Thousands of people suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) every year. The most common causes are car accidents, falls, contact sports, and medical malpractice. TBIs often have life-altering consequences for victims and their families. If this has happened to you or a loved one, surgery, physical therapy, and home care are just some of the services you will require for your significant injury.
If the negligence of another party caused your injury, contact our team at the Philadelphia office of The Rothenberg Law Firm for a free consultation. We understand the gravity of your situation and know how difficult it can be when medical expenses and other bills pile up. You may not be able to function as you used to before your TBI and/or may be unable to work to support your family. We fight hard to make sure you receive the maximum compensation available for your injury.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
An external force, such as a blow to the head, usually causes a traumatic brain injury. While some TBIs may be considered a mild form of brain injury, others can lead to lifelong disabilities.
Common TBI symptoms include the following:
- Headaches
- Confusion or disorientation
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Memory loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision or ringing in the ears
If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, seek medical attention immediately. TBIs can range from mild concussions to life-threatening. Some people develop lifelong mental health issues and personality changes.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries fall into two main categories: penetrating and closed brain injuries.
- Penetrating brain injuries describe cases when an object pierces or enters the brain. For example, a piece of metal or glass can penetrate the brain in a car accident.
- Closed brain injuries occur when the skull remains intact. Blunt force from a motor vehicle accident as well as injuries from contact sports are two common causes.
Healthcare workers further classify brain injuries into primary and secondary types. A primary brain injury happens at the time of the incident, while a secondary brain injury takes time to develop. For example, a TBI caused by a car crash is likely a primary type, but damage to the blood vessels can lead to chronic damage and secondary injuries.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
The three most common causes of brain injuries caused by the negligence of another party include the following:
- Accidents, Assault, and Impact. Car, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents often result in sudden jolts or blunt force to the brain. Assaults, such as a robbery, can also lead to TBIs. Sport-related injuries, especially in high-contact sports like football or boxing, are another common cause. Finally, falls can lead to serious brain injuries, particularly among older adults and young children.
- Reduced Oxygen to the Brain. Traumatic brain injury can occur when the healthy flow of blood or oxygen to the brain is disrupted. This type of TBI often happens during childbirth when newborns do not receive enough oxygen or in cases of near-drowning where the brain is deprived of oxygen for an extended period. It takes only four minutes without oxygen for permanent brain damage to occur.
- Chemicals, Gases or Other Substances. Hazardous substances can cause brain injuries, especially if inhaled or ingested. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a typical example of this type of TBI, as the gas can block oxygen from reaching the brain. Drug overdoses and alcohol abuse can also lead to severe brain damage.
Proving Liability in Brain Injury Cases
Establishing liability requires proving that the defendant acted wrongfully or negligently and that this behavior directly resulted in the victim’s injury. When a personal injury attorney from The Rothenberg Law Firm takes on cases like these, we spend significant time and effort on the following:
- Analyzing the accident or incident to determine what happened and who might be liable. In some cases, we might employ accident reconstructionists.
- Reviewing medical records, including the ER visit, follow-up care with your primary care doctor, and any specialists consulted so that we understand the full extent of your injuries.
- Compiling evidence, including accident and police reports, medical records, CCTV footage, dashcam videos, and witness statements.
We will work with your medical providers to identify the care you need to recover and the expenses related to your brain injury. We will use all available resources to build a strong case to pursue the maximum compensation available for your losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Traumatic Brain Injury?
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years. Our attorneys will guide you in determining how long you have to file your TBI case. Failing to file a claim within this period could result in losing the right to seek compensation.
How Our Philadelphia Brain Injury Lawyers Can Help
Our Philadelphia brain injury lawyers are dedicated to helping victims of traumatic brain injuries. We’re proud that we’ve won and collected billions for our clients!
Contact The Rothenberg Law Firm today for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront legal fees. We do not take any money from you, unless and until we are successful in winning your case.
Philadelphia Office Location
The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP
1420 Walnut Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19102
