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Personal Injury

Recognizing the Signs of Traumatic Brain Injuries after an Accident

By Car Accidents, Personal Injury

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it is crucial to be aware of the signs of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can have long-term consequences and may significantly impact a person’s life. Identifying the signs early on is vital for receiving appropriate medical treatment and maximizing the chances of recovery. Some of the signs of TBIs after an accident include:

  1. Headaches:

    One common symptom of a traumatic brain injury is persistent or worsening headaches. These headaches may be accompanied by nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to light or noise. If you or someone you know experiences severe or prolonged headaches following an accident, it’s important to seek medical attention.

  2. Loss of consciousness:

    Losing consciousness is a clear indicator of a TBI. However, it is crucial to note that not all brain injuries result in a loss of consciousness. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident and experienced any period of unconsciousness, no matter how brief, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional.

  3. Confusion and disorientation:

    Following an accident, victims may experience confusion and disorientation. They may struggle to recall events leading up to the accident, feel disoriented in time and place, or have difficulty concentrating or making decisions. These cognitive impairments can be signs of a TBI and should not be ignored.

  4. Memory problems:

    Memory loss is another potential sign of a traumatic brain injury. Victims may have trouble remembering events leading up to or following the accident. Some may experience difficulty forming new memories or have gaps in their memory. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory problems after an accident, it is imperative to seek medical attention promptly.

  5. Changes in mood or behavior:

    TBIs can also cause significant changes in a person’s mood or behavior. Victims may become irritable, anxious, or easily agitated. They may display sudden outbursts of anger or exhibit uncharacteristic behaviors. These emotional and behavioral changes are often indicators of underlying brain injuries.

  6. Sensory changes:

    If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident and experiences sensory changes, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, or a bad taste in the mouth, it may indicate a traumatic brain injury. Any alteration in sensory perception following an accident should be evaluated by a medical professional.

  7. Sleep disturbances:

    Traumatic brain injuries can disrupt normal sleep patterns. Victims may struggle with insomnia or find themselves sleeping excessively. If you or someone you know is experiencing significant changes in sleep patterns after an accident, it’s important to bring it to the attention of a healthcare provider.

Recognizing the signs of traumatic brain injuries after an accident is critical for your well-being. If you suspect you or a loved one has suffered a TBI, promptly seeking medical attention is crucial. We encourage you to connect with our team to ensure you receive the necessary legal guidance and support to protect your rights and receive fair compensation for your injuries. Seeking proper medical care and legal representation can make a substantial difference in your recovery and future well-being after an accident.

 

Social Media

The Impact Social Media Can Have on Your Personal Injury Case

By Personal Injury

In today’s digital age, it’s no secret that social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. However, many people fail to realize that what they post on platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram can significantly impact various aspects of their lives, including legal matters. If you’re currently involved in a personal injury case in Sarasota, Florida, it’s crucial to understand how social media can impact the outcome of your case. Courts and attorneys alike have the right to use discovery of social media information when relevance is proven, and the information is obtained in an ethical manner.

  1. Be aware of your online presence:

    Insurance companies and defense attorneys often scour social media platforms for evidence that could be used against you. Even innocent posts or pictures can be easily misconstrued and used to cast doubt on the severity of your injuries or the truthfulness of your claims. Remember, what you share online is not contextually understood by strangers who may be reviewing your case.

  2. Privacy settings aren’t foolproof:

    While adjusting your privacy settings can help limit who can see your posts, it does not guarantee complete protection. Defense attorneys may seek access to your social media content during the discovery process and use any public or shared content against you in court. Always assume that anything posted online can potentially be used against you.

  3. Avoid discussing your case online:

    As a general rule of thumb, refrain from discussing your personal injury case on social media. Sharing specific details, updates, or frustrations about your case could jeopardize your settlement negotiations or impact any potential court proceedings. What seems like an innocent vent may be twisted and used against you later.

  4. Think before posting:

    Before pressing that share button, consider how your content could be perceived within the context of your personal injury case. Avoid posting pictures or videos that could contradict your claims. This includes engaging in physical activities that are contrary to the extent of your reported injuries.

Our world is more interconnected than ever, and social media can have significant implications on your personal injury case. It’s essential to be mindful of your online presence throughout the entirety of your case to protect your interests and ensure a fair outcome. Consult with us, and we will guide you on the best practices regarding social media usage during this sensitive time. We can help to create a pathway for your specific case.

A silhouette of a woman looking upset

What is a Consortium Claim?

By Law, Personal Injury

What is a consortium claim?

A consortium claim is a type of personal injury claim that allows a spouse or other close family member to recover damages for the loss of companionship, care, and assistance caused by the injury or death of their loved one. The term “consortium” refers to the benefits of marriage, such as companionship, love, and support.

Spouses most commonly bring loss of consortium claims, but claims may also be brought by other close family members, such as parents, children, or siblings. To recover damages for loss of consortium, the claimant must show that the injury or death of their loved one has caused significant disruption to their marital or family relationship.

Damages

The damages that can be awarded for loss of consortium vary from state to state, but they typically include compensation for the following:

  • The loss of companionship, love, and affection
  • The loss of sexual relations
  • The loss of household services
  • The cost of hiring care providers
  • The emotional distress caused by the injury or death

The amount of damages a claimant is awarded for loss of consortium depends on the specific facts of their case. Ultimately, the more severe the injury or death, the higher the damages award will be.

Situations

Some examples of situations warranting a loss of consortium claim include:

  • A spouse experiencing an injury during a car accident. They can no longer provide their partner with the same level of care and support.
  • A parent dying in a workplace accident, leaving their spouse to raise their children alone.
  • A child experiencing an injury in a schoolyard accident. They can no longer participate in activities that they used to enjoy with their parents.

If you have been injured in an accident, and your spouse or other close family member has suffered a loss of consortium as a result, contact my office today to discuss your legal options.