St. Louis Traumatic Brain Injury Attorneys

Fighting For Traumatic Brain Injury Victims in Missouri

The brain is the most precious — and fragile — organ in the human body. If the brain strikes the side of the skull, shakes too much, or is deprived of oxygen, it can result in irreversible, lifelong consequences.

Brain injury symptoms can arise in the weeks, months, and years following what might have otherwise been a seemingly benign head injury. This can commonly come from situations like car and truck accidents, sports injuries, falls, or violent attacks.

If you or someone you love has suffered a brain injury and someone else was at fault, you might be entitled to financial compensation. The experienced St. Louis brain injury lawyers at Niemeyer, Grebel & Kruse can help you obtain compensation to pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Contact us today to learn more about how our traumatic brain injury lawyers in St. Louis can help you obtain the compensation you deserve – (314) 350-1900.

What is a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of damage to the brain that occurs as the result of a traumatic event. A TBI can occur when the head hits an object or when an object penetrates the skull and enters brain tissue. A TBI can also occur when the head is violently shaken.

Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild to severe. Mild brain injuries may cause temporary symptoms, while more severe injuries can lead to long-term problems or even death. 

Common Types of TBIs Include:

• Concussion: A concussion is a mild TBI caused by a blow to the head or sudden movement, leading to temporary brain function disruption. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and confusion, with most individuals recovering fully.
• Contusion: A brain contusion is a bruise on the brain tissue resulting from a direct impact to the head. It can cause localized symptoms, and recovery depends on the severity, sometimes requiring surgery.
• Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI): DAI results from severe rotational forces that tear brain structures, often leading to unconsciousness or coma. Recovery is typically long and may involve significant neurological impairments.
• Penetrating Injury: This type of injury occurs when an object penetrates the skull, damaging the brain. Symptoms vary based on the injury location, and recovery depends on the extent of damage and potential complications.
• Hematoma: A hematoma is a blood collection in or around the brain, which can cause headaches and neurological deficits. Medical intervention is often needed, with outcomes depending on the size and location.
• Skull Fracture: A skull fracture is a break in the skull bone, sometimes accompanied by brain injury. Symptoms may include headache and deformity, with recovery varying based on the fracture type and brain involvement.
• Second Impact Syndrome: This occurs when a second brain injury happens before the first has healed, causing severe brain swelling. It is a medical emergency with potentially fatal outcomes, making prevention crucial.

Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild brain injuries may cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating. More severe brain injuries can cause loss of consciousness, coma, seizures, blurred vision, memory problems, and personality changes.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A doctor will be able to assess the severity of the injury and provide the appropriate treatment. 

Most Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Traumatic brain injuries can arise from many different scenarios, but some are more common than others. The most common causes of TBIs include:

• Falls. Falls are the leading cause of brain injuries in the United States. Children and older adults are particularly susceptible to falls.
• Car Accidents. Car accidents are a major cause of brain injuries. Head trauma can occur when a person is involved in a car accident, even if they are wearing a seatbelt. It is crucial to understand that whiplash and other motions can also contribute to brain injuries in these accidents.
• Sports Injuries. Traumatic brain injuries can occur in any sport, but certain sports (such as football, hockey, and boxing) carry a higher risk. Investing in proper protective gear and education on safe practices can be instrumental in reducing these risks.
• Violence. Violence is another major cause of brain injuries. This can happen when a person is hit in the head with an object or when they are shot. Awareness and preventive measures are essential in high-risk environments.
• Defective Products. Unintended consequences from defective products can also lead to brain injuries. Ensuring product safety and observing recall notices can help prevent such injuries.

If you are involved in an accident, even if you feel fine, it is important to seek medical care. Many brain injuries are not immediately obvious and may not cause any symptoms until days or even weeks after the accident. By seeking medical attention, you can ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment for any potential injuries. 

Is it worth it to work with a traumatic brain injury attorney?

The short answer is yes. Traumatic brain injuries can have a profound and lasting impact on every aspect of your life, from your ability to work to your relationships with your family and friends.

The weeks and months following a traumatic brain injury can be especially difficult. Frequent doctor’s visits can lead to mounting medical bills and missed time from work. Then, adding in managing chronic pain and a diminished quality of life, a difficult situation can quickly become overwhelming. This is where a personal injury attorney can be your lifeline.

Your personal injury attorney will do the heavy lifting of your case for you. Your lawyer will investigate the accident, gather evidence, build a strong case on your behalf, and handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing attorneys. This will allow you to focus on your recovery while your attorney works to get you the compensation you deserve.

At NGK Law, our personal injury lawyers have experience handling traumatic brain injury cases. We understand the unique challenges that TBI patients and their families face. We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need and deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury as the result of someone else’s negligence, contact NGK Law today at (314) 350-1900 for a free consultation with one of our experienced St. Louis personal injury attorneys.

How Does a traumatic brain injury case work?

The first step in any personal injury case is to determine whether you have a valid claim. To do this, your attorney will need to investigate the accident and gather evidence to show that the other party was at fault.

Once it has been determined that you have a valid claim, your lawyer will work on negotiating a settlement with the insurance company. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial.

Depending on the details of the case, the process of filing a traumatic brain injury lawsuit and reaching a settlement can take anywhere from a few months to a year. This is due to the fact that TBI cases are complex and require a great deal of time and effort to build a strong case.

Your attorney will need time to investigate the accident, gather evidence and speak with witnesses. The insurance company will also need time to review the claim and make an offer. If insurance refuses to offer a fair settlement, your case will go to trial.

The trial process can take several weeks or even months. Ultimately, the judge or jury will decide whether you are entitled to compensation for your injuries.

If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury as the result of someone else’s negligence, contact NGK Law today at (314) 350-1900 for a free consultation with one of our experienced St. Louis personal injury attorneys.

How much is my case worth?

Missouri places no restriction on the amount of damages that can be awarded in non-medical malpractice cases. This means that there is no limit on the amount of money you could receive for your injuries.

The value of your case will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact the injuries have had on your life and your ability to work, and the amount of medical bills you have incurred.

Contact Our Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer in St. Louis Today

Our personal injury lawyers have experience handling traumatic brain injury cases and understand the unique challenges that brain injury patients and their families face. We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need and deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury as the result of someone else’s negligence, contact the attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse at (314) 350-1900 for a free consultation with one of our experienced St. Louis traumatic brain injury attorneys.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brain Injuries

What Should I Do Immediately After a Brain Injury?

Following a brain injury, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms seem mild. Medical professionals can conduct essential assessments to gauge the severity of the injury and begin necessary treatment. Delaying medical care may not only worsen physical outcomes but could also complicate any potential legal proceedings.

After addressing immediate medical needs, documenting all incident details is imperative. Collect witness statements, take photographs, and keep track of all medical records and expenses. This documentation can serve as vital evidence if you decide to proceed with legal action. Additionally, contacting a competent brain injury lawyer as soon as possible will help reinforce your efforts to seek compensation and clarify the legal steps ahead.

How Long Does a Brain Injury Legal Process Take?

The duration of a brain injury legal process can vary widely, influenced by intricacies such as the severity of the injury, the volume of evidence, and the willingness of involved parties to settle. Generally, it can take several months to years, particularly if taken to trial. Each phase requires careful coordination and planning, from initial investigation to final resolution.

Your attorney will strive to expedite the process by diligently managing negotiations, and court preparations while ensuring your rights and interests remain paramount. Although the timeline may seem daunting, legal support is structured to guide you with transparency and confidence throughout the proceedings.

What Should I Look For in a Brain Injury Attorney?

Experience and a track record in handling comparable cases should be top priorities when selecting a brain injury attorney. Look for an attorney who compassionately approaches each case, prioritizing clear communication and client education. Recognitions such as being listed in Best Lawyers or Super Lawyers can indicate credibility and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes.

Consider the level of personal attention your prospective attorney offers; ascertain whether they will maintain direct contact or delegate responsibilities. Effectively navigating the legal landscape of brain injuries requires not only legal knowledge but also relational skills to develop trust and ensure the most favorable path to recovery.