Wichita Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer

An injury to the brain can affect the body’s motor skills and mental functions. Following a severe head injury, it can be difficult, or nearly impossible, for victims to deal with the consequences and legal complications that are likely to arise.

This is when a Wichita brain injury lawyer becomes a vital asset in securing fair compensation and justice for victims and their families.

Suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a life-altering experience, impacting not only the individual affected but also their families and loved ones. In such challenging times, seeking legal representation becomes crucial, and hiring a Prochaska, Howell & Prochaska LLC attorney who specializes in brain injuries can make a significant difference.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries

TBI is a complex medical condition caused by a sudden external force or trauma to the head, resulting in damage to the brain.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) states that people age 75 years and older had the highest numbers and rates of hospitalizations and deaths, accounting for about 32% of TBI-related hospitalizations and 28% of TBI-related deaths. Males were nearly two times more likely to be hospitalized and three times more likely to die from traumatic brain injuries than females.

Common causes of traumatic brain injuries include:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Falls, especially among the elderly and young children
• Workplace accidents
• Concussions from contact sports like football, soccer, and boxing
• Physical violence or intentional harm to the head
• Blast injuries in military combat zones

TBIs can vary widely in severity, ranging from mild concussions to severe injuries with long-term consequences. These injuries can occur in various situations, including accidents, falls, sports-related incidents, or assaults.

Some common types of TBIs are:

• Concussion: A mild form of TBI often results from a blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, temporary memory loss, and dizziness.
• Contusion: Refers to a bruise or bleeding on the brain’s surface, typically caused by a direct impact to the head.
• Penetrating injury: Occurs when an object penetrates the skull and damages the brain tissue. Common causes include gunshot wounds or sharp objects.
• Diffuse axonal injury: Caused by strong rotational forces, leading to widespread damage to nerve fibers in the brain. Can result in more severe and long-term impairments.

TBIs can lead to other serious conditions as well, including:

• Meningitis: Meningitis is a bacterial infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges). If meningitis is not diagnosed immediately, it can lead to brain damage, mental difficulties, neurologic deficits, deafness, loss of digits or limbs, paralysis, and death.
• Hemorrhagic stroke: The bursting of a blood vessel causing bleeding in the brain.

Medical professionals use imaging tests (CT scans, MRI) to assess the extent of brain damage.

This evaluation of symptoms and medical history is crucial for diagnosis (and absolutely necessary as evidence in case of future legal action). While mild cases may require rest and monitoring, more severe cases may need surgery, medications, and rehabilitation.

Long-Term Effects and Complications

In addition to physical issues like motor coordination and speech difficulties, the long-term effects of a traumatic injury to one’s brain can include cognitive impairments ranging from memory problems and difficulty concentrating to impaired problem-solving skills.

Emotional and behavioral changes often include mood swings, depression or anxiety, and increased irritability.

Recovery and rehabilitation options include:

1. • Physical Therapy to help with motor skills and coordination.
   • Occupational Therapy in daily activities and cognitive skills.
   • Speech Therapy in addressing communication challenges.

Why Hire a Brain Injury Attorney

Traumatic Brain Injuries can have profound and lasting effects on individuals’ lives.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective management. Seeking medical attention and appropriate legal representation in cases of TBI is vital to ensure the well-being and rights of those affected.

Here are some of the specific skills that an experienced Wichita traumatic brain injury lawyer brings to the table on your behalf:

Legal Expertise and Specialization

One of the primary reasons to hire an injury attorney is their specialized knowledge and expertise in this specific area of law.

TBI cases often involve intricate medical details, long-term consequences, and complex legal processes.

Attorneys specializing in this field have experience and a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with brain injuries, allowing them to provide focused and effective legal representation.

Navigating Complexities of Medical Evidence

TBIs involve intricate medical evidence that needs careful examination and presentation.

A qualified attorney can collaborate with medical experts to establish a clear link between your injury and the incident, ensuring that all relevant evidence is properly documented and presented.

This becomes crucial when seeking compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and potential long-term care.

Assessment of Damages

Traumatic brain injuries often result in a range of damaging consequences, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential long-term care costs. A skilled TBI lawyer can thoroughly assess the extent of these damages, ensuring that all present and future expenses are considered in the legal proceedings.

This comprehensive evaluation is vital for obtaining fair compensation.

Negotiation Skills

Negotiating with insurance companies or opposing parties can be challenging, especially when dealing with the complexities of TBI cases.

A brain injury attorney has the negotiation skills to engage with insurance adjusters and legal representatives. Their experience in similar cases allows them to pursue the best possible outcome for yours.

Courtroom Advocacy

In some instances, TBI cases may proceed to trial. Having a seasoned TBI attorney by your side is crucial for effective courtroom advocacy. They can present your case persuasively, cross-examine witnesses, and address legal complexities, greatly increasing the likelihood of a favorable verdict.

Access to Resources

TBI cases may require access to various resources, including medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and vocational rehabilitation professionals. Your TBI lawyer often has an established network of experts they can tap into to strengthen your case and provide well-rounded support.

Emotional Support and Guidance

The period after someone suffers an injury to their brain is emotionally challenging.

A compassionate TBI attorney not only provides legal assistance but also offers emotional support and guidance throughout the legal process. This holistic approach can help you navigate the complexities with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Traumatic brain injuries are life-altering events that necessitate careful legal consideration. If you or someone you care about has suffered a traumatic brain injury, we can help!

Hiring a Wichita traumatic brain injury lawyer ensures that you and your family receive the advocacy, expertise, and support you need to navigate the complexities of the legal system.

From assessing damages to negotiating with insurance companies, our specialized attorneys at Prochaska, Howell & Prochaska LLC play a crucial role in seeking justice and fair compensation for those affected by traumatic brain injuries.

Contact us today for a free consultation; we’re here to help.