Understanding Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries

Brain and spinal cord injuries are among the most serious types of injuries a person can suffer. These injuries can permanently affect movement, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.

Victims and families often face overwhelming medical costs, emotional strain, and long-term care needs. In many cases, rehabilitation and home care are required for years or even a lifetime, with costs reaching hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars.

Because of the complexity of these cases, it is critical to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer as early as possible.

Common Causes of Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries

These injuries are typically caused by serious accidents involving negligence. Common causes include:

• car accidents
• truck accidents
• motorcycle accidents
• slip and fall accidents
• workplace incidents and workers’ compensation claims

Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can vary widely in severity. Common types include:

• Closed brain injuries
• Penetrating brain injuries
• Diffuse axonal injuries

Secondary complications may develop over time, and insurance companies may attempt to use these to reduce liability.

These cases are often handled as brain injury claims.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Long-Term Effects

Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis and long-term medical complications.

• Quadriplegia – Loss of function in the arms and legs
• Paraplegia – Loss of function in the lower body

Injuries may be complete or incomplete and often result in chronic pain, respiratory issues, and loss of independence.

These cases are commonly pursued as spinal cord injury cases.

The Cost of Catastrophic Injuries

Brain and spinal cord injuries are considered catastrophic injuries because of their long-term financial impact.

Typical costs include:

• Lifetime care for traumatic brain injuries: $600,000 to $2 million
• First-year spinal cord injury costs: $350,000 to over $1 million
• Ongoing annual care: $40,000 to $200,000

Who May Be Liable?

Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be responsible:

• Negligent drivers
• Employers or contractors
• Property owners in premises liability cases
• Manufacturers of defective products

What to Do After a Brain or Spinal Cord Injury

1. Seek immediate medical attention
2. Follow all treatment plans
3. Avoid speaking with insurance companies alone
4. Do not accept early settlement offers
5. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term care and home modifications

In fatal cases, families may pursue a wrongful death claim.

Louisiana Laws and Deadlines

Louisiana law generally gives injury victims two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.

The state also follows a comparative fault system, meaning compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault.

How Brandt & Sherman Can Help

At Brandt & Sherman, we understand how devastating these injuries can be. Our team works to investigate the accident, identify responsible parties, and fight for the full value of your claim.

Contact a Lafayette Brain & Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain or spinal cord injury, do not wait to get legal help.

Contact Brandt & Sherman today through their contact page for a free consultation. Let our team handle the legal process while you focus on recovery.