Every year, a significant number of Americans endure the harrowing consequences of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), facing challenges that can alter their lives indefinitely.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 1.4 million Americans experience brain injuries annually, with at least 5.3 million individuals requiring long-term care due to TBI-related complications.
Whether resulting from a sudden impact, such as a car dashboard collision, traumatic brain injuries are potentially life-altering events that may lead to both short and long-term impairments and, in tragic cases, wrongful death.
At The Ward Law Group, our brain injury lawyers in Rockland County bring over 60 years of combined legal expertise to assist clients in securing fair compensation.
We understand the extensive medical and legal ramifications associated with head injuries and acknowledge the emotional strain that a personal injury claim can impose on individuals and their families.
Our dedicated team is poised to manage your claim adeptly, allowing you to focus on the path to recovery.
Consequences of Traumatic Brain Injury
The repercussions of traumatic brain injuries are profound, causing enduring physical permanent disabilities and significant cognitive and behavioral changes that disrupt the overall quality of life for victims.
The Ward Law Group is committed to advocating for clients to ensure they receive the compensation essential for their recovery. We firmly believe that victims should not bear the financial burdens resulting from accidents that were not their fault.
We strive to help you obtain the monetary settlement you deserve by holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.
Contact our Traumatic Brain Injury lawyers in New York State—Rockland County to schedule a consultation and have your claim evaluated.
If you've endured a traumatic brain injury due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit.
Whether the injury occurred in a motor vehicle accident or construction incident or resulted from a defective product or unsafe premises, you have the right to seek compensation.
One of our brain injury lawyers in New York is here to assist you in recovering damages and financial compensation for medical and rehabilitation expenses, lost income, diminished earning capacity, property damage, and the pain and suffering you've endured.
Contact us today at 855-DOLOR-55 to discuss your case and begin the journey toward the justice and compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
At The Ward Law Group, we understand that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can result from diverse circumstances. While each case is unique, the following are common causes that we frequently encounter:
- Sports-Related Injuries: TBI can occur in sports activities, particularly during impactful tackles or collisions. Our legal team is experienced in handling cases involving sports-related traumatic brain injuries.
- Workplace Explosions: Employees may suffer traumatic brain injuries due to workplace explosions. The Ward Law Group provides legal support for those seeking compensation after such incidents.
- Acts of Violence: Victims of assault may experience traumatic brain injuries. Our attorneys advocate for those who have sustained TBIs as a result of violent acts.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. The Ward Law Group specializes in representing individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents.
- Slips and Falls: Traumatic brain injuries can result from falls, including those from ladders, stairs, uneven sidewalks, and other hazards. Our legal team assists clients in proving liability for such incidents.
Proving a TBI Claim
Successfully winning a traumatic brain injury claim requires thorough evidence presentation. Collaborating with our skilled attorneys, you'll gather key evidence to strengthen your TBI claim:
- Medical Records: Comprehensive documentation of diagnosis and treatment is crucial. The Ward Law Group guides clients in organizing and presenting relevant medical records.
- Diagnostic Results: CT scans revealing brain damage play a pivotal role. We work with medical professionals to ensure the inclusion of compelling diagnostic evidence in your claim.
- Witness Testimonies: Statements from witnesses who observed the traumatic event provide valuable perspectives. Our legal team helps compile and present impactful witness testimonies.
- Visual Evidence: Photos or surveillance footage capturing the incident strengthen your case. The Ward Law Group assists in obtaining and utilizing visual evidence effectively.
- Expert Testimony: Leveraging expert opinions on TBI effects enhances the claim's credibility. Our network of qualified experts contributes valuable testimony to support your case.
Types of Brain Injuries
Brain injuries are broadly classified into two categories: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Acquired Brain Injury (ABI).
- Open Brain Injuries: Result from objects penetrating the skull, such as gunshot wounds.
- Closed Brain Injuries: Occur due to blunt force trauma without skull penetration.
- Focal or Localized Brain Injuries: Impact a specific region of the brain.
- Diffuse Brain Injuries: Affect multiple brain regions, including Diffuse Axonal Injuries (DAIs) caused by twisting, shaking, or rotating the brain.
- Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injuries: Impact two opposite areas of the brain.
- Brain Trauma and Contusions: Bruises on the brain leading to swelling and bleeding.
- Intracranial Hematomas: Result from unrecovered brain contusions, leading to large blood clots and increased pressure on the brain.
- Acquired Brain Injuries (ABI): Factors like near-drowning, aneurysm, stroke, or disease cause internal injuries to the brain.
Brain Injury Severity - The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)
Brain injuries are categorized based on severity, assessed through the Glasgow Coma Scale:
- Mild TBI: GCS score of 13 to 15 points.
- Moderate TBI: GCS score of 9 to 12 points.
- Severe TBI: GCS score of 3 to 8 points.
- A score below 3 may indicate severe injury, vegetative state, or death.
Signs & Symptoms of Brain Injuries
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury and its location. For mild TBI, symptoms may include dizziness, headaches, and memory issues.
More severe injuries may lead to loss of consciousness, personality changes, seizures, and other critical signs.
It's important to note that signs and symptoms may not always be immediate, possibly appearing hours or days after an accident. Shock or secondary brain injury could contribute to delayed manifestations.
Holistic Approach to Traumatic Brain Injury Cases at The Ward Law Group
At The Ward Law Group, we go beyond legal representation and embrace a holistic approach to handling traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases.
Recognizing the profound impact of such incidents, our firm acknowledges the human aspect behind each case. We understand that the right attitude plays a crucial role in overcoming the challenges posed by traumatic events like TBIs.
- Human-Centric Advocacy: Our attorneys at The Ward Law Group approach TBI cases with empathy, recognizing the emotional and psychological toll they can take on victims and their families. We prioritize not just the legal aspects but also the overall well-being of our clients.
- Guidance Beyond Legalities: We offer advice and support beyond legal proceedings, understanding that a traumatic brain injury is not just a legal matter but a life-altering event. Our commitment extends to assisting clients in navigating the emotional and practical challenges during the recovery process.
- Assistance in Spanish: The Ward Law Group is dedicated to breaking language barriers. We provide full assistance in Spanish, ensuring that our services are accessible to the entire Hispanic community in the United States. By offering legal support in Spanish, we strive to reduce the gap in access to top-tier legal counsel, providing comfort and understanding during challenging times.
- Reducing Barriers, Providing Comfort: Our continuous efforts to reduce the gap in legal assistance extend to making our services available in Spanish.
We believe that language should never be a barrier when seeking justice. By providing support in our client's native language, we aim to offer comfort and assurance, fostering a deeper connection and understanding throughout the legal process.
For The Ward Law Group, every TBI case is not just about legalities; it's about supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. Contact The Ward Law Group today for compassionate, comprehensive, and Spanish-assisted legal representation tailored to your needs.
Evaluating the Value of Your Brain Injury Case
Determining the worth of your brain injury case involves various factors, and at The Ward Law Group, we understand the intricacies that contribute to its value.
Our seasoned attorneys specialize in assessing the unique aspects of each case to provide comprehensive insights.
Factors Influencing Case Value:
Several elements impact the value of your brain injury case, including:
- Available Insurance Coverage: The extent of available insurance coverage is a crucial factor influencing the potential compensation for your case.
- Accident Circumstances: The details surrounding the accident play a significant role in assessing liability and compensation.
- Injury Severity: The severity of the brain injury directly correlates with the case's potential value.
- Recovery Duration: The length of your recovery period is crucial, as it reflects the impact on your life.
- Employment Impact: Whether you can return to work and the effects on your employment contribute to the overall evaluation.
- Ongoing Medical Needs: If you require continuous medical care and rehabilitation, it influences the long-term costs and, consequently, the case's value.
Exploring Compensation Avenues:
After a traumatic brain injury, seeking compensation is your right. Our Miami brain injury attorneys can guide you through the process, helping you or your family members pursue compensatory damages for various losses.
Economic Damages Include:
- Medical bills, both past and anticipated future expenses
- Rehabilitation costs, covering acute, subacute, and post-acute care
- Financial implications like home or car modifications, home health care, childcare, and domestic services
- Lost wages post-accident
- Diminished earning capacity or disability-related financial losses
Non-Economic Damages Cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Reduced quality of life
Trust The Ward Law Group:
With our expert guidance, brain injury cases, often worth significant figures, are meticulously addressed. Insurance companies may contest claims, but our team is ready to fight for your rights.
Contact The Ward Law Group for a free consultation, and let us build the most robust case possible to secure the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit for a Brain Injury in New York?
In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including brain injuries, is governed by specific laws outlined in the New York Consolidated Laws, Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR). The relevant provisions are as follows:
- General Personal Injury Cases: Under CPLR § 214, the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including brain injuries resulting from accidents, is three years. This means that legal action must be commenced within three years from the date of the accident or injury.
- Discovery Rule: New York follows the discovery rule in cases where the brain injury is not immediately apparent, or the victim discovers the injury later. According to CPLR § 214-c, the three-year statute of limitations begins to run from the date of discovery of the injury or when it should have been discovered through reasonable diligence.
- Medical Malpractice Cases: If the brain injury is a result of medical malpractice, CPLR § 214-a specifies that the statute of limitations is generally two years and six months from the date of the alleged malpractice or the end of continuous treatment for the same illness, injury, or condition.
- Wrongful Death Cases: In the unfortunate event of a brain injury leading to wrongful death, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of death (CPLR § 214(5)).
Contact a TBI Lawyer in Rockland County
It's essential to consult with The Ward Law Group promptly after sustaining a brain injury to ensure compliance with these statutes and to initiate legal proceedings within the prescribed timelines.
Our legal team is well-versed in New York laws and stands ready to assist you through the complexities of your case.
Contact us today, and let’s evaluate your case together! Do not face this event alone!
Trust in the best professionals in the field! The Ward Law Group is ready to hear more about you! Call now at 855-DOLOR-55!