Brain Injury Lawyer Amarillo

Understanding Brain Injury Cases in Texas

A brain injury is one of the most severe injuries a person can sustain. Because the brain is responsible for every bodily action, a brain injury can affect everything from a person’s ability to speak to their ability to move around and care for themselves. The cost of treating a brain injury is exorbitant, and many victims will never fully heal.

If you or someone you love suffered a brain injury and you believe someone else’s careless, reckless, or negligent actions were to blame, you could have grounds for a personal injury case.

At Wood Law Firm LLP, our Amarillo brain injury lawyers are ready to help you understand your legal options, including your right to fair compensation. We are dedicated to seeking justice for accident victims and those injured due to another’s negligent or wrongful conduct.

To discuss your potential case with a member of our team, call (806) 304-0447 or contact us online. Your initial consultation is free, and there are no fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Common Causes of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries, specifically traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are commonly caused by accidents and other catastrophic events.

Often, these incidents are entirely preventable. When another party is negligent or acts unlawfully, leading to a serious injury, the victim or their loved ones can seek justice and financial compensation by filing a case against the at-fault party.

Some of the leading causes of brain injuries include:

Brain injuries often result in extended hospital stays, ongoing rehabilitation, and a lifetime of care, making them not just physically taxing but also financially draining. Early legal intervention can be crucial in ensuring that victims and their families are adequately supported during these challenging times. Legal professionals can help establish the long-term needs of the injured, creating a robust case for compensation that reflects the true cost of the injury.

At Wood Law Firm LLP, our Amarillo brain injury attorneys can help you take legal action if your or your loved one’s traumatic brain injury was the result of another person or entity’s negligence or misconduct. We have extensive experience investigating and managing these types of cases, and we have a proven record of success in representing injured Texans fight for the fair recoveries they were owed.

Types of Brain Injuries

Like any other injury, brain injuries range in severity. While some TBIs are less serious than others, however, all brain injuries are considered serious. If you suspect you or someone else has sustained any type of brain injury, no matter how seemingly mild, seek medical attention right away.

Common TBIs include:

• Concussions: A concussion is considered a relatively mild brain injury, though it can still have adverse effects. This is especially true when an individual suffers multiple concussions over time or when a concussion is particularly severe. Concussions occur as a result of a blow to the head or the head making sudden impact with another object, such as the ground or the dashboard of a car. A concussion can lead to mild to moderate brain damage and may occur alongside other brain and head injuries, such as contusions (bruises).
• Coup-Contrecoup Injuries: A coup-contrecoup injury occurs when the head is struck by or makes impact with an outside object, and the force of this impact causes the brain to slam against the opposing inside of the skull. This results in two points of injury on the brain: one at the initial point of impact and one where the brain makes contact with the inside of the skull.
• Diffuse Axonal Injury: Diffuse axonal injuries (DAIs) are very serious brain injuries that can lead to massive brain damage, coma, or death. DAIs occur when the head moves violently on the neck, causing the brain to move separately within the skull. This leads to tearing (or “shearing”) of the connections in the brain, causing severe and often irreversible damage. This type of brain injury can be difficult to detect, making it even more dangerous.
• Penetrating Injury: As opposed to concussions, coup-contrecoup injuries, DAIs, and brain contusions, which are all closed-head injuries, a penetrating brain injury is a type of open-head injury. These occur when an outside object pierces the skull (causing a skull fracture) and makes contact with the brain. Penetrating brain injuries are some of the most serious TBIs and often lead to permanent, irreversible brain damage, as well as coma and death.

Brain injuries, irrespective of their type or severity, require immediate medical attention and long-term management to mitigate the potential for lasting damage. Awareness and education about these injuries can not only aid in early detection but also empower individuals to seek timely legal recourse. By understanding the nuances of different brain injuries, victims and their families are better equipped to navigate the complexities of healthcare and legal systems.

Understanding Brain Injury Laws in Amarillo

In Amarillo, as in the rest of Texas, brain injury cases are subject to state-specific laws and regulations that can significantly affect the outcome of a claim. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning that if a person is found to be more than 50% responsible for their injuries, they cannot recover compensation. This highlights the importance of thorough legal preparation and evidence gathering to establish clear liability in brain injury cases.

Moreover, Texas imposes strict statutes of limitations on personal injury claims, generally allowing victims two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually means forfeiting the right to seek compensation. This makes it crucial for victims in Amarillo to consult with knowledgeable attorneys promptly to ensure all legal timelines and requirements are met. Understanding these legal intricacies can be pivotal for anyone navigating the aftermath of a brain injury.

Local Resources & Recovery Options for Brain Injury Victims

For those living in Amarillo, several local resources can aid in the recovery and support of brain injury victims. Facilities like the Northwest Texas Healthcare System and BSA Hospital provide specialized medical care and rehabilitation services tailored to the needs of TBI patients. Engaging with local support groups can also offer emotional help and shared experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

Additionally, organizations such as the Brain Injury Association of Texas offer advocacy, resources, and support for individuals and families affected by brain injuries. These services are invaluable in connecting victims with needed therapies, legal advice, and financial planning. Local resources play a critical role in helping victims not only navigate their recovery process but also regain a sense of normalcy and empowerment.