If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) on Long Island due to someone else’s negligence, you need a Long Island TBI lawyer to explain your rights and options for seeking compensation and guide you through the process. At The Perecman Firm, PLLC, we've helped hundreds of people across Long Island and throughout the greater NYC area obtain maximum compensation for their TBI-related losses. Let us be your advocate and support system during this challenging time. You can rely on us for personalized attention to your case and zealous representation to maximize your financial recovery. Contact us today to request a free consultation and learn how we can help.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden, external force damages the brain. This can happen due to a violent blow, jolt to the head, or an object penetrating the skull. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening injuries.
The brain is incredibly complex, and even a seemingly minor injury can have far-reaching consequences. TBIs can affect cognitive function, physical abilities, emotional regulation, and behavior. Recovery can be a long, challenging process, and some individuals may face lifelong effects.
What Are the Symptoms of a TBI?
TBI symptoms can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the injury. Some signs may appear immediately, while others might develop over time. Here’s just a partial list of potential symptoms:- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Difficulty with balance
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Irritability or agitation
- Depression or anxiety
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking frequently during the night
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Dilated pupils
- Clear fluid draining from ears or nose
- Inability to awaken from sleep
- Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
- Loss of coordination
What Are Common Causes of TBIs in Long Island?
Long Island's bustling communities and busy roadways can unfortunately lead to various situations where TBIs occur. Some common causes include:- Car accidents and other motor vehicle accidents
- Slip and fall incidents
- Workplace accidents and construction accidents
- Sports-related injuries
- Bicycle and pedestrian accidents
What Should I Do After Suffering a TBI in Long Island Because of Someone's Negligence?
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to another party's negligence, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Get immediate medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you think the injury is minor, get checked out by a medical professional.
- Document everything: Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and any symptoms you experience. This information can be crucial for your claim.
- Report the incident: Whether it's a car accident, workplace injury, or slip and fall, report it to the appropriate authorities or property owners.
- Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Be cautious with insurance companies: Don't give recorded statements or accept quick settlements without legal advice.
- Keep a journal: Document how the injury affects your daily life, including pain levels, limitations, and emotional struggles.
- Contact a TBI attorney: Reach out to The Perecman Firm, PLLC for guidance on protecting your rights and pursuing compensation.
How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Long Island TBI Claim?
Determining if you have a valid TBI claim can be complex, but generally, you may have a case if:
- Someone else's negligence or intentional act caused the injury.
- You've suffered measurable damages (e.g., medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering).
- New York's three-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims has not passed.
How Can a TBI Attorney Help Me Get Compensation?
A skilled TBI attorney from our firm can assist with all aspects of your TBI claim, including:- Assessing the strength of your claim and identifying all potential sources of compensation.
- Collecting and preserving crucial evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
- Working with medical professionals, life care planners, and economic experts to fully understand and document the impact of your injury.
- Handling all communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel and negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Preparing your case for trial and representing you in court if the at-fault party won’t negotiate a fair settlement.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive from a TBI Claim in New York?
In New York, TBI victims may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:- Medical expenses: Coverage for past and future medical treatments, rehabilitation, therapy, and assistive devices.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to the injury, including future earning capacity if you're unable to return to your previous job.
- Pain and suffering: Monetary awards for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged in the incident that caused your TBI.
- Home modifications: Costs for adapting your living space to accommodate any disability resulting from the TBI.
- Loss of consortium: Compensation for the impact on your relationship with your spouse or partner.
Why Should I Work with The Perecman Firm, PLLC for My TBI Claim?
Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in your TBI claim. Here's why Long Island residents trust The Perecman Firm, PLLC:
- We have more than 40 years of collective experience handling complex TBI cases. We understand the medical and legal intricacies involved.
- Our firm has the financial and professional resources to thoroughly investigate your case, consult top experts, and see your claim through to the end.
- We’ll treat you and your family with the utmost care and respect. You're not just a case number – you're part of our family.
- We've secured numerous multi-million dollar awards for TBI survivors across New York. To date, we’ve recovered more than $500,000,000 in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
- We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we won’t bill you for our services. Instead, we’ll handle all aspects of your claim and accept attorney fees only if we recover compensation for you.
- We can connect you with medical specialists, support groups, and other resources to aid in your recovery.
- Our familiarity with Long Island courts, judges, and local laws gives us a strategic advantage in your case.
- We prioritize open communication and will keep you informed and involved throughout the legal process.
- Our peers in the legal community and insurance companies respect us, which can help in negotiations.
- We're passionate about holding negligent parties accountable and making our communities safer for everyone.
TBI Statistics for New York and Long Island
Understanding the scope of TBI in our area can help put your experience in context:
According to TBI statistics from the New York State Department of Health, TBI is a leading cause of injury-related death and disability in the state.
- Each year, approximately 19,000 New Yorkers are hospitalized with a TBI.
- Falls are the leading cause of TBI-related hospitalizations in New York, accounting for about 47% of cases.
- Motor vehicle crashes are the second leading cause, responsible for about 13% of TBI hospitalizations in the state.
- The economic cost of TBI in New York is estimated to be over $1.9 billion annually, including medical costs and lost productivity.
- The highest rates of TBI hospitalizations in New York are among adults aged 65 and older, followed by young adults aged 20-24.
- Long Island, including Suffolk County and Nassau County, reports around 400 TBIs each year.
Long Island TBI FAQs
Q: How long do I have to file a TBI claim in Long Island?
A: In New York, you have three years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court, seeking damages. However, exceptions exist in cases involving minors or claims against government entities. Consult an attorney as soon as possible so you don't miss any deadlines.
Q: What if I'm partly at fault for the accident that caused my TBI?
A: New York follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you're partly at fault, but the court will reduce your compensation by your percentage of fault.
Q: How much is my Long Island TBI case worth?
A: The value of a TBI case varies greatly depending on factors such as the severity of the injury, long-term prognosis, impact on your ability to work, and the circumstances of the accident. An attorney from our firm can provide a more accurate estimate after thoroughly reviewing your case.
Q: Will my TBI case go to trial?
A: While many TBI cases are settled out of court, some do proceed to trial. Our firm prepares every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring we're ready to fight for you in court if necessary. However, we also strive to negotiate fair settlements when possible to spare you the stress and uncertainty of a trial.
Q: Can I still file a claim if my TBI symptoms didn't appear immediately after the accident?
A: Yes, you can still file a claim if your symptoms develop later. Some TBI symptoms may not be apparent immediately after an accident. It's important to seek medical attention as soon as you notice any symptoms and to consult an attorney about your legal options.
Q: What if the person who caused my TBI doesn't have insurance?
A: If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. These could include filing a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (in car accident cases), pursuing a claim against a third party who may share liability, or in some cases, seeking compensation directly from the at-fault individual's assets.
Get Help from an Experienced Long Island TBI Attorney Today
You've already been through so much. Recovering from a traumatic brain injury is challenging, but you don't have to face it alone. At The Perecman Firm, PLLC, we're committed to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Don't let financial worries add to your stress. Our Long Island personal injury lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explain your options. If we take on your case, you won't owe us any fees unless we win compensation for you.
Your future matters. Your recovery matters. You matter. Let us put our experience, resources, and passion for justice to work for you. Contact The Perecman Firm PLLC today at (516) 268-0130 to request your free consultation. We're here to listen, to understand, and to help.