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Traumatic Brain Injury Overview

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury in OKC

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of catastrophic injury that occurs when a person experiences a direct blow to the head, a blow to the body, or a sudden change in movement (such as whiplash caused by an auto accident). A TBI can have long-lasting effects on a victim's life, leading to headaches, memory loss, personality changes, sleep disorders, seizures, difficulty concentrating, light sensitivity, and more. In some cases, injuries of this nature may even result in coma or death.

What Are Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries?

Common causes of TBI include:

  • Falls: Slips and falls, falls from heights, or tripping accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries, especially among young children and older adults.
  • Motor vehicle accidents: Car, motorcycle, and truck collisions are common causes of traumatic brain injuries due to the forceful impact and sudden change in motion.
  • Sports injuries: Contact sports such as football, soccer, boxing, and hockey can lead to head injuries and concussions.
  • Violence: Physical assaults, gunshot wounds, and domestic violence can cause traumatic brain injuries.
  • Bicycle accidents: Cyclists involved in accidents with motor vehicles or falling off their bikes can suffer head trauma.
  • Pedestrian accidents: Pedestrians struck by motor vehicles can experience significant head injuries.
  • Workplace accidents: Construction sites, factories, and other industrial settings pose risks for head injuries due to falling objects, machinery accidents, or falls from heights.
  • Explosions and blasts: Military personnel and first responders are at risk for traumatic brain injuries caused by explosions or blasts in combat zones or during training exercises.
  • Recreational accidents: Injuries sustained during recreational activities like skiing, snowboarding, or horseback riding can result in head trauma.
  • Child abuse: Shaken baby syndrome or other forms of child abuse can lead to severe brain injuries in infants and young children.
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3 Degrees of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries are typically classified into three degrees based on their severity, each with different symptoms, treatment needs, and long-term outcomes. Understanding these categories can help clarify the seriousness of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and guide appropriate medical and legal responses.

The 3 degrees of brain injuries are:

  • Mild TBI (Concussion): Often caused by a blow or jolt to the head, symptoms may include headache, dizziness, confusion, or brief loss of consciousness. Most people recover fully, though repeated mild TBIs can have lasting effects.
  • Moderate TBI: This level may involve a loss of consciousness lasting from several minutes to hours, along with physical, cognitive, or behavioral impairments. Treatment often includes hospitalization and rehabilitation.
  • Severe TBI: Characterized by prolonged unconsciousness or coma, severe TBIs can lead to permanent brain damage. Victims may require long-term care, and the impact on daily functioning is often profound.
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What Are the Symptoms of a TBI?

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause a wide range of symptoms that vary depending on the severity of the injury. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for getting proper medical care and protecting your long-term health.

Common symptoms of a TBI include:

  • Headaches or migraines
  • Dizziness or loss of balance
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Memory problems or amnesia
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Mood changes, such as irritability or depression
  • Blurred vision or ringing in the ears
  • Loss of consciousness (in more severe cases)

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention promptly and consult with a trusted attorney to understand your rights.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Traumatic Brain Injury Case in OKC?

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote in Oklahoma City, we understand the life-altering impact of TBIs and fight to recover full damages for your physical, emotional, and financial losses.

Damages in a TBI case may include:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Rehabilitation and long-term care costs
  • Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Our team is here to help you pursue justice and secure the support you need to move forward.

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How Do You Prove Negligence in a TBI Case?

A lawsuit involving a traumatic brain injury will address the incident that caused the injury. This may be a car accident, pedestrian accident, slip and fall, motorcycle accident, bicycle accident, or any other situation that led to head trauma.

To recover maximum financial compensation for an injury of this magnitude, you will need to prove that another person or entity was responsible for causing the injury. For example, if you were involved in a car accident, your attorney would need to prove that another driver was to blame or that some other party was at fault, such as the manufacturer of a defective auto part.

In addition to proving the other party's liability, your traumatic brain injury lawyer in Oklahoma City will also need to establish the value of your claim. This includes all medical care, lost earnings, future medical expenses, and other economic and non-economic damages associated with the incident and your traumatic brain injury.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Brain Injury Claim in Oklahoma?

The statute of limitations sets the deadline for filing a brain injury claim, which varies by state and case type. In Oklahoma, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The Law Offices of Stipe & Belote can help ensure your claim is filed on time and protect your rights throughout the process.

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Seeking Legal Assistance From Experienced Attorneys

The process of pursuing compensation for a traumatic brain injury can be complex and challenging. It requires not only proving the other party's liability but also accurately assessing the value of your claim to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. This is where the expertise of an experienced personal injury attorney becomes invaluable.

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Why Choose the Experienced Oklahoma City TBI Attorneys at Stipe & Belote?

With more than 50 years of combined legal experience, the personal injury attorneys in Oklahoma City at the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote have obtained numerous million-dollar settlements and verdicts for serious injury cases throughout Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas. Clients come to our firm during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our team is committed to being accessible, responsive, and supportive, providing personal attention and guidance every step of the way. We treat our clients like family—because trust, communication, and care matter just as much as results. Clients choose our legal team for reasons that include:

  • Membership in respected organizations such as the American Bar Association and the Oklahoma Bar Association
  • Recognition including National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Oklahoma Super Lawyer, and Trucking Attorneys Top 10 honors
  • AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest standards of legal ability and ethics
  • Free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your rights and legal options

Our brain injury lawyers in OKC are available to support you, answer your questions, and help you move forward with confidence. Contact the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote today to schedule a free consultation.

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Traumatic Brain Injury FAQs

What legal options are available for individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injuries?

How does the severity of a traumatic brain injury impact the legal process?

What role does insurance coverage play in traumatic brain injury claims?

How does the legal process typically unfold for traumatic brain injury claims?

What is the potential timeline for resolving a traumatic brain injury legal claim?

What resources and support are available to individuals and families affected by traumatic brain injuries?

What legal options are available for individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injuries?

Individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injuries may have legal options to seek compensation for their damages. This can include filing personal injury claims and pursuing workers' compensation benefits depending on the injury's circumstances.

How does the severity of a traumatic brain injury impact the legal process?

The severity of a traumatic brain injury can significantly impact the legal process, as it may necessitate extensive medical evidence, expert testimony, and a thorough evaluation of the long-term impact on the individual's life. This often requires a comprehensive approach to building a solid case and advocating for the full extent of the damages suffered.

What role does insurance coverage play in traumatic brain injury claims?

Insurance coverage plays a critical role in traumatic brain injury claims, as it can provide financial protection for individuals who have sustained life-altering brain injuries. Understanding the complexities of insurance coverage, including the potential for long-term care benefits and disability coverage, is essential for maximizing the benefits available to the injured party.

How does the legal process typically unfold for traumatic brain injury claims?

The legal process for traumatic brain injury claims often involves conducting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the injury, including gathering evidence, assessing liability, and determining the full extent of the damages. Subsequently, negotiations with insurance companies or at-fault parties may occur to reach a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to litigation, potentially culminating in a trial to resolve the matter.

What is the potential timeline for resolving a traumatic brain injury legal claim?

The timeline for resolving a traumatic brain injury legal claim can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of the involved parties to engage in negotiations. While some cases may be resolved through settlement negotiations within a few months, others may require more time, particularly if litigation becomes necessary.

What resources and support are available to individuals and families affected by traumatic brain injuries?

Individuals and families affected by traumatic brain injuries can access a range of resources and support services, including specialized medical care, cognitive rehabilitation programs, mental health support, and legal representation from experienced traumatic brain injury attorneys. These resources are essential for addressing the physical, emotional, and financial impact of traumatic brain injuries and navigating the complexities of the legal process. Rest assured, at Stipe & Belote Personal Injury Law, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us for a consultation today.

Personal Injury Case Types

Catastrophic Injuries Wrongful Death Broken Bones Burn Injuries Paralysis Construction & Industrial Accidents Nursing Home Abuse Birth Injuries Product Liability Dangerous Drugs and Defective Products

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