Gallatin Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers
Our Gallatin TBI attorneys are here to help after a serious head injury
Here at Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, we recognize the profound impact that traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have on individuals and their families. Whether caused by accidents, medical malpractice, or other unfortunate events, TBIs can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Our dedicated team of Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorneys advocates for those affected by TBIs, offering compassionate support and legal guidance throughout the process. We are here to help TBI survivors and their families obtain the compensation and resources they need to rebuild their lives. Top of Form
How can we help?
- What is a traumatic brain injury?
- How can your Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorneys help?
- What is the value of my Gallatin traumatic brain injury claim?
- What are the different types of traumatic brain injuries?
- What are the symptoms of Gallatin traumatic brain injuries?
- What causes traumatic brain injuries?
- Do you have a Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorney near me?
What is a traumatic brain injury?
Johns Hopkins Medicine defines TBI as:
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when a sudden, external, physical assault damages the brain. It is one of the most common causes of disability and death in adults. TBI is a broad term that describes a vast array of injuries that happen to the brain. The damage can be focal (confined to one area of the brain) or diffuse (happens in more than one area of the brain). The severity of a brain injury can range from a mild concussion to a severe injury that results in coma or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be broadly categorized into two main types based on the presence or absence of a skull fracture:
- Open head injury (penetrating TBI): This type of TBI occurs when an object pierces the skull and enters the brain tissue. This can happen due to accidents, assaults, or gunshot wounds. Open head injuries are typically more severe than closed head injuries because they can damage brain tissue directly and also increase the risk of infection.
- Closed head injury (non-penetrating TBI): This type of TBI occurs when there is no break in the skull, but the brain is still injured. This can happen due to a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, such as from a fall, car accident, or sports injury. Closed head injuries can range in severity from mild (concussion) to severe, with potential damage to brain cells and blood vessels.
How can your Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorneys help?
Our Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorneys are dedicated to providing complete support and legal representation to individuals and families affected by traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Here's how we can help:
- Case evaluation: We conduct a thorough evaluation of your TBI case to assess liability, damages, and potential legal strategies. Our goal is to provide you with a clear understanding of your rights and options so that you can make informed decisions about your case.
- Investigation: Our legal team conducts comprehensive investigations to gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and build strong cases on behalf of TBI survivors and their families. We work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to ensure that all aspects of your case are thoroughly examined.
- Negotiation: We are skilled negotiators who advocate aggressively for the rights and interests of our clients. Our attorneys are skilled at negotiating with insurance companies and opposing parties to seek fair and just settlements that fully compensate TBI survivors for their losses.
- Litigation: If necessary, our attorneys are prepared to litigate TBI cases in court to pursue maximum compensation for you. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle complex litigation and advocate effectively for TBI survivors and their families in the courtroom.
- Compassionate support: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that TBIs can take on a person and family. Our attorneys provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process, offering reassurance, empathy, and personalized attention every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in Gallatin or the surrounding areas, our experienced TBI attorneys are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in seeking justice and compensation for your injuries.
What is the value of my Gallatin traumatic brain injury claim?
Determining the value of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) claim involves a thorough assessment of various factors unique to your case.
- First, the severity of your TBI plays a significant role in determining the value of your claim. Severe TBIs that result in long-term cognitive impairment, physical disability, and emotional distress typically result in higher compensation due to the extensive impact on the individual's life. Conversely, mild TBIs with temporary symptoms may result in lower compensation amounts.
- Your medical treatment and expenses are another factor in determining the value of your TBI claim. This includes past and future medical expenses related to hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, therapy, medication, and assistive devices. Additionally, the cost of ongoing care and treatment for long-term effects of the TBI, such as cognitive therapy or home health care, must be considered in the evaluation of your claim.
- The impact of the TBI on your daily life and future earning capacity also influences the value of your claim. This includes factors such as the loss of income or earning potential due to the inability to work, diminished cognitive or physical abilities, and the need for accommodations or modifications to your living environment. Compensation may also be sought for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium for your loved ones.
The value of your traumatic brain injury claim can only be accurately determined after a thorough evaluation of the specific facts and circumstances surrounding your case. Consulting with an experienced Gallatin TBI attorney is essential to ensure that your legal rights are protected, and that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
What are the different types of traumatic brain injuries?
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be categorized into several different types based on the nature and severity of the injury. The main types of TBIs include:
- Concussion: Concussions are mild TBIs that result from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body causing the brain to move rapidly back and forth. Concussions may or may not involve a loss of consciousness and can lead to temporary symptoms such as headache, confusion, dizziness, and memory problems.
- Contusion: A contusion is a bruise on the brain caused by a direct impact to the head. Contusions can range from mild to severe and may result in bleeding and swelling of the brain tissue, leading to symptoms such as headache, drowsiness, confusion, and neurological deficits.
- Diffuse axonal injury (DAI): DAI occurs when the brain's nerve fibers (axons) are stretched or torn due to rapid acceleration or deceleration forces, causing widespread damage throughout the brain. DAI is often associated with severe TBIs and can result in coma, vegetative state, or long-term cognitive and neurological impairments.
- Coup-contrecoup injury: Coup-contrecoup injuries occur when the brain is injured at the site of impact (coup injury) and on the opposite side of the brain due to the brain rebounding against the skull (contrecoup injury). These injuries often result from high-velocity impacts and can lead to multiple contusions and diffuse axonal injuries.
- Secondary injury: Secondary brain injuries can occur in the hours or days following the initial trauma and may result from factors such as swelling, increased intracranial pressure, bleeding, or lack of oxygen to the brain. Secondary injuries can exacerbate the primary damage and lead to further neurological deficits and complications.
Each type of traumatic brain injury can vary in severity and may require different approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and management. Prompt medical evaluation and appropriate treatment are vital for optimizing outcomes and minimizing long-term complications associated with TBIs. If you or a loved one have suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to talk to a Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorney right away.
What are the symptoms of Gallatin traumatic brain injuries?
Symptoms of traumatic brain injury are varied and can include:
Physical symptoms:
- Headaches or migraines
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Blurred vision or changes in vision
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
- Loss of consciousness (brief or prolonged)
Cognitive symptoms:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering new information
- Slurred speech or difficulty forming words
- Slow thinking or processing speed
- Difficulty with problem-solving or decision-making
Emotional and behavioral symptoms:
- Mood swings or changes in mood
- Irritability or agitation
- Anxiety or depression
- Increased aggression or impulsivity
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Social withdrawal or isolation
Sensory symptoms:
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Changes in taste or smell
- Changes in sensation or numbness in the extremities
Motor symptoms:
- Weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs
- Coordination difficulties
- Tremors or seizures
If you or a loved one are exhibiting symptoms of TBI, ensure you get medical attention right away for the best outcome for your injury.
What causes traumatic brain injuries?
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be caused by a variety of external forces that damage the brain. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Falls: Falls are one of the leading causes of TBI-related hospitalizations, especially among older adults and young children. Falls can happen at home, on the job, or in public places, and the severity of the TBI depends on the height and nature of the fall.
- Motor vehicle crashes: Car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and bicycle accidents can all lead to TBIs, ranging from mild concussions to severe head injuries.
- Violence: This includes assaults, domestic violence, and gunshot wounds. These types of injuries can be particularly severe due to the force and penetration involved.
- Sports injuries: Contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing carry a higher risk of TBI, but even non-contact sports like soccer and skiing can lead to head injuries. Repeated concussions are a particular concern in athletes.
- Explosions: Blasts from military combat, fireworks, or industrial accidents can cause significant pressure waves that damage the brain.
- Shaken baby syndrome: This is a serious form of child abuse that can cause TBI in infants and young children.
- Other causes: Less common causes of TBI include drowning, near-drowning, choking, and medical procedures.
It's important to remember that even seemingly minor head bumps can lead to TBIs, so it's crucial to seek medical attention after any head injury, regardless of how mild it seems. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Do you have a Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorney near me?
Rocky McElhaney Law Firm has several locations throughout Tennessee to better serve our clients. We can also schedule phone or video consultations if you are too ill or injured to visit us.
Talk to our Gallatin traumatic brain injury lawyers today
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), dealing with the legal process while focusing on recovery can feel daunting. At Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, we understand the challenges you face and the importance of securing the compensation and support you need to move forward. Our team of compassionate and experienced Gallatin traumatic brain injury attorneys is here to guide you through every step of the legal process. We will fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Let us be your advocates as you focus on healing — contact us today to begin your journey towards recovery and resolution. To schedule a free consultation, call our offices or fill out our contact form.