Caring Legal Counsel After A Devastating Brain Injury
If you or a family member have been the victim of an accident that has caused a brain injury or a traumatic brain injury (TBI), you may have to have specialized medical care for many years to come. This means a very high expense for you and your family. In fact, you may be wondering how you can pay for such expensive care.
Stephens Law P.A., is focused on helping accident victims receive the compensation they require to pay for medical treatments. It is through compensation that injury victims may rebuild their lives. Francis Stephens is highly experienced, skilled, knowledgeable of the law and determined to get results for his clients. In his over 25 years of practice, he has helped his injured clients receive compensation to pay for medical care so they can move on with their lives.
Helping Clients Cope With Traumatic Brain Injury Effects
The injuries that these individuals have suffered range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries that interfere with motor function, speech, sight, and various bodily functions. A person suffering from a TBI may have symptoms such as:
- Impaired motor skills
- Impaired cognitive abilities
- Difficulty with speech
- Reasoning issues
- Memory problems
- Mood swings
- Outbursts of anger
However, the effects of a traumatic brain injury may not always be evident. Understanding what you or your loved one is going through and the extent of their brain injury will help in the legal effort to win compensation from the responsible party. In severe personal injury cases, Mr. Stephens works with medical experts such as neuropsychologists to determine the extent of the damage that you or your family member is living with. He also works with other professionals such as vocational rehabilitation specialists and life-care planners who will give him the information he needs about the services and care required.
Compassionate And Caring Representation
Mr. Stephens always strives to achieve success in your case. When representing you, he builds a strong case designed to acquire the compensation that you need. To do so, he carefully documents your past, present and future financial losses; the emotional damage; and the services and care needed. You can expect dedication to your case so you can receive full compensation for the losses you have sustained. You will never be alone throughout the legal process. He advises you while giving you the emotional support you need during this difficult and confusing time in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traumatic Brain Injuries
Here are some of the most common questions we hear from individuals and families in the Duluth area dealing with traumatic brain injuries and their legal implications.
What steps should be taken right after a possible brain injury?
After a potential brain injury, early action can significantly affect both medical outcomes and any future legal claim. Key actions to take include:
- Seeking immediate medical evaluation, even if symptoms seem mild or delayed
- Following all recommended diagnostic testing such as CT scans or MRIs
- Reporting the incident to authorities, coaches, employers or property owners when applicable
- Documenting symptoms daily, including headaches, dizziness, confusion or emotional changes
- Avoiding activities that could worsen the injury until cleared by a medical professional
Prompt treatment creates a clear medical record linking the injury to the accident. That documentation can become essential if compensation is later pursued for long-term care, lost income or diminished quality of life.
What types of damages may be available in a traumatic brain injury case?
A traumatic brain injury often results in financial losses that extend far beyond initial hospital bills. Compensation in a TBI claim is intended to reflect both immediate and long-term impacts on your life.
Recoverable damages may include current and future medical expenses such as neurological treatment, therapy and prescription medications. Lost wages and diminished earning capacity are often significant, especially if the injury affects cognitive or physical function. Compensation may also address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced independence. In severe cases, damages can account for long-term care needs, assistive devices and home modifications.
Can a claim still be filed if the brain injury occurred during a recreational or sports activity?
Yes, a claim may still be possible depending on how the injury occurred. While some sports involve assumed risks, liability can arise when injuries result from unsafe conditions, defective equipment, negligent supervision or violations of safety rules. Each situation is evaluated based on the facts, including whether reasonable precautions were taken and whether another party’s conduct contributed to the injury.
What evidence is important when building a traumatic brain injury claim?
Strong documentation is essential in traumatic brain injury cases. Helpful evidence may include emergency room records, diagnostic imaging, neurological evaluations and ongoing treatment notes. Additional support can come from employment records showing lost income, testimony from family members about behavioral changes, and opinions from medical or rehabilitation professionals. Accident reports, photographs and witness statements also play an important role in establishing how the injury occurred and who may be responsible.
Contact A Knowledgeable TBI Lawyer For A Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident that has resulted in a traumatic brain injury, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Request a free initial consultation with Stephens Law P.A., at a convenient time, including evenings or weekends. Contact the firm’s Duluth office by calling 218-260-2562 or by using the online contact form.