Our brain acts as our commanding center, orchestrating our every move, thought, and emotion. It’s no surprise then that injuries to this vital organ can be devastating, not only physically but emotionally and financially. Traumatic brain injuries, commonly known as TBIs, can significantly alter the course of a person’s life. If you or a loved one has sustained a TBI due to no fault of your own, please don’t hesitate to contact a dedicated Rochester lawyer from Lacy Katzen LLP for guidance.
TBI Lawyer | Fighting for Brain Injury Victims in Rochester & Upstate New York
Sustaining a TBI due to another party’s negligence can be a harrowing experience. Unfortunately, these injuries often leave victims struggling to get back on their feet again. That said, if you’re reading this, you are in the right place. Speak with a seasoned Rochester personal injury lawyer from our firm to learn more about how we can help you get the compensation you need.
What Classifies as a TBI?
A TBI is an injury to the brain caused by a jolt or blow to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal functioning of the brain. Severity can range from “mild” (a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to “severe” (an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss).
Concussions, often downplayed in everyday conversations, actually fall under the TBI umbrella. People frequently dismiss them as mere “bumps on the head.” However, they can have lasting impacts, from persistent headaches to cognitive changes. It’s crucial to understand that a concussion isn’t “just” a concussion – it’s a form of TBI, deserving of medical attention and, at times, legal consideration.
Common Causes of TBIs
While TBIs can arise from numerous situations, certain scenarios stand out as common culprits:
- Falls: Whether from a ladder at a worksite or a slip in the bathroom, falls account for many TBIs.
- Vehicle Accidents: Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, or bicycles can generate significant force, leading to TBIs.
- Violence: Assaults, domestic violence, or gunshot wounds can result in brain injuries.
- Sports Injuries: High-impact sports, such as football or boxing, heighten the risk.
- Explosions: Common among military personnel, the shockwaves from blasts can harm the brain.
- Struck by/against Events: Being hit by an object or slamming against a hard surface can cause TBIs.
- Workplace Accidents: From falling objects on construction sites to machinery malfunctions, work environments can pose TBI risks.
- Child Abuse: Tragically, shaken baby syndrome or other forms of abuse can result in pediatric TBIs.
- Recreational Activities: Activities like horseback riding or diving in shallow waters carry TBI risks.
- Medical Malpractice: Surgical errors or mismanagement during procedures can lead to brain injuries.
The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer in TBI Claims
When a TBI stems from another’s negligence or a defective product, the path to justice and compensation can be intricate. This is where a personal injury lawyer becomes invaluable:
- Claim Evaluation: An experienced attorney can determine the viability of a TBI claim, ensuring that legal action is pursued on solid grounds.
- Investigative Prowess: By gathering evidence, consulting medical experts, and reconstructing accident scenes, lawyers can build a compelling case.
- Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies are notorious for undervaluing claims. A lawyer acts as a shield, ensuring victims receive fair compensation.
- Litigation Skills: If out-of-court settlements prove elusive, an attorney will represent and fight for the victim’s rights in court.
Contact a New York TBI Lawyer Today
TBIs, from concussions to severe brain trauma, represent a complex interplay of medical and legal domains. They don’t just hurt physically – they can strain finances, disrupt careers, and strain familial ties. The consequences ripple out, touching every facet of a victim’s life. If you or a loved one faces the challenges of a TBI due to another’s actions or a product’s failure, you are not alone. Contact a dedicated Rochester TBI lawyer from Lacy Katzen LLP for a free initial consultation.