After a traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs in a car accident or slip-and-fall incident, hiring the right attorney is one of the most critical decisions you can make. While any personal injury attorney can handle a car accident case or a slip-and-fall accident case, a TBI is a complex injury with devastating, lasting consequences. For victims in Kansas or Missouri and their families, finding a lawyer with the right qualities is paramount to securing the compensation needed for long-term care. The stakes in TBI cases are quite high, and a qualified attorney can make all the difference.
Below is what to look for when hiring a Kansas or Missouri TBI lawyer.
1. Specialized Expertise in TBI Cases
The first quality to look for in an attorney is experience handling brain injury cases. Many personal injury attorneys handle a wide range of cases involving several types of injuries. But a traumatic brain injury is not a typical injury. TBI cases often require a deep understanding of the toll such an injury takes on a person, expert testimony, and extensive medical evidence. Look for a lawyer who explicitly mentions TBI as their practice area or part of their practice area.
Before settling for an attorney, ask about the number of TBI cases they have handled in the last few years and their success rate in cases similar to yours. While an attorney’s track record does not automatically indicate future results, a strong track record matters when it comes to negotiating with insurance companies or representing your case in court.
2. Deep Understanding of State Laws
Each state has different laws that affect personal injury and TBI cases. Navigating a Kansas or Missouri TBI case requires an attorney who is familiar with the state’s specific laws. The law governing statute of limitations, damages, and comparative negligence can vary from state to state and have a major impact on your case. An attorney who understands these rules can guide you on how they can impact your case.
3. Access to Experts
To prove your TBI case, you will most likely need experts. Experts can interpret medical records, testify about the severity of the injury, long-term effects, future care needs, and help establish the direct link between the accident and the injury. The right TBI lawyer should have access to a network of experts such as neurologists, neuropsychologists, life care planners, and rehabilitation experts.
4. Compassion
A traumatic brain injury can significantly affect not just the victim but also the victim’s family. The right attorney is the one who takes time to understand your situation and the challenges you and your family are facing. The attorney you choose should treat you with patience and compassion.
5. Resources
Pursuing TBI cases can be costly. These cases require detailed investigations, experts, and, sometimes, several court proceedings. Ensure the law firm you choose has the financial resources and support staff to handle lengthy and complex cases.
6. Trial Experience
While most TBI cases are settled outside of court through negotiation, there is a chance your case might have to go to court. Therefore, apart from choosing an attorney who is a skilled negotiator, you should choose someone with experience litigating cases. Your attorney should be ready to take your case to trial if necessary.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you or a loved one has sustained a traumatic brain injury, contact our experienced brain injury counsel at Griggs Injury Law to schedule a consultation.
