Injured in an Accident? Our South Bend Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers Can Help

Our legal team, specializing in TBI cases, provides more than just legal representation; we extend a hand in partnership to manage the challenges of your recovery path and legal claim. Here’s how our expertise makes a difference:

  • Strategic case building: We construct a compelling case that accurately represents the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. This includes gathering critical evidence and consulting with medical experts to substantiate your claim.
  • Skilled liability identification: Our expertise in Indiana’s laws enables us to navigate the nuances of proving negligence, ensuring that those at fault are held accountable.
  • Expert negotiation: Armed with a robust case and a clear understanding of your needs, we enter negotiations with insurance companies fully prepared to counter lowball offers. Our negotiation prowess is backed by a track record of securing favorable settlements for our clients, reflecting the true value of their claims.

At our firm, we don’t just see a case; we see a person in need of support, guidance, and justice. Partnering with our team at Christie Farrell and Lee Bell means choosing a team committed to your recovery and your rights, every step of the way.

What Constitutes a Traumatic Brain Injury and What Are the Consequences?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a complex medical condition that occurs when an external force causes brain dysfunction. This force can be a jolt, blow, or even a penetrating injury to the head. TBIs are classified into categories based on their severity: mild (often referred to as concussions), moderate, and severe. Ho

When these accidents happen, the consequences of a TBI can be as varied as the incidents causing them, spanning from temporary symptoms to permanent, life-altering conditions. Immediate effects might include loss of consciousness, headaches, confusion, and dizziness. However, the long-term repercussions extend far beyond these initial symptoms. Individuals may experience cognitive deficits, such as impaired memory, attention, and executive functions; physical challenges, including coordination and balance issues; emotional instability, manifesting as irritability, depression, or anxiety; and even sensory problems, like impaired vision or hearing.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Severe TBI?

Recovery from a severe traumatic brain injury varies significantly among individuals. Factors influencing recovery time include the severity of the injury, the specific areas of the brain affected, the victim’s overall health before the injury, and the timeliness and quality of medical treatment received. While some may experience a significant recovery within a few months, others may face a recovery process that spans years or even results in permanent impairments. It’s essential to understand that each TBI is unique, and so is each person’s recovery journey.

What To Do When The TBI Was Caused By Negligence

When you or a loved one suffers a traumatic brain injury as a result of someone else’s negligence, the steps you take immediately afterward are crucial for protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. As experienced lawyers, we guide our clients through a meticulous process designed to build a robust case. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention: Even if symptoms seem mild, a thorough medical evaluation is essential. Documenting your injuries from the outset provides a critical foundation for your claim.
  2. Report the incident: Whether it occurred at a business, someone’s home, or in a public space, ensure the incident is officially reported to the property owner or local authorities. This will ensure you have evidence to build a premises liability case against the responsible parties.
  3. Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and anything that might have contributed to the incident. If there were witnesses, collect their contact information.
  4. Keep detailed records: Save all medical records, receipts, and any correspondence related to the incident. Document your recovery process, noting any difficulties or setbacks.
  5. Consult with a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer at Christie Farrell and Lee Bell: Before speaking with insurance companies, seek legal advice. An attorney specialized in TBIs can offer invaluable guidance and prevent you from settling for less than you deserve.

Deadline for Legal Action in South Bend

In South Bend, and throughout Indiana, the law imposes a strict deadline for filing a legal claim related to personal injuries, including TBIs. According to Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, victims have two years from the date of the injury to initiate legal action, and missing this deadline can forfeit their right to compensation.

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries in South Bend

Through our extensive experience representing TBI victims, we’ve identified several common causes of these devastating injuries:

The causes of TBIs are as varied as the people they affect, and that’s why we believe in a customized legal strategy for each case. We’re dedicated to finding the best approach for proving negligence and winning the compensation you deserve in each unique situation.

You Have the Right to Compensation if Your TBI Was Caused by Negligence

Unfortunately, more than 36,000 Hoosiers are hospitalized and more than 620,000 visit EDs for injuries each year, according to the Indiana State Department of Health. However, when a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the result of another’s negligence, the law provides a pathway for victims to claim compensation, which often includes:

  • Medical expenses: Covering both current and future medical treatments related to the TBI.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for the income lost during recovery and potential future earnings if the injury impacts the victim’s ability to work.
  • Pain and suffering: Acknowledging the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
  • Rehabilitation costs: Addressing the need for physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other rehabilitation services.
  • Home modification costs: If the injury necessitates modifications to the victim’s living environment.
  • Loss of quality of life: Compensation for changes in the victim’s ability to enjoy life and partake in activities they once found pleasurable.

The impact goes beyond the physical and psychological harm; there are financial implications, lost opportunities, and a significant alteration of one’s quality of life. At Christie Farrell and Lee Bell, we understand this, and we’re committed to helping you evaluate all the damages you may be entitled to.

How Much Can You Get From a Traumatic Brain Injury?

While each TBI case is unique, with compensation varying based on the specifics of the injury and its impact on the victim’s life, significant settlements have been achieved. For example, our firm has secured settlements of $1,800,000 and $1,250,000 for clients who suffered TBIs due to improper care.

If you are experiencing a similar situation, we encourage you to discuss your specific circumstances with us to gain a clearer understanding of what compensation might be achievable.

We Can Help You Claim the Compensation You Need to Recover from a TBI – Get in Touch with a Personal Injury Attorney in South Bend

Recovering from a TBI is a challenging journey that shouldn’t be burdened further by financial strain. If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your recovery and fight for your rights.