JACKSONVILLE BRAIN INJURY ATTORNEY

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when an external force, such as a blow, jolt, or penetrating injury, damages the brain. These injuries can result from many different types of accidents, including motor vehicle collisions, falls, sports-related incidents, workplace accidents, and acts of violence. The severity of a TBI can range from a mild concussion to a catastrophic injury that causes permanent impairment or death.

Medical professionals generally categorize traumatic brain injuries into three levels of severity:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): The most common type of brain injury. A person may lose consciousness briefly or remain conscious throughout the event. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, irritability, sensitivity to light or noise, and other issues that may not appear immediately after the injury.
• Moderate TBI: These injuries often involve a longer period of unconsciousness and may cause more significant symptoms, including memory loss, confusion, speech difficulties, and impaired coordination.
• Severe TBI: A severe brain injury can result in extensive or permanent damage. Prolonged unconsciousness or coma is common, and victims may experience substantial cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.

The symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the damage. Common signs include headaches, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, mood changes, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and other neurological symptoms.

In many cases, the effects of a TBI extend far beyond the initial injury. Victims may experience lasting cognitive impairments, mobility limitations, emotional difficulties, and changes in personality or behavior. Treatment typically begins with emergency medical care to stabilize the injury, followed by rehabilitation, therapy, and other supportive services designed to help the individual regain function and adapt to any long-term challenges.

If you believe that you are exhibiting any symptoms following a trauma in Jacksonville, Florida, it’s important to take immediate action to ensure your health and safety. Here’s what you should do:

Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Even if symptoms seem mild or develop later, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. A healthcare professional can assess your condition and order necessary tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to diagnose the injury accurately. Delaying care can result in complications or worsen the injury.

Monitor Your Symptoms

Keep track of any symptoms you experience, including headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, blurred vision, memory problems, or mood changes. Be aware that symptoms may not appear immediately after the accident and could worsen over time.

Rest and Recover

Give your brain time to heal by getting plenty of rest. This includes both physical rest (avoiding activities like exercise) and mental rest (limiting screen time and activities that require focus, like reading or working). 

Follow Up With Your Doctor

Following your initial medical assessment, it is important to follow your doctor's treatment plan and attend any recommended follow-up appointments. Because the effects of a traumatic brain injury can evolve over time, continued medical care can help monitor your progress, address ongoing symptoms, and identify any long-term complications that may develop.

Contact Morgan & Morgan

If the brain injury was the result of an accident that wasn’t your fault, it might be a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer. They can help determine if you are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Morgan & Morgan handles a variety of traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases, advocating for victims who have sustained injuries due to the negligence of others. Here are some common types of TBIs in Jacksonville, Florida:

Concussions (Mild TBI):

The most common type of brain injury, concussions, often result from blows to the head, falls, or accidents like car crashes. While many people recover fully from concussions, some may experience lingering symptoms that affect daily life, such as headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.

Contusions (Bruises to the Brain):

A contusion is a bruise on the brain tissue caused by a blow or impact. It can lead to swelling and bleeding in the brain, requiring prompt medical treatment to prevent further damage.

Coup-Contrecoup Injuries:

This type of injury occurs when the brain is jolted and strikes the inside of the skull at both the point of impact (coup) and on the opposite side (contrecoup). This can lead to widespread brain damage and is common in car accidents or falls.

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI):

DAI occurs when the brain experiences a violent shaking or twisting motion, causing the brain’s nerve fibers (axons) to tear. This type of injury is often seen in high-speed collisions, such as car accidents, and can result in severe, long-term impairment or even coma.

Penetrating Brain Injuries:

These injuries occur when a foreign object, such as metal, glass, or another sharp object, pierces the skull and enters the brain. Penetrating brain injuries can cause extensive damage and may result in long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.

Brain Hemorrhages (Bleeding):

A brain hemorrhage occurs when a blood vessel ruptures within the brain, causing internal bleeding. Because this condition can quickly become life-threatening, immediate medical treatment is often necessary to reduce the risk of serious complications. Brain hemorrhages are commonly associated with severe falls, high-impact collisions, and other significant head trauma.

Subdural Hematoma:

A subdural hematoma is a collection of blood between the brain and its outer covering. It often results from a head injury, and the buildup of blood can increase pressure on the brain, leading to serious complications.

Epidural Hematoma:

This occurs when blood collects between the skull and the outer layer of the brain, typically after a head injury. It can lead to rapid brain swelling and requires immediate surgical intervention to avoid life-threatening consequences.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE):

Although chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is most often linked to repeated head injuries, such as those experienced by athletes and military personnel, it can also develop after a single severe traumatic brain injury. The condition is associated with progressive cognitive decline, memory impairment, mood disturbances, and behavioral changes, and it can currently only be definitively diagnosed after death.

A TBI lawsuit can be filed by various parties, depending on the situation and the individual’s circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of who can file a TBI lawsuit in Jacksonville, Florida:

The TBI Victim (Injured Party)

• Primary claimant: The person who directly suffers the traumatic brain injury as a result of an accident or act of negligence is typically the primary individual who can file a lawsuit. This individual seeks compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with their recovery or long-term care.
• Important note: If the victim is able to do so, they must file the lawsuit within the statute of limitations for personal injury in their jurisdiction, which typically ranges from one to four years, depending on the state.

Family Members (In Cases of Severe Injury or Death)

• Spouse: In cases of severe TBI where the victim cannot file a lawsuit themselves due to physical or cognitive impairments, a spouse may file a lawsuit on their behalf, particularly for claims related to loss of companionship or emotional distress.
• Parents: When a child suffers a traumatic brain injury, a parent or legal guardian may be able to file a lawsuit on the child's behalf. Such a claim may seek compensation for medical expenses, future treatment and care needs, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the injury.
• Children: If a traumatic brain injury results in the victim’s death, surviving children or other eligible family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such a lawsuit may seek compensation for the loss of financial support, funeral and burial expenses, and other damages related to the family’s loss.

Legal Guardians or Conservators

• Guardianship: If the TBI victim is incapacitated and cannot manage their own legal affairs due to the severity of the injury (e.g., being in a coma or having severe cognitive impairments), a legal guardian or conservator may be appointed to file the lawsuit on their behalf.

Estate Representatives

Executor of the estate: In the tragic event that the TBI victim passes away due to their injury, the executor or administrator of the estate may file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased. This is typically done by the person designated in the victim’s will or by the court if no will exists.

Signs and symptoms of a brain injury can vary depending on the severity and type of injury (mild, moderate, or severe). Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others can develop over hours or days. Here are common signs and symptoms to watch for after a head injury:

Physical Symptoms

• Headache: A persistent or severe headache is one of the most common symptoms after a brain injury.
• Nausea or vomiting: Feeling nauseous or vomiting, especially after a blow to the head, could indicate a concussion or more severe injury.
• Dizziness or balance problems: Problems with balance, coordination, or walking, as well as feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness.
• Fatigue or drowsiness: Feeling excessively tired, lethargic, or struggling to stay awake.
• Sensitivity to light or noise: Increased sensitivity to bright lights or loud sounds, often seen with concussions or mild TBIs.
• Blurred vision or double vision: Difficulty seeing clearly or experiencing double vision.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): Hearing ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ears.
• Seizures: In more severe brain injuries, seizures or convulsions may occur.
• Loss of consciousness: A brief or prolonged loss of consciousness after an impact or injury to the head.
• Swelling or tenderness at the injury site: Bruising or swelling around the head, face, or neck area.

Cognitive Symptoms

• Confusion or disorientation: Feeling mentally foggy, disoriented, or unable to focus. This may also involve difficulty recalling important details or events that occurred immediately before or after the injury.
• Memory loss (amnesia): Difficulty remembering things, especially immediately before or after the injury.
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly: Trouble staying focused, thinking through tasks, or processing information.
• Slow thinking or processing: A noticeable delay in response times or difficulty following conversations.

Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms

• Mood swings: Irritability, frustration, or experiencing sudden emotional changes.
• Anxiety or depression: Feelings of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming sadness, which may be a result of the injury or a change in brain function.
• Personality changes: A noticeable shift in behavior, such as becoming more impulsive, withdrawn, or exhibiting uncharacteristic aggression.
• Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much. Some individuals may also experience disturbed sleep cycles.

Severe Symptoms (Emergency Signs)

• Severe headache or worsening pain: If a headache becomes progressively worse, it could signal swelling or bleeding in the brain.
• Loss of consciousness for an extended period: Prolonged unconsciousness, confusion, or a coma after an injury is a serious sign of a severe brain injury.
• Weakness or numbness in limbs: Loss of strength or feeling on one side of the body, or difficulty moving a limb, may indicate nerve damage or brain injury.
• Clear fluids or blood leaking from the nose or ears: This could be a sign of a skull fracture or other severe injury.
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking: Trouble speaking, slurred speech, or difficulty understanding language.

Uncontrolled bleeding or bruising: Profuse bleeding or bruising around the head or face, particularly if accompanied by symptoms of confusion or dizziness.

For young children or infants who cannot express their symptoms, look out for signs like:

• Excessive crying or irritability
• Change in eating or sleeping patterns
• Bulging soft spot (fontanel) on an infant’s head
• Changes in behavior, such as lethargy or less interaction than usual
• Loss of balance or trouble walking

If you or someone else exhibits any of the following signs after a head injury, it's critical to seek immediate medical help:

• Persistent or worsening headaches
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
• Severe confusion or disorientation
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Clear fluid draining from the ears or nose
• Unexplained vomiting or worsening nausea
• Any other unusual or severe symptoms

If you suspect a brain injury, even mild, it's always better to be cautious and consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent long-term complications and improve recovery outcomes.

Traumatic brain injuries can result from a variety of accidents or incidents, typically involving a sudden blow or jolt to the head that causes damage to the brain. Here are some of the common causes of TBIs:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Collisions involving cars, trucks, or motorcycles are a leading cause of TBIs. The impact of a crash can cause the brain to hit the skull or be violently shaken.

Airbag deployment can also be a contributing factor. There can be multiple points of impact to the head during a car accident. For instance, the head can strike the interior of the vehicle and then receive a second blow from the airbag. There may also be an acceleration/deceleration motion of the head (whiplash), followed by airbag deployment that can cause TBI symptoms.

When pedestrians are struck by vehicles, it can lead to serious head injuries, especially if the person is thrown to the ground or strikes their head on the road or vehicle.

Bike riders involved in crashes are also at high risk for TBIs, especially if they are not wearing helmets.

Falls

Falls are a leading cause of TBIs, particularly among the elderly and young children. Falling from a height, such as from ladders, stairs, or playground equipment, can cause the head to be severely struck and can lead to serious brain injury.

Construction workers and others in hazardous jobs are particularly vulnerable to falls from heights or accidents involving machinery.

Sports Injuries

Sports such as football, soccer, hockey, and boxing are high-risk activities for TBIs due to collisions, falls, or being struck in the head with equipment (a ball, puck, or bat).

Injuries can also occur in non-contact sports such as gymnastics, cycling, or skateboarding when the athlete falls or suffers an impact to the head.

Violence and Assaults

Violent crimes, including assaults where the victim is struck on the head or involved in a fight, can cause TBIs. This can include blows with fists, weapons, or other objects.

Penetrating injuries from firearms can lead to severe brain damage and are among the most serious causes of TBI.

Military and Combat Injuries

Military personnel are at risk for TBIs from explosions, landmines, or shrapnel during combat. The shockwave from blasts can cause brain injuries even without direct impact.

Soldiers may also suffer head injuries from blunt force trauma or accidents during training or combat.

Workplace Accidents

In industries where workers are exposed to heavy machinery, tools, and equipment, falls, collisions, or being struck by falling objects can cause serious head injuries.

Medical Malpractice

Errors during surgery, particularly brain or spinal cord procedures, can result in TBIs.

In some cases, medical negligence, such as failing to diagnose a brain injury early, can lead to worsening of the injury and long-term damage.

Domestic Violence

Victims of domestic violence, especially women and children, are at risk for head trauma caused by being struck or beaten. These injuries can cause long-lasting brain damage.

TBIs can occur in a wide variety of settings and situations, often unexpectedly. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a brain injury to prevent complications and improve recovery chances. 

If the injury was caused by the negligence or recklessness of others, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options for compensation.

When a traumatic brain injury occurs due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, various parties may be held legally responsible. Determining liability depends on how the injury happened and who had a duty of care to prevent harm. Below are some of the potentially liable parties in a TBI case:

Negligent Drivers & Vehicle Owners

If a TBI was caused by a car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, or pedestrian accident, the at-fault driver may be held responsible.

Employers of commercial drivers (trucking companies) can also be liable if an employee caused the crash while on the job.

Property Owners & Businesses

If a slip and fall accident or another premises-related injury led to a TBI, the property owner or business may be liable under premises liability laws.

Examples include unsafe stairs, poor lighting, wet floors, and falling objects in stores, restaurants, workplaces, and apartment buildings.

Employers & Companies (Workplace Accidents)

Employers can be responsible for TBIs if unsafe workplace conditions contributed to the injury. In construction and industrial jobs, workers may suffer head injuries due to falling debris, defective machinery, or unsafe scaffolding.

Workers' compensation may cover medical costs and lost wages, but a third-party lawsuit may be possible if negligence from another company (subcontractors, equipment manufacturers) played a role.

Sports Organizations & Schools

Schools, colleges, and professional sports leagues may be liable if coaches, trainers, or organizations fail to protect athletes from concussions or TBIs.

Inadequate safety protocols, failure to provide proper helmets, and allowing players to return to play too soon after a head injury can lead to liability.

Manufacturers of Defective Products

If a faulty helmet, airbag, seatbelt, or other defective product contributed to a brain injury, the manufacturer could be held responsible under product liability laws.

Examples include motor vehicle defects, defective workplace safety gear, and faulty medical devices.

Medical Professionals & Hospitals (Medical Malpractice)

Doctors, nurses, and hospitals can be liable for TBIs caused by medical errors, such as:

• Surgical mistakes affecting the brain.
• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of a brain injury leading to worsening conditions.
• Birth injuries occur when improper delivery techniques result in brain damage to newborns.

Property Managers & Landlords

If a tenant or visitor suffers a TBI due to unsafe living conditions (such as broken staircases, poor lighting, or lack of security leading to an assault), the landlord or property manager could be held responsible.

Perpetrators of Violence & Assault

Individuals who physically assault someone, such as in cases of domestic violence, bar fights, or armed robberies, can be held criminally and civilly liable for causing a TBI.

If the assault occurred on commercial property (a bar or nightclub with inadequate security), the business might also bear some responsibility.

Government Entities & Municipalities

If a traumatic brain injury resulted from unsafe road conditions, malfunctioning traffic signals, or dangerous conditions on public property, the government agency responsible for maintaining that area may be liable. Depending on the circumstances, this could include a city, county, or state entity.

Government agencies may also face liability in certain cases involving law enforcement misconduct or the use of excessive force that results in a head or brain injury.

Nursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilities

Elderly residents can suffer TBIs due to falls, neglect, or physical abuse in nursing homes.

If staff fail to provide proper supervision or safety measures, the facility may be responsible.

If you or a loved one suffered a TBI due to 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 experienced brain injury attorneys can investigate your case, determine liability, and fight for the justice you deserve.

Filing a traumatic brain injury (TBI) lawsuit is a complex process that requires careful preparation, strong evidence, and experienced legal representation. Below is an overview of what to expect when pursuing a claim with Morgan & Morgan.

1. Seek Medical Attention

If you suspect a brain injury, seek medical care immediately. A diagnosis from a medical professional will not only protect your health but also serve as critical evidence in your case. Brain injuries can worsen over time, so early intervention is essential.

2. Contact Morgan & Morgan

An experienced TBI attorney can evaluate your case, determine liability, and discuss potential compensation. Morgan & Morgan offers free case evaluations, and we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay unless we win.

3. Investigation and Evidence Collection

Building a strong case requires gathering key evidence, which may include:

• Medical records and doctors’ opinions on the severity of your injury
• Accident reports, whether from law enforcement, a workplace incident, or other sources
• Witness statements from individuals who saw what happened
• Surveillance footage, photographs, or any available video evidence
• Testimony from experts, such as neurologists or accident reconstruction specialists

4. Filing the Lawsuit

Once there is sufficient evidence, your attorney will file a formal complaint against the responsible party. This legal document outlines how the injury occurred, who is liable, and the damages being sought. After the complaint is filed, the defendant will have a set period to respond.

5. Discovery Process

During discovery, both sides exchange evidence and gather further information. This process may involve:

• Depositions, where witnesses and experts provide sworn testimony
• Interrogatories, which are written questions that the opposing party must answer
• Requests for documents, such as medical records, accident reports, or insurance policies

Discovery allows both parties to assess the strength of the case and may lead to settlement discussions.

6. Settlement Negotiations

Most TBI cases are resolved through settlement rather than trial. The attorneys on both sides will negotiate a potential agreement, often involving the at-fault party’s insurance company. The goal is to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Morgan & Morgan will not accept a low settlement that does not adequately compensate you for your losses.

7. Trial (If Necessary)

If the parties are unable to reach a settlement, the case may move forward to trial. At that stage, a judge or jury will review the evidence, determine whether the defendant is legally responsible, and decide what compensation, if any, should be awarded. During trial, your attorney may present medical records, expert testimony, and other supporting evidence to demonstrate the severity of your injury and the ways it has affected your life.

8. Receiving Compensation

If the case is won at trial or settled beforehand, you will receive compensation for damages such as:

• Medical expenses, including future care needs
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Long-term rehabilitation and disability accommodations
• Loss of enjoyment of life (impairment of daily activities & relationships)
• Punitive damages (for cases involving reckless or intentional harm)

The deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, varies depending on the state where the claim is brought and the facts of the case. Certain circumstances may alter the standard filing deadline, including cases involving minors, claims against government agencies, or situations where the injury was not discovered until a later date.

Taking action promptly is important. If a claim is not filed within the applicable statute of limitations, you may lose the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and related losses.

Because filing deadlines can differ based on the circumstances, it is a good idea to speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the incident. An attorney can review your situation, explain the timeline that applies to your case, and help ensure that all required filings are completed on time.

Yes, you can still file a claim if your symptoms appear weeks or months after the accident. TBIs can have delayed symptoms, and it is not uncommon for victims to experience cognitive, emotional, or physical impairments long after the initial injury. The ability to file a claim will depend on a few key factors:

Statute of Limitations

Each state sets deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits, known as statutes of limitations. The amount of time you have to file a brain injury claim can vary depending on where the injury occurred and the specific circumstances of your case.

In some situations, exceptions may apply, particularly if symptoms were delayed or the injury was not immediately discovered. If you did not realize the full extent of your brain injury right away, an attorney can help you understand how filing deadlines may apply to your case.

Medical Evidence and Documentation

Even if you did not seek medical treatment immediately after the accident, you may still be able to pursue a claim. A healthcare provider can evaluate your condition, diagnose any injuries, and determine whether your symptoms are consistent with the accident. Medical records that track your symptoms, treatment, and recovery can serve as important evidence in supporting your case.

Establishing the Cause of the Injury

An important element of any traumatic brain injury claim is showing that the injury resulted from the accident in question. Although establishing this link can become more difficult over time, medical records, physician evaluations, expert testimony, and other evidence can help demonstrate that the accident was the cause of the injury.

Addressing Insurance Company Disputes

Insurance companies may attempt to argue that your symptoms are unrelated to the accident, particularly when there is a delay between the incident and diagnosis. An experienced attorney can help respond to these challenges by gathering medical documentation, consulting with experts, and presenting evidence that supports the connection between the accident and your injury.

Contact Morgan & Morgan

Morgan & Morgan has experience handling complex brain injury cases, including claims where symptoms may not appear right away. Our legal team can analyze your medical records, work with qualified experts, and investigate the facts surrounding your injury to help assess your case and explain the legal options that may be available to you.

Morgan & Morgan works on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front and only pay if we recover compensation for you. If you have developed symptoms of a brain injury after an accident, do not wait. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to discuss your legal options.

If your loved one is in a coma due to a traumatic brain injury, it is a devastating and challenging situation that requires immediate medical and legal attention. 

A coma is a severe medical condition that often requires extensive and specialized care. Depending on the nature and severity of the brain injury, treatment may include:

• Emergency medical intervention to stabilize the patient and manage brain swelling or other complications.
• Extended hospitalization, often in a neurological intensive care unit (ICU).
• Comprehensive rehabilitation if consciousness is regained, which may include physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation.

If your loved one’s injury resulted from another party’s negligence—such as a motor vehicle accident, workplace incident, medical malpractice, or violent act—you may have the right to pursue a traumatic brain injury claim on their behalf.

If your loved one is in a coma or otherwise unable to manage their own legal affairs, they generally cannot pursue a claim on their own. In these situations, a spouse, parent, legal guardian, or another qualified family member may be able to take legal action on their behalf. If a legal representative has not already been appointed, it may be necessary to seek court approval to act on your loved one’s behalf.

If the injuries ultimately result in your loved one’s death, certain surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. Such a claim may seek compensation for funeral and burial costs, lost financial support, and other damages associated with the family's loss, including emotional suffering.

Most importantly, an experienced legal advocate at Morgan & Morgan in Jacksonville, Florida, can assist you in navigating this complex legal process, fighting for the compensation you need and deserve.

Whether a traumatic brain injury case is resolved through a settlement or proceeds to trial depends on the specific facts of the case, the available evidence, the parties involved, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. While every case is different, most personal injury claims are resolved without going to court.

Settlements: How Many Cases Are Resolved

Many traumatic brain injury claims are settled through negotiations between the injured party’s attorney and the insurance company representing the at-fault party. A settlement can provide compensation without the time, expense, and uncertainty associated with a trial.

Some of the benefits of settling a case include:

• A faster resolution compared to litigation.
• Greater certainty regarding the outcome.
• Reduced stress and disruption for the injured person and their family.

Circumstances That Can Prevent a Settlement

Although settlements are common, an agreement may not always be possible. This can occur when:

• The insurance company refuses to offer compensation that adequately reflects the victim’s losses.
• The parties disagree about who was responsible for the accident.
• The injuries are severe, with significant future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and long-term care needs that are difficult to value.

When a Trial Becomes Necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial. During a trial, both sides have the opportunity to present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments before a judge or jury.

At trial:

• Each side presents evidence supporting its position.
• Attorneys argue issues related to liability and damages.
• A judge or jury determines whether the defendant is responsible and, if so, the amount of compensation that should be awarded.

Reasons a Case May Go to Trial

A trial may become necessary when:

• Settlement offers do not adequately compensate the victim for their losses.
• Liability remains contested, and the defendant denies responsibility.
• The facts of the case require a judge or jury to resolve disputed issues.

If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury, Morgan & Morgan can evaluate your case and discuss the options available. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal rights and potential next steps.

Being partially responsible for the accident that caused your traumatic brain injury does not necessarily prevent you from seeking compensation. Your ability to recover damages, and the amount you may be able to recover, will depend on the laws governing fault and liability in the state where your claim is brought.

The effect of shared fault varies from state to state. In some jurisdictions, any compensation you receive may be reduced according to your percentage of responsibility for the accident. Other states may restrict or bar recovery if you are found to be primarily at fault, and certain laws can affect your ability to recover damages even when fault is shared.

Determining fault typically requires a thorough review of the available evidence, including accident reports, witness accounts, medical records, photographs or video footage, and expert analysis.

Insurance companies often attempt to shift a greater share of fault onto injured individuals in an effort to reduce the amount they pay on a claim. An experienced brain injury attorney can help challenge these allegations, protect your interests, and advocate for a fair assessment of liability.

Even if you believe you were partially responsible for the accident, it’s important to speak with an attorney before assuming you are ineligible for compensation.

No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan in Jacksonville are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation.

Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.

When you hire Morgan & Morgan, you gain access to the resources of America’s Largest Injury Law Firm™. With more than 1,000 attorneys nationwide and over 700,000 clients helped, our firm has the experience and resources to handle complex brain injury cases.

Your case may be supported by a team that can include attorneys, paralegals, case managers, and other legal professionals working together to move your claim forward. You may also have a primary point of contact who can help answer questions and keep you informed throughout the legal process.

We believe keeping clients informed throughout the legal process is important. In most cases, you will communicate regularly with your Case Manager by phone and email, receiving updates and assistance as your case progresses. If you would like to speak directly with your attorney, we can schedule a call to discuss your case, answer questions, and address any concerns you may have.

Morgan & Morgan handles cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no upfront attorney’s fees or litigation costs to get started. The Fee Is Free™, and you owe nothing unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.

Our fee is based on a percentage of the settlement or verdict obtained in your case, aligning our interests with yours and ensuring we are invested in pursuing the strongest possible result.

Brain injury cases can be complex and often involve extensive medical evidence, long-term treatment needs, and significant financial losses. Morgan & Morgan has more than 1,000 attorneys nationwide and has recovered over $30 for clients.

Our attorneys have handled complex injury cases and recognize the profound impact a traumatic brain injury can have on every aspect of a person's life. We work to develop comprehensive claims that reflect both the immediate consequences of the injury and the ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and future needs a victim may face.

Morgan & Morgan handles brain injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front and only pay if we recover compensation for you. If you believe someone else’s negligence caused your injury, contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.