Roanoke Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers
Let Our Firm Help Recover Your Entitled Compensation
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to someone elseās negligence, you understand the devastating impact it can have on your life. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our experienced legal team in Roanoke, VA, is here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. With more than 40 years of legal experience, our Roanoke brain injury attorneys are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury cases involving traumatic brain injuries.
Call (855) 880-8163 now or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we are here to fight for your future.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force causes damage to the brain. This type of injury can result from a blow, jolt, or penetrating object. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe injuries that cause long-term or permanent impairment. The effects of a TBI can be physical, cognitive, and emotional, making it one of the most challenging injuries to recover from.
The severity of a TBI is often categorized as mild, moderate, or severe:
- Mild TBI (Concussion): Temporary symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
- Moderate TBI: Extended loss of consciousness and noticeable cognitive impairments.
- Severe TBI: Prolonged unconsciousness or coma, leading to significant physical and mental disabilities.
Common Types of TBI
There are several types of traumatic brain injuries, including:
- Concussions: Often caused by a direct blow to the head or violent shaking.
- Contusions: Bruising of brain tissue due to an impact.
- Diffuse Axonal Injuries (DAI): Caused by severe rotational or shaking forces, leading to widespread damage.
- Penetrating Injuries: Occur when an object pierces the skull and damages the brain tissue.
- Hematomas: Blood clots within the brain or between the brain and the skull.
Understanding the type and extent of a TBI is critical for diagnosing, treating, and seeking appropriate compensation.
Common Causes of TBI
Traumatic brain injuries can occur in various situations, often as a result of another partyās negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Car Accidents: A leading cause of TBIs, especially in high-impact collisions.
- Slip and Fall Accidents: Particularly common among the elderly and in unsafe premises.
- Sports Injuries: High-contact sports like football or hockey can result in concussions or other TBIs.
- Workplace Accidents: Construction sites and other hazardous workplaces pose significant risks.
- Violence or Assault: Physical altercations or gunshot wounds can lead to severe TBIs.
- Medical Malpractice: Errors during surgery or delayed diagnosis of brain injuries.
Brain Injury Symptoms
The symptoms of a brain injury can vary significantly depending on the part of the brain affected and the severity of the trauma. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Memory loss or confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Changes in vision, hearing, or speech
- Mood swings or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Loss of consciousness
Some symptoms appear immediately, while others may develop days or weeks after the injury. Always seek medical attention after any head trauma.
Long-Term Impact of Brain Injuries
A TBI can affect every aspect of a personās life. Depending on the severity of the damage, long-term complications may include:
- Cognitive impairments, such as difficulties with memory, reasoning, or problem-solving
- Physical disabilities, including paralysis, lack of coordination, or chronic pain
- Emotional and behavioral changes, such as depression, anxiety, aggression, or personality shifts
- Reduced ability to work, sometimes permanently
- Challenges with daily activities, such as driving, communicating, or caring for oneself
Many brain injury survivors require years of therapy, assistive devices, adaptive housing, and ongoing medical care. These costs can be overwhelming without financial support.
The Importance of Early Intervention for TBI
Early intervention in traumatic brain injuries can significantly influence the outcome for the individual. Immediate medical assessment and prompt treatment are essential to mitigate the effects of TBIs, which can include swelling, bleeding, or additional bruising of brain tissue. In Roanoke, emergency services are adequately equipped to handle such urgent care, with Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital providing specialized trauma care. Thus, seeking medical assistance without delay can make a substantial difference in recovery and long-term impacts.
Moreover, early intervention isn't solely about immediate hospital care. It involves quick rehabilitation efforts once the patient's condition stabilizes. Rehabilitative therapies, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, should commence as soon as a doctor advises. These therapies are crucial for helping individuals regain as much of their previous abilities as possible. Initiating a structured treatment plan supports physical recovery and addresses emotional and psychological needs, facilitating a holistic rehabilitation process for TBI survivors.
Compensation Available to the Injured
A successful brain injury claim can provide compensation for the wide-ranging damages you and your family may experience. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses, including hospital care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment
- Future medical care, often essential for severe TBIs
- Lost wages for time missed from work
- Loss of future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Home modifications, mobility devices, or in-home nursing care
Our team at Kalfus & Nachman PC works with medical experts, life care planners, and financial specialists to ensure your damages are fully calculated and documented.
Brain Injury Claim FAQs
How long do I have to file a brain injury claim in Virginia?
In most cases, Virginiaās statute of limitations gives injured victims two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Some exceptions may apply, so itās important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Do I need a lawyer for a brain injury case?
Yes. Brain injury claims are medically complex and often involve high financial damages. Insurance companies frequently fight these cases aggressively, so having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in outcomes.
What if my loved one canāt speak for themselves?
A family member or appointed guardian can file a claim on behalf of someone who is unable to advocate for themselves due to a severe TBI.
How is compensation calculated in a TBI case?
Compensation is based on medical expenses, long-term care needs, lost earning capacity, the severity of the injury, and its impact on daily life. Experts are often involved to ensure accuracy.
What if I was partly at fault?
Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule. If you are found even 1% at fault, you could lose the right to recover compensation. A lawyer can help protect your case and counter unfair fault claims.
Why Hire Kalfus & Nachman PC as Your Brain Injury Lawyer?
With decades of experience handling personal injury cases in Roanoke, VA, Kalfus & Nachman PC is a trusted advocate for victims of traumatic brain injuries. Hereās why clients choose us:
- Proven Track Record: Success in recovering millions for injury victims.
- Client-Centered Approach: Personalized legal strategies tailored to your case.
- Experienced Team: Skilled attorneys with in-depth knowledge of TBI cases.
- Local Expertise: Deep understanding of Roanokeās legal landscape.
Our commitment to clients extends beyond legal representation to involve genuine care and empathy for each individual's challenges. We leverage our long-standing relationships within the community and our comprehensive understanding of local laws to provide attentive and effective legal services. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to securing the best possible future for those we represent.
To request a free case review, contact us today at (855) 880-8163.
How Is Kalfus & Nachman Different?
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You Will Pay No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
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We Have Recovered Millions of Dollars for Our Clients
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Our Attorneys Are Well-Equipped to Fight Insurance Companies
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We Have Successfully Handled Thousands of Cases Since 1979
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We are a Full-Service Firm with Multiple Locations
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Se Habla EspaƱol
We Mean Business
Read Our Recent Case results
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$10.9 Million Traumatic Brain Injury
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$10.5 Million Truck Accident
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$7 Million Auto Accident
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$5.147 Million Truck Accident
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$2.15 Million Premises Liability
Meet Our Team
Tell Them We Mean Business
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Paul R. Hernandez Attorney -
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A.J. Kalfus of Counsel -
Stuart L. Nachman of Counsel