If you believe you may have a head or brain injury after an accident, your priority should be seeking medical attention. Even symptoms that seem mild, such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, blurred vision, or memory problems, should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. A medical professional may order tests like a CT scan or an MRI to determine whether a traumatic brain injury has occurred. Because symptoms can develop or worsen over time, it’s important to monitor how you feel and follow your doctor’s instructions for rest, recovery, and follow-up care.

While recovering, avoid strenuous physical activity and substances like alcohol or drugs that could interfere with healing. If your symptoms affect your ability to work or attend school, you may need to notify your employer or school so appropriate accommodations can be made. If someone else’s negligence caused the injury, you may also want to speak with a personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help evaluate your situation and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

When a traumatic brain injury occurs because of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, several different parties may be legally responsible depending on how the injury happened and who had a duty to prevent harm. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Negligent drivers and vehicle owners: In car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, or pedestrian accidents
• Property owners and businesses: For unsafe conditions such as wet floors, poor lighting, unsafe stairs, or falling objects
• Employers and other companies: When unsafe workplace conditions, defective equipment, or third-party negligence contribute to the injury
• Sports organizations and schools: If athletes are not properly protected from concussions or are allowed to return to play too soon
• Manufacturers of defective products: Such as faulty helmets, airbags, seatbelts, safety gear, or medical devices
• Medical professionals and hospitals: In cases involving surgical mistakes, delayed diagnosis, or other medical errors
• Landlords and property managers: For unsafe living conditions that lead to head injuries
• Perpetrators of violence or assault: And in some cases, businesses that failed to provide adequate security
• Government entities or municipalities: If hazardous public property, defective traffic signals, or other unsafe public conditions played a role
• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities: When falls, neglect, or abuse cause brain injuries

If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care. Morgan & Morgan’s brain injury attorneys can investigate the circumstances of the injury, identify who may be liable, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to recover.

The amount of time you have to file a personal injury claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state and the specifics of your case. However, some exceptions may apply, such as in cases involving minors, government entities, or when the injury wasn’t discovered right away.

It's important to file your claim as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights. Failing to file within the statute of limitations could result in your case being dismissed, meaning you may lose the opportunity to recover compensation for your injuries.

Since deadlines can vary by state and situation, it's best to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the incident to understand the specific timeline for your case. A Morgan & Morgan brain injury attorney can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Yes. It is still possible to file a claim if symptoms of a traumatic brain injury appear weeks or even months after an accident. TBIs often have delayed symptoms, and many people do not immediately realize the extent of their injury. However, your ability to pursue compensation may depend on several factors, including the statute of limitations in your state, when the injury was discovered, and whether medical records link your symptoms to the accident.

Even if you did not seek treatment right away, a doctor may still be able to evaluate your symptoms and determine whether they are related to the incident. Medical documentation, expert evaluations, and other evidence can help establish the connection between the accident and your injury. Because insurance companies may challenge delayed claims, speaking with an experienced attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and that the necessary evidence is gathered to support your case.

Choosing the right legal team can make a meaningful difference when you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious injury. Morgan & Morgan is the largest personal injury law firm in the country, with more than 1,000 attorneys nationwide and over 35 years of experience handling complex injury cases. Our firm has recovered more than $30 billion for clients, and we bring those resources, knowledge, and experience to every case we handle.

Morgan & Morgan works on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront fees or costs to get started. In fact, the Fee Is Free™, so you only pay if we successfully recover compensation in your case. If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury and believe someone else may be responsible, contacting an experienced attorney can help you better understand your legal options and next steps. 

Don’t bear the burden of your injuries on your own because of someone else’s negligence. Contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.