Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) have finally started getting the attention they deserve. For too long, this type of injury has been poorly understood and seriously underestimated. Medical science—and society as a whole—are only now coming to terms with the debilitating, often horrific consequences of traumatic injuries to the brain.
If you or your loved one has suffered a TBI, your life has been undeniably disrupted—and possibly forever changed. TBI victims experience excruciating pain, disorientation, confusion, and mood swings they can’t regulate. Not only do their most cherished relationships suffer, many find it almost impossible to navigate even mundane activities—let alone hold down a job, complete their schoolwork, or manage the complexities each of us has to deal with every day. The losses—psychological, cognitive, social, and financial—can be almost incalculable.
As the survivor of a catastrophic accident, Norm Steiner understands what it means when the life you once lived is derailed by a devasting injury. This includes its financial toll, which adds stress and uncertainty to an already stressful and uncertain time that should be spent resting and healing. He also knows how to fight back and get the compensation you deserve, so you don’t have to. At The Steiner Law Firm, PLLC, our accomplished team of personal injury lawyers stands prepared to help you on your road to recovery.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A TBI occurs when an external force causes brain dysfunction, often through a blow or jolt to the head, or from the penetration of the skull. Healthcare facilities have a tiered rating system for mild, moderate, and severe TBIs, but each level represents an intense, difficult condition that requires expert medical care.
Most TBIs are diagnosed as mild, but there are over 69,000 TBI-related deaths in the U.S. every year. While incidents affect people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds, TBIs are more common among certain groups:
- People living in rural areas
- People experiencing homelessness
- Victims of domestic violence
- Members of the armed services
- Racial and ethnic minorities
- Correctional facility detainees
Common causes of TBIs include motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, and violent assaults. Symptoms vary widely, encompassing physical issues like headaches and dizziness; memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and other cognitive problems; and emotional changes including depression and irritability.
The consequences of TBIs are often far-reaching: Individuals who suffer moderate or severe TBIs have a 30% chance of their condition becoming worse five years into recovery, research shows. Victims also contend with lower quality of life because of:
- Inability to perform daily activities
- Increasing dependence on others
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Emotional and psychological trouble
How a Lawyer Can Help in Recovering Damages
Gaining compensation and justice for an accident causing a TBI requires assessing the circumstances to determine liability. A lawyer will investigate the incident and identify all responsible parties, including negligent drivers, property owners, employers, or even manufacturers of defective products.
Unfortunately, insurance companies usually aim to minimize payouts, and if a fair settlement isn’t reached through negotiation, victims can take the matter to court. Throughout the process, a lawyer offers invaluable support and alleviates the legal burden so you can focus on healing and readjusting to post-injury life.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in New York
A traumatic brain injury can alter the course of your life, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. As a competitive boxer, Norm knows what it means to fight for a purpose, whether in the ring with an opponent, after a devastating injury, or in the pursuit of justice and fair compensation for his clients. Contact The Steiner Law Firm, PLLC to schedule a free consultation today.