Louisiana Brain Injury Attorneys

Trial-Winning TBI Lawyers Serving All of Louisiana

Any injury to the head is potentially serious. However, injuries severe enough to be labeled as traumatic have lifelong repercussions. When someone experiences a traumatic brain injury (TBI) because of another person’s negligence, those repercussions must be addressed in court. Otherwise, TBI survivors will suffer the injury twice—once with medical repercussions, and again as a result of social and financial repercussions.

No one deserves to have their quality of life impaired by another's carelessness.

The Louisiana TBI attorneys from Clayton, Frugé & Ward make sure the people responsible for our client's harm are held accountable for what they’ve ruined. Our team can help build a strong case that outlines how the victim was physically, mentally, and financially impaired by their injuries. If we win, it ensures that the plaintiff recovers everything they’ve lost, including the lifelong cost of living with a brain injury. With years of experience in navigating Louisiana's legal system, we bring a combination of local insight and professional expertise to every case, focusing on achieving justice and appropriate compensation for our clients. Our comprehensive approach involves working with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial analysts to thoroughly prepare for each legal challenge we encounter.

If you or a loved one have experienced a TBI, call our Louisiana brain injury attorneys at (225) 209-9943.

Physical & Cognitive Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms

One of the most frightening aspects of brain injuries is that they are not always visible. Sometimes force to the head is just strong enough to cause damage internally without any initial physical signs. Other traumas to the head can cause penetrating injuries that severely damage bone, skin, muscle, and brain tissue. Brain injuries are caused by various events, such as falls from heights, car accidents, and other events that exert sudden force on the head. 

The physical symptoms of brain injuries include the following:

The mental symptoms of brain injuries include:

The recovery process differs for each person depending on the severity of their injuries. 

While full recovery is possible, those who are less fortunate face months of recovery and a lifetime of adjustment to the damage caused by their brain injury. Nearly every traumatic brain injury requires a team of medical professionals who work to provide rehabilitation services. Medical treatment is often lengthy, intensive, and expensive. Collaborating with leading neurologists and rehabilitation centers, we ensure our clients receive comprehensive care that targets both immediate recovery and long-term well-being. This approach not only enhances recovery outcomes but also strengthens our arguments for securing the necessary compensation.

Long-Term Effects of Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have profound and lasting impacts on survivors, affecting their physical health, cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. These long-term effects can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury, the area of the brain affected, and the individual's response to treatment and rehabilitation. Understanding these potential repercussions is crucial for TBI survivors and their families as they navigate the road to recovery. Additionally, addressing the emotional facets of TBIs is essential, as they can lead to chronic mental health conditions requiring ongoing psychological support. Our team advocates for a holistic approach, encouraging families to tap into local resources like support groups, counseling services, and therapeutic programs offered across Louisiana.

Physical Impairments

Many TBI survivors experience difficulties with movement and coordination. This can include problems with balance, walking, or even performing everyday tasks. In severe cases, survivors may require the use of mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. Persistent headaches, neck pain, and muscle stiffness are common in TBI survivors. These chronic pain conditions can significantly impact an individual's ability to work and engage in daily activities. Some TBI survivors develop post-traumatic epilepsy, a condition characterized by recurrent seizures. This can require long-term medication management and regular monitoring by healthcare professionals. By emphasizing the necessity for adaptive devices and physical therapy, we aim to enhance life quality and shed light on these critical recovery needs within legal settlements.

Cognitive Deficits

Memory problems are a frequent consequence of TBIs. Survivors may struggle with short-term memory, making it difficult to remember recent events or conversations. In some cases, long-term memory can also be affected. TBIs can impair an individual's ability to focus and concentrate. This can make it challenging to complete tasks, follow instructions, or engage in conversations. Skills such as planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making are often compromised in TBI survivors. These deficits can impact personal and professional life, making it difficult to manage daily responsibilities. Our legal strategy may incorporate expert testimony from neuropsychologists and other professionals to accurately demonstrate these cognitive challenges, ensuring they are recognized in court proceedings and compensation claims.

Emotional & Behavioral Changes

Emotional instability is a common issue for TBI survivors. They may experience sudden and intense mood swings, ranging from irritability and anger to sadness and frustration. The psychological impact of a TBI can lead to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. The challenges of adjusting to life after a brain injury can exacerbate these issues. Some individuals may experience significant changes in personality after a TBI. Loved ones may notice differences in behavior, social interactions, and overall demeanor. It is critical to include these emotional and behavioral changes in any legal discourse, as they can profoundly affect the fabric of everyday life and interpersonal relationships, a factor that our attorneys passionately advocate for.

Impact on Daily Life & Relationships

The cognitive and physical impairments caused by a TBI can make it difficult to return to work. Many survivors may need to switch careers or adjust their work responsibilities to accommodate their new limitations. TBIs can strain relationships with family and friends. The survivor's behavioral changes and the need for ongoing care can create stress and tension within personal relationships. The cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care can be overwhelming. Many TBI survivors face significant financial challenges, especially if they are unable to return to work. Recognizing these challenges, our legal team prioritizes securing compensation that considers the comprehensive financial repercussions of TBIs, factoring in both immediate needs and future uncertainties.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we understand the far-reaching consequences of traumatic brain injuries. Our Louisiana brain injury attorneys are committed to helping survivors and their families secure the compensation they need to address these long-term effects. We work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and ensure our clients receive the support necessary for their recovery and adjustment to life after a TBI. By aligning our efforts with multidisciplinary experts, we present cohesive and compelling arguments that balance legal skill with compassion, fulfilling our role not just as lawyers but as advocates for life-altering change.

Understanding Louisiana's Brain Injury Laws

In Louisiana, brain injury cases are governed by state-specific laws that align with general principles of personal injury law but offer unique considerations given the complex nature of TBIs. One important aspect is the statute of limitations, which under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492, provides a one-year period from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failure to act within this period typically results in losing the right to pursue legal action, making it crucial to secure legal counsel promptly. Our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward is skilled at navigating these legal intricacies, ensuring that every procedural aspect is meticulously addressed to protect your right to compensation.

Additionally, understanding comparative fault in Louisiana is important. The state adheres to a pure comparative fault rule, which means that even if a victim is partially responsible for the incident leading to their TBI, they can still recover damages. However, the compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. This nuanced law requires diligent analysis and evidence collection to minimize any wrongful attribution of blame. Our legal experience enables us to build compelling arguments that accurately reflect the events and maximize the potential recovery for our clients.

Local Resources & Support for TBI Survivors

Access to robust support networks and local resources can significantly improve outcomes for TBI survivors in Louisiana. Several organizations offer invaluable assistance, including the Brain Injury Association of Louisiana, which provides education, advocacy, and support services tailored to the needs of TBI survivors and their families. Engaging with these resources can enhance knowledge and provide emotional support during challenging times. 

Additionally, local hospitals and rehabilitation centers in cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge are equipped with specialized departments for brain injury treatment. Facilities such as Touro Rehabilitation Center in New Orleans have dedicated TBI programs that focus on personalized treatment plans, incorporating physical, occupational, and cognitive therapies. 

Seek Compensation with Our Louisiana TBI Attorneys

Brain injuries cause an undue amount of financial and medical stress. When the actions of another have caused the injury, they must be held accountable. An experienced Louisiana personal injury attorney can seek to recover the financial losses from the appropriate parties. Whether it is an employer, property owner, or another—everyone needs to be held responsible for negligence. 

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our Louisiana brain injury lawyers have helped our clients win over $1 billion. We’ve helped people of all kinds rebuild their lives after life-changing accidents, advocating for them at every step so they could physically, mentally, and financially recover. If you want to know how we could help, call us for a free consultation. Our personalized approach revolves around understanding each client's unique circumstances, ensuring that the solutions we provide are as personal as they are expert-driven.

Call our Louisiana brain injury attorneys for a free consultation at (225) 209-9943.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Brain Injury Accident?

The immediate aftermath of a brain injury accident requires careful and decisive action. First, seek urgent medical attention, regardless of perceived severity, as symptoms may not immediately manifest. Documenting the injury with healthcare professionals can also play a pivotal role in legal proceedings. Next, gather and preserve any available evidence from the accident scene, including photographs and witness statements. This information is crucial for your attorney in building a solid foundation for your case. Engage a Louisiana brain injury attorney promptly to ensure that your rights are protected and that insightful legal strategies can be developed from the outset. Lastly, avoid signing any documents or making statements to insurance companies without prior legal consultation to prevent jeopardizing your claim's integrity.

What Compensation Might Be Available for TBI Survivors?

Compensation for TBI survivors is designed to address both immediate and long-term needs. Typical recoverable damages include medical expenses, which encompass initial treatment costs and potential ongoing rehabilitation and therapy. Additionally, lost wages and diminished earning capacity are considered if the injury affects the ability to maintain employment. Emotional distress and loss of life's enjoyment are also quantifiable damages within personal injury lawsuits. Our role at Clayton, Frugé & Ward is to meticulously assess each component, engaging with experts as needed to validate claims and substantiate the magnitude of damages, aiming for a settlement that truly reflects the needs and losses experienced by our clients.

What Role Do Medical Experts Play in TBI Lawsuits?

Medical experts play a pivotal role in brain injury lawsuits by providing critical insights into the nature and extent of the injuries sustained. Their evaluation is used to establish a clear causal link between the accident and the injuries, as well as to project the anticipated long-term effects and needed care. This expert testimony is vital in presenting a compelling case in court, as it explains complex medical conditions in terms that are understandable to a jury. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we collaborate with medical experts to enhance our legal strategies, ensuring that our clients' medical narratives are thoroughly and accurately conveyed during proceedings.