts, and tying shoelaces
Cognitive and Sensory Effects
Cognitive impairments are common in TBI patients and can severely impact their daily lives. Primary issues include disturbances in attention, memory, and executive functioning, leading to secondary symptoms such as:
- Distractibility and confusion
- Impulsiveness and lack of inhibition
- Difficulties with planning and abstract thinking
Speech, Language, and Sensory Impairments
TBIs can also affect speech, language, and sensory perceptions:
Speech and Language Issues:
- Aphasia (difficulty with speaking, understanding language, reading, and writing)
- Slurred or unusually paced speech
- Problems with reading comprehension
Sensory Impairments:
- Vision: Partial or total vision loss, double vision, blurred vision, depth perception issues, light sensitivity
- Hearing: Hearing loss, tinnitus, increased sound sensitivity
- Smell and taste: Loss of smell or taste, persistent bad taste in the mouth
- Perception: Difficulty identifying touch and pressure, temperature, or body movements
Our firm understands the extensive effects of TBIs, which helps in recognizing the varied challenges faced by those affected and the importance of comprehensive care and support.
Emotional and Behavioral Effects
The emotional and behavioral effects of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be particularly challenging, often stemming from struggles with physical and cognitive issues. Individuals may experience depression, mood swings, irritability, aggression, social dependency, and lack of motivation.
Fortunately, psychological counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy have proven effective in helping patients manage these symptoms.
How to Prevent TBI
Taking steps to prevent TBIs can make a significant difference in safety:
- Always buckle up: Safety belts are a simple yet vital way to protect yourself from TBIs in car accidents. Make it a habit to fasten your seatbelt every time you drive or ride in a vehicle, and make sure children are secured with appropriate car seats or boosters.
- Avoid driving under the influence: Never drive after consuming alcohol or drugs.
- Wear helmets: Protect your head by wearing a helmet when:
- Riding bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, ATVs, or scooters
- Participating in contact sports like football, hockey, or boxing
- Skateboarding or rollerblading
- Horseback riding
- Skiing or snowboarding
- Create a safe environment: Protect children and seniors, who are more vulnerable to TBIs, by:
- Installing window guards to prevent falls
- Using safety gates at stairs
- Removing tripping hazards
- Placing non-slip mats in showers and bathtubs
- Installing handrails next to stairs, bathtubs, and toilets
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of TBIs and promote a safer environment for everyone.
What Will a Los Angeles Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer Do?
Hiring a lawyer isn’t just about improving your chances of a favorable outcome; it’s about having a trusted ally throughout your legal journey. A Los Angeles personal injury attorney with experience in TBI claims and other common personal injury claims will protect your rights and advocate for your case’s true value.
- Collecting medical records to establish the nature and severity of your brain injury
- Identifying the party responsible for your damages
- Determining the fair value of your economic and non-economic losses
- Negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance company
- Demonstrating the profound impact of your brain injury on your life
- Representing you in court, if necessary, to seek fair compensation
Our attorneys are ready to support you in every way possible, from connecting you with top brain injury specialists in LA to taking your case to trial.
The Difficult Nature of Brain Injury Cases
Brain injuries are particularly difficult to diagnose and treat due to the brain’s intricate structure. The effects of such injuries can be highly unpredictable, making any prognosis challenging.
Unlike other injuries, brain damage often requires lifelong medical attention and care. Depending on the severity, some individuals may need 24/7 care and might not be able to return to work, while others may experience significant memory loss.
At our law firm, we recognize the significant impact brain injuries have on victims and their families. Our Los Angeles brain injury attorneys are dedicated to helping you secure financial support for hospital bills, lost wages, ongoing medical care, and other related expenses so you have the resources to move forward.
Financial Recovery for Brain Injury Victims in California
Brain injuries often lead to significant personal injury claims due to their severe nature. The case value is closely tied to the damages experienced. If you or a loved one has incurred substantial medical bills, faced disabilities, or lost wages, your case could be worth a considerable amount.
Having a brain injury lawyer in Los Angeles with trial experience is essential. If an insurance company denies your claim or offers an unfair settlement, an attorney can push for a higher amount through a lawsuit. The possibility of going to trial can provide additional leverage and peace of mind.
Discover the potential value of your claim with a free case review at our office. An experienced attorney will guide you through the process.
How to Choose the Right Brain Injury Attorney
When dealing with a brain injury or spinal cord injury claim, it’s vital to find a top attorney and law firm in Los Angeles. If you or a loved one has suffered a life-changing injury, prioritize quality legal support. Start by asking friends or family for recommendations; personal referrals can be invaluable.
Next, research potential attorneys. Look for brain injury lawyers in Los Angeles with a track record of proven results, positive client testimonials, and solid legal capabilities. Make sure the firm has a positive reputation in the community. Narrow your list to one to three firms and schedule free consultations to meet the attorneys.
During these consultations, ask questions to assess each lawyer’s fit for your needs. Choose the attorney who feels most capable of securing the best outcome for your case. Taking these steps will help you find the right advocate to support you through this challenging time.
Our Los Angeles Traumatic Brain Injury Attorneys Can Help
After a traumatic brain injury, finding the right attorney is essential. A Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you pursue a fair settlement and guide you through the legal process with care and professionalism.
Omega Law Group is a trusted firm that always puts its clients first—always. They understand the impact of brain injuries and offer compassionate, effective legal assistance to achieve the best outcomes.
Choosing Omega Law Group makes sure you have an advocate by your side. Reach out to a Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer at our firm to discuss your case and start your journey to recovery.