Lafayette Brain Injury Lawyer

Lafayette, Louisiana is a vibrant, diverse city that over 120,000 people call home. While it’s a great place to visit or live, it’s always important to be aware of the potential risks of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) because they can happen to anyone, anywhere.

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we know the devastating impact that traumatic brain injuries can have on individuals and their families. We also understand the importance of providing comprehensive legal representation by a Lafayette brain injury lawyer for those who have suffered a brain injury due to the negligence of another party. 

If you or a loved one suffered a TBI due to another party’s negligence, you can work with a brain injury lawyer in Lafayette, La to file a claim against the liable party.

What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury occurs when there is a sudden impact to the head that causes damage to the brain. An injury such as this can result in extreme disturbances to cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. Furthermore, TBIs can range from mild to severe, and the long-term effects can be life-altering.

This can happen as a result of a fall, motor vehicle accident, sports-related injury, or any other situation where the head suffers a significant blow. 

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury

TBIs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Falls: Falls are the leading cause of TBIs, especially in young children and older adults.
• Car Accidents: Car accidents are a significant cause of TBIs, especially for drivers and passengers who do not wear seatbelts as well as those involving pedestrians 
• Sports-Related Injuries: Contact sports such as football, soccer, and boxing can lead to TBIs.
• Violence: Assaults and other violent acts can also result in TBIs.

Different Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries Can Result in Varying Side Effects

There are typically three different stages of traumatic brain injury, each with distinctive symptoms and potential outcomes. TBIs typically fit into one of these categories:

1. Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries or Concussions
2. Moderate Traumatic Brain Injuries
3. Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries

According to Mayo Clinic, many indicators show if a person has suffered trauma to the brain. For instance, TBI victims often lose consciousness after an accident, however, it can take time before other symptoms appear.

Symptoms can include personality or mood changes and loss of motor function. In severe cases, TBI can result in death.

Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries or Concussions:

Mild traumatic brain injuries and concussions are some of the most common and overlooked types of TBI. In a case such as this, a victim who suffers head trauma may fall into a confused state or lose consciousness for approximately 30 minutes.

Common symptoms of Mild TBIs include:

• Sensitivity to light
• Slow thinking
• Nausea
• Memory loss
• Headaches

Moderate Traumatic Brain Injuries:

Moderate traumatic brain injuries manifest when a person’s head sustains trauma that causes a loss of consciousness for a period of 30 minutes to 24 hours. However, it’s possible to experience memory loss for up to seven days.

FYI: Although moderate TBIs share symptoms with mild TBIs or concussions, their effects often persist for a more extended period or even permanently.

Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries:

Severe traumatic brain injuries arise when an individual’s head sustains trauma that causes lasting cognitive and physical impairments, including 

• tremors, 
• speech disorders, 
• and paralysis. 

However, some symptoms may not be immediately recognizable and may overlap with preexisting characteristics. These symptoms include

• heightened impulsivity,
• diminished self-worth,
• inflexible thinking,
• and poor decision-making abilities.

The Statute of Limitations: What You Need to Know

The prescription period, also known as the statute of limitations, establishes the cutoff for filing a personal injury claim. Generally, under CC Art. 3492, the time frame is one year from the date of the accident or when the victim first becomes aware of their injury. 

However, certain exceptions apply to cases concerning faulty products or medical malpractice claims.

If you contact a Lafayette brain injury lawyer from our law firm, we can discuss the deadline for your case. In the event that you choose to work with our team, a skilled Lafayette traumatic brain injury attorney will take all necessary measures to ensure that your lawsuit is filed in a timely manner.

Contact a Lafayette Brain Injury Lawyer at Gordon Mckernan Injury Attorneys

If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury due to the negligence of another party, our law firm can help you seek justice. We understand the complexity of TBI cases and have the experience and resources necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Our legal team will work tirelessly to investigate the cause of your injury, identify all responsible parties, and hold them accountable for their actions. We will also work with medical experts to understand the full extent of your injuries and the long-term consequences they may have on your life.

Contact our law office today to schedule a FREE consultation and learn how we can help you get the compensation you deserve for your traumatic brain injury.