Tuesday, November 15, 2011

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. TBI can occur when the head suddenly and forcefully hits an object or when an object pierces the skull and enters the brain tissue.   This may occur when a person is involved in an auto accident, experiences a fall or from an act of violence. Symptoms of TBI include but are not limited to the following:
  • Anxiety, nervousness
  • Behavioral changes:
    • difficulty controlling urges (disinhibition)
    • impulsiveness
    • inappropriate laughter
    • irritability
  • Blurry or double vision (diplopia)
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating or thinking
  • Difficulty finding words or understanding the speech of others (aphasia)
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Incoordination of movements
  • Lightheadedness
  • Loss of balance; difficulty walking or sitting
  • Loss of memory
  • Muscle stiffness and/or spasms
If you were involved in an auto accident or a fall and you hit your head resulting in any of the symptoms above, you should contact an experienced attorney immediately.  An experienced attorney can assist you with getting the proper medical care and ensure that your rights are protected.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Motorcycle and Auto Accidents in Upland

What should I do after I have been in an accident?  That is a question that many people face immediately after experiencing such a traumatic event.  The following is a list of things you should know:
1.      If you are injured immediately seek medical treatment, you can go to a local urgent care or the hospital.  
2.      If you have been injured in a motorcycle or auto accident it is in your best interest to contact an experienced attorney immediately. 
3.      If you do not have health insurance, the attorney can refer you to doctors that will give you the medical treatment you need on a “lien” basis. When a doctor goes on a lien, the doctor is agreeing to wait until the case is resolved to be paid.  
4.      DO NOT GIVE ANY STATEMENTS TO THE INSURANCE ADJUSTERS. Do not give a statement even to your own insurance company without first consulting with an experienced attorney.
5.      Take your vehicle to a reliable body shop and get an estimate for the damages.   
6.      Take photographs of your vehicle from every angle before you turn the vehicle over to the body shop.
7.      You are entitled to a rental vehicle. If you do no t receive a rental vehicle you are entitled to loss of use to your vehicle at the daily rental rate comparable to your vehicle.
8.      Keep track of all your paperwork including any medical bills, medical records, letters from the insurance companies, police report documentation and your vehicle appraisal.