California Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can profoundly affect every aspect of a person’s life. Even “mild” cases can affect mental health, sensory input, and communication. More severe TBIs often demand extensive medical treatment, permanent adjustments to daily routines and goals, and ongoing accommodations.

A TBI victim may face serious health challenges that impact their ability to work, cause mental health struggles, and strain both professional and personal relationships. Because TBIs are complex medical conditions, recovery is often a lengthy and difficult journey.

If you have sustained a TBI as the result of someone else’s negligence, a personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for your injuries. Landsem Law Office is here to support you through the legal process so you can focus on your healing and recovery.

The Importance of Hiring a Qualified Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer

Traumatic brain injuries are frequently misdiagnosed, which means they can be difficult to prove in a personal injury lawsuit. Often called “invisible injuries,” TBIs may cause symptoms that are not outwardly visible, leaving victims to suffer in ways that aren’t immediately apparent. Insurance companies frequently use this to downplay the long-term impact of your injury and minimize the compensation you deserve.

At Landsem Law Office, we work with trusted medical experts to gain a thorough understanding of your injury and its effects on your life. We build a compelling case for mediators, judges, juries, and insurance companies alike. We are committed to advocating for you after a TBI so you can concentrate on your recovery. 

To speak to a traumatic brain injury lawyer (northern California), call Landsem Law Office: (530) 605-3744.

What Causes Traumatic Brain Injuries?

Most brain injuries occur when a significant bump or shift affects the head, causing trauma or damage to brain tissue. However, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can happen even without a direct blow to the head. 

The most common causes of TBIs include:

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Falls (especially among children and older adults)

• Being struck by falling objects

• Birth-related injuries

• Construction accidents

• Defective products (such as helmets or hard hats)

• Contact sports (including football, rugby, and others)

If you have suffered a brain injury as the result of someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Speak to the TBI lawyers in Redding, CA by calling (530) 605-3744.

Nearly 6 in 10 TBIs are initially misdiagnosed by the treating medical provider.

Common Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injuries can affect the physical, cognitive, sensory, and behavioral systems of the body. A TBI sufferer may experience one or more of the symptoms of brain injury. Even if you are only experiencing one symptom listed below, it is critical to seek medical attention for a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan.

Physical Symptoms

Headaches and fatigue are among the most common TBI symptoms. Loss of bladder/bowel control, sleep disruptions, and poor coordination can also result from a traumatic brain injury. These serious regulatory changes can require costly medical accommodations for the sufferer.

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Sensitivity to light or blurred vision

• Loss of coordination and/or balance

• Fatigue

• Spasticity or muscle weakness

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Seizures

• Irregular menstrual cycle

• Infertility

Cognitive Symptoms

TBI survivors often struggle with confusion, shortened attention spans, confusion, time loss, and challenges with abstract concepts. Sequencing events or an order of operations can be extremely vexing, as can making quick judgments and relatable responses. This can affect interpersonal relationships, including those at work, leading to a loss of income and earning capacity.

• Cognitive/mental fatigue

• Loss of consciousness

• Memory problems or amnesia

• Difficulties with concentration or multitasking

• Feeling dazed or disoriented

• Difficulty completing tasks

• Difficulty sleeping, or sleeping more than usual

• Difficulty reading or writing 

• Delayed speech or slurring words

• Depression, anxiety, and/or panic attacks

• Inability to recognize people or faces

• Poor judgment/hoarding

Sensory Symptoms

TBI sufferers often experience changes in their sensory perception. This can include either a reduced sense of feeling or heightened sensitivity in different areas of the body. They might also become sensitive to light and notice a decrease in visual sharpness. Hearing issues are common, and some people may find that familiar smells or tastes now seem unusual or distorted.

• Light sensitivity 

• Blurred vision or visual distortions

• Noise sensitivity 

• Loss of taste

• Changes in the ability to smell

• Ringing in the ears

• Alcohol sensitivity

Behavioral Symptoms

People with TBIs often find that their relationships become more difficult. They may struggle to make or keep friends because it’s harder to control emotions and behaviors or understand social cues. All types of relationships can be affected. Mood swings, anxiety, depression, apathy, and increased anger are common after a TBI and can put extra strain on family life, friendships, and romantic relationships.

• Personality changes include but are not limited to:

• Aggression

• Impulsivity

• Apathy

• Irritability

• Mood swings

• Withdrawal from loved ones

• Lack of emotion

• Poor hygiene

• Loss of libido

• Resistance to healthcare

• Substance abuse

• Criminal activity

If you suffered a head injury and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, seek medical attention immediately and speak to a traumatic brain injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Traumatic Brain Injuries: Frequently Asked Questions 

What is a traumatic brain injury?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is “a medical condition caused by a forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by an object penetrating the skull.” TBIs can result in both visible and hidden injuries, impacting nearly every area of a person’s life. 

There are two types of brain injury: closed-head injuries and open-head injuries. An open head injury, or penetrating injury, occurs when an object breaks through the skull and enters the brain tissue. A closed head injury happens when there is a blow or jolt to the head, but the skull itself does not break or get penetrated. Open injuries have a higher risk of infection, while closed injuries may carry a greater risk of internal complications like swelling or blood clots if not promptly treated.

Landsem Law Office, our personal injury attorneys in Redding, CA, are dedicated to demonstrating the full impact of your injuries and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. Contact us today to discuss your case: (530) 605-3744.

How is a traumatic brain injury diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose TBIs using a combination of neurological and cognitive assessments, along with imaging tests. The process typically includes a neurological exam, which checks vision, hearing, strength, sensation, balance, coordination, and reflexes to evaluate how different areas of the brain are functioning. Doctors may also ask questions to assess memory, concentration, and awareness of current events. (If the person is unconscious, the Glasgow Coma Scale is used to measure their level of consciousness based on eye, verbal, and motor responses.)

Imaging tests can also come into play. A CT scan is usually the first imaging test performed to quickly identify bleeding, swelling, or fractures. If more detail is needed, an MRI may be done to detect subtle brain injuries that a CT scan might miss. Neuropsychological testing may also be used to evaluate cognitive function and emotional health, especially if symptoms are mild or unclear.

Because TBIs can affect many parts of the brain, symptoms vary widely and may not appear right away. No single test can always detect a TBI, especially mild cases. Doctors rely on a thorough medical history, details about the injury, and a combination of exams and scans to make the diagnosis.

Research shows that mild TBIs are frequently missed or misdiagnosed; studies show that over half of all TBIs may not be identified in emergency settings. If you believe you or a loved one has suffered a TBI, prompt and comprehensive medical evaluation is essential.

Contact Landsem Law Office at (530) 605-3744 to speak with a traumatic brain injury lawyer.

Is a concussion a type of traumatic brain injury?

Yes. A concussion is considered a mild TBI and typically results from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist in the skull, leading to chemical changes and sometimes stretching or damaging brain cells. 

While a concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), not all TBIs are concussions. While concussions are usually not life-threatening, their effects can still be serious and may include symptoms like headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and memory problems. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over hours or days, and most people recover with rest and medical observation.

Traumatic brain injuries encompass a broader category of brain injuries that result from external force. They can range from mild (like concussions) to moderate or severe. Serious TBIs can result in long-term or permanent disability. They can require more intensive medical intervention, such as surgery or rehabilitation, and can have lasting effects on personality, memory, behavior, and physical abilities. 

Are traumatic brain injuries curable?

The permanence of a TBI depends on the severity of the injury. Mild TBIs, such as concussions, often resolve with rest, over-the-counter pain relief, and careful monitoring. Moderate to severe TBIs typically require more intensive treatment, which may include emergency medical intervention, surgery, prescription medications, and ongoing physical and mental rehabilitation.

For those with serious TBIs, rehabilitation is essential to minimize complications and help patients recover as much brain function as possible. The primary goal is to preserve and restore cognitive abilities. Rehabilitation teams are often multidisciplinary, involving physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychiatrists, social workers, vocational counselors, and other specialists to support the patient’s recovery and adaptation to any lasting effects.

While treatment for a traumatic brain injury may vary, any case involving someone else’s negligence may benefit from legal representation. Talk to a brain injury attorney in Redding CA, by calling (530) 605-3744.

Do traumatic brain injuries get worse with age?

Research indicates that moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have lasting effects and may even worsen over time, sometimes developing into chronic conditions. This progression is more likely if the injury is not promptly diagnosed or properly treated. Increasingly, TBIs are recognized not only as acute injuries but also as chronic health issues that can impact individuals long-term.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, recovery from a TBI depends on several factors, including the patient’s age, overall health, other injuries, stress levels, the severity of the brain injury, and how quickly it was identified and managed. For more information about your specific prognosis, consult your doctor. Speak with a Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney in Redding, CA: (530) 605-3744

Is a TBI considered a disability?

A traumatic brain injury can be considered a disability if it affects your ability to perform major life activities such as working, walking, concentrating, or interacting with others. 

When symptoms are severe and persistent, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Social Security Administration both recognize TBI as a potential disability. Not every TBI results in long-term disability, but moderate to severe cases, or those with lasting cognitive or physical impairments, often qualify. Center for Disease Control (CDC) also identifies TBI as a major cause of disability in the United States.

If your TBI prevents you from working or significantly limits your daily activities, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. To qualify, you must provide medical documentation showing the extent of your limitations and how long they are expected to last. For help with the application process, or to discuss your case, contact Landsem Law Office: (530) 605-3744.

I suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident. Do I need a lawyer?

If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a car accident, it is highly recommended to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. Both the TBI victim and their family members can retain an attorney.

TBIs are complex injuries that can have long-term effects on your health, finances, and quality of life. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and ensure that critical evidence is preserved early on. Legal professionals can also handle communications with insurance companies and other parties involved, allowing you to focus on your recovery rather than the stress of managing your claim alone.

States have strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. California’s statute of limitations is two (2) years from the date of the injury; this means you need to file your traumatic brain injury (TBI) lawsuit within that time frame. (However, there are some exceptions; speak to a TBI lawyer in Redding CA for details.)

What can I receive compensation for in a TBI lawsuit?

Compensation for personal injury, including traumatic brain injury, can include any of the following:

• medical expenses (covering both current and future treatment, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy); 

• lost wages from time missed at work;

• reduced earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected;

• the cost of ongoing care, assistive devices, and necessary modifications to your home or vehicle

• Pain and suffering/emotional distress

• Loss of enjoyment of life

• Loss of consortium (loss of relationship/intimacy) for spouses or partners. 

In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct in the future.