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A Personal Injury Lawyer Helps Win Compensation

After an accident that is not your fault, you may be wondering, what is the average payout for a head injury? The average payout for a head injury varies, because compensation depends on many factors such as the severity of the injury, the effects on the victim’s life, the amount of care they will need, and whether the person will be able to function and work again in the future. Some head injuries can cause devastating mental, emotional, and physical effects that affect the victim and their family for life, so payouts in a successful personal injury lawsuit can be very high. Depending on the circumstances, payouts could range from a few thousand dollars for an accident victim who recovers from the head injury after a couple of weeks to a six- or seven-figure payout for someone who is left paralyzed and unable to lead a normal life. Since there are so many head injury types, symptoms, and contributing conditions, it is difficult to calculate the average payout for a head injury. If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury or someone has died due to a head injury caused by someone else’s negligence or fault, you may be able to receive compensation that helps pay for your costs, expenses, and the pain and suffering that result. The amount you will receive will be based on your individual circumstances and the factors surrounding your case, not on some hypothetical average. Your best bet for winning maximum compensation is to contact a personal injury lawyer experienced with head injuries who knows how to get you the best payout possible.

How much is a head injury claim worth?  Many factors go into determining how much your head injury claim is worth. After an accident that results in a head injury, your personal injury lawyer should evaluate your case and approximate what it should be worth and what kind of settlement to go after.  Your attorney will look at factors that include:

Fault: To win your case, your attorney would have to show that another party behaved in a negligent or reckless manner and was at fault for the accident that led to your injuries. Once your attorney can prove fault, they can pursue a claim from that person’s insurance company. Negligence doesn’t have to involve intent. The person at fault probably didn’t intend to injure you, but that fact doesn’t matter in a personal injury case. Proving negligence legally means showing the existence of the following elements:

• The person owed you a duty of care.
• That person failed or ignored that duty.
• This failure caused the accident that injured you.
• You suffered actual damages as a result.

The Extent, Seriousness and Permanence of Your Injuries

There are a wide range of effects caused by head injuries. More minor injuries may be external such as bumps, bruises, and open wounds and may not affect the brain. A traumatic brain injury (TBI), on the other hand, is an injury that affects the brain. It happens when a sudden, external physical assault damages the brain. The Brain Injury Association of America reports that over 1.5 million people face traumatic brain injuries (TBI) every year; at least 50,000 individuals will die from their injury; and approximately 80,000 will face life-long injuries and rehabilitative care. According to Mayo Clinic, a significant TBI can leave the victim unable to speak or interact with family members. The victim may experience a significant reduction in quality of life while undergoing care and rehabilitation efforts to overcome the injury. Debilitating injuries from a TBI can last for weeks, months, or years. Some people never recover fully from a TBI, suffering from memory loss and an inability to concentrate forever. More severe brain damage from head injuries may include catastrophic symptoms that include paralysis, coma, cognitive impairments, and emotional and behavioral changes that might significantly impair personal relationships and quality of life, or even cause death. Someone diagnosed with a severe TBI after an accident that another person caused could receive a large, above-average settlement amount.

Costs and Expenses: Your settlement amount should reflect any medical bills and other costs that include:

• Expenses for ongoing treatment, care, and rehabilitation
• Costs of medications and medical equipment
• Lost wages and future earnings lost because of the lingering effects of your injury
• Funeral costs, if there has been a wrongful death
• Property damaged in the accident.

Emotional and Physical Pain and Suffering: Your settlement amount should reflect any ongoing pain you may have and any long-term reduction in your quality of life.

Whether a Death is Involved: Complications from a TBI could lead to a fatality for the victim. If this occurs, the victim’s family could file a wrongful death lawsuit against the party that caused the injury.

Your Individual Situation and Characteristics: Characteristics such as age, occupation and earning power, family situation, and prior health and medical history may also affect the settlement value. Juries tend to be more sympathetic if an injured person is young and likely to need a lifetime of care.Another factor that determines whether your payout in a head injury lawsuit will be more or less than average is the skill of your lawyer.  Insurance companies are out for profit and have high-powered attorneys working so they can pay out as little as possible. To get the full compensation you deserve, you should find an experienced lawyer who knows how to negotiate and fight for the optimum settlement possible.

What is the Average Payout for a Car Accident Injury?

Head injuries frequently result from car and other vehicle accidents, and, like payouts for head injuries from other accidents, there is a wide range of settlement amounts possible. Victims of car accidents that were caused by another party’s negligence or fault are entitled to compensation that includes coverage for their monetary losses such as such as medical and rehabilitation bills, costs of continuing care, lost wages and future income, and costs of modifying a home or vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair. In addition, you may also receive compensation for non-economic damages that do not have a specific dollar value but negatively affect your life, such as pain and suffering and emotional anguish and anxiety from dealing with the aftermath of the accident. The more serious the head injury, the higher the potential settlement, but the average payout amount depends on the factors already discussed, as well as the insurance coverage and assets of the defendants that can go toward a settlement. In many car accident cases, the insurance company for the defendant will attempt to shift the blame from their client to the victim.  Let your attorney handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies, and have your attorney review any offers from insurance companies that you are tempted to accept. By accepting any offer, you will be forfeiting your right to ask for additional compensation should your injuries worsen or your losses exceed the amount you are offered.

Personal Injury Cases after a Head Injury

The Washington State Legislature sets the time limit for filing a personal injury claim at three years from the date of the accident. However, the State of Washington does not limit the amount you can request after your head injury. Because there’s no maximum amount, our attorneys can adjust the amount we request from the insurance company based on the severity of your injuries. The experienced head injury attorneys at Strong Law have the ability to draw upon what we’ve learned in past cases to ensure that we ask for the fairest possible amount for your injuries. Rather than focusing on what is the average payout for a head injury, our team focuses on your individual case and what you deserve to truly compensate you for your injuries.

How Our Lawyers Determine What Amount to Request

Our head injury attorneys start the process of determining what amount to request by studying your case. We focus on what makes your case unique.  These specific items in your case  help us figure out what amount would represent a fair settlement for you. Just because we settled another case involving a head injury for a certain amount doesn’t mean your case will settle for the same amount. Each case is different. Although we may study results from similar past cases, we don’t limit ourselves by what happened in those cases. We focus on your case and on your needs for your life going forward.

Call Our Brain Injury Lawyers to Protect Your Rights

At Strong Law, our legal team understands the complexities that are part of a TBI lawsuit. We know how to study the facts in the case to prove exactly what happened in your accident. We will interview your doctors to determine what kind of future you’re facing. You deserve to receive respectful and professional treatment from all parties involved. Count on our brain injury lawyers to fight tirelessly to help you receive the award you deserve. We’ve won seven-figure settlements for some of our past clients, as well as some lesser settlements for less serious injuries. Do not delay, as head injury victims have limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident. The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit is two years in Washington. With some rare exceptions, the courts will refuse to hear your case if you fail to file by this deadline.

Strong Law operates offices in Tacoma, Portland, and Salt Lake City. For a free review of your head injury case or of any other personal injury case, contact us as soon as possible at 206-210-1399.

Car accidents are the top cause of death among adolescents and young adults who suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported. Any kind of trauma to the head, including a bump, jolt, or blow, or any object that penetrates the skull, can result in brain damage. Mild TBIs might have lasting effects, whereas severe TBIs can cause death or serious disability. Every 23 seconds, somebody in the United States suffers a traumatic brain injury (TBI); annually, around 50,000 of those people die as a result. Further studies have found that vehicular accidents account for at least half of all traumatic brain and head injuries. Alarmingly high car accident numbers persist, despite the widespread use of safety equipment like seatbelts, child safety seats, and airbags. If you have been in an accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury, it is imperative that you get in contact with a personal injury attorney about your options. Justice is important to us, and we want to help you! Continue reading to find out more.

What Choices Do People with a TBI Have?

Healthcare advocates are worried that the government won’t provide enough money for the services that people with TBI require. Very few families in the U.S. can afford long-term care for a family member who has suffered a traumatic brain injury unless they win an injury claim. Although workers’ compensation benefits may be available to those who suffer a TBI due to an on-the-job accident, these benefits seldom cover the total cost of the long-term care and therapy that most TBI survivors need. Our brain injury attorneys can review the circumstances behind a TBI victim’s injury claim and advise whether or not legal action should be taken. Your attorney may consult with doctors and accident re-enactors to gather the necessary evidence.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

From a medical perspective, knowing the frequency and root causes of TBIs can aid in the creation of preventative strategies, the selection of appropriate research and educational methods, and the growth of understanding of the best ways to assist those who have been affected by such injuries. All the relevant information will aid your attorney in proving your case and securing the highest possible settlement for you. Because the aftereffects of a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) can last for years or even decades, this is crucial if you are still experiencing symptoms.

Compensation Available for Traumatic Brain Injuries

Most personal injury claims involve some traumatic brain injury (mild or severe), and the severity of that injury can affect your concussion car accident settlement, post-concussion syndrome settlement value, and overall compensation for your concussion. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) identify two distinct types of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Penetrating TBI:

This is an open TBI that occurs when something breaks through the skull, compromising brain tissue.

Non-penetrating TBI:

Known as a blunt TBI resulting from an external force to the head, this particular type of TBI is common in vehicle accidents. If a careless motorist caused your traumatic brain injury, you could file a claim regardless of how severe it is or whether or not the skull was penetrated. Below, we’ll explain the type of compensation you might be able to receive for a head injury claim.

Why Is It Necessary to See a Doctor Immediately?

Getting checked out by a doctor after any bump or blow to the head is a good idea, even if you don’t think you’re hurt. It is possible to prove through medical testing that your injury was caused by the motor vehicle accident in question and was not there before. Medical records will be required if you and your injury lawyer decide to file a claim. If you don’t have proof of where and how you were hurt, the person who was careless and caused your injuries can claim that you weren’t hurt or that it was someone else’s fault. Sufferers of traumatic brain injuries and their loved ones may get the financial support they need for the future by filing a personal injury claim.

Costs of Traumatic Brain Injury That Can Be Recovered

Injuries that can be traced to a specific cause are recoverable

A traumatic brain injury’s physical and psychological repercussions might vary significantly from person to person. Some symptoms and indicators may appear right after the injury, while others may not surface until days or months after. Suppose a doctor can establish a link between your symptoms and the brain injury. In that case, you may obtain compensation for all of these things, including pain and suffering, in a settlement for your car accident concussion.

Possible Recoupable Expenses

A traumatic brain injury can cause long-term impairment and have far-reaching consequences. Relationships (both personal and professional), career and productivity, and general happiness all fall under this category. Although traumatic brain injury can cause physical damage, the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects may be more concerning and far-reaching. You may have trouble with basic life tasks like grocery shopping, driving yourself home, and picking up the kids from school. Any of these unfavorable outcomes can be compensated for in a traumatic brain injury settlement. People might have a wide range of symptoms after sustaining head or brain injuries. To maximize your concussion compensation after a vehicle accident, you and your attorney must work closely to detail the exact effects of your injury. Your attorneys must draft a strong demand letter and, if required, litigation discovery to inform the adjuster, defense attorney, judge, and jury of your post-concussion syndrome injuries and obtain a fair settlement.

The proper medical care is recoverable

Regardless of the type of head injury, it’s crucial to get medical care immediately. This will affect any future settlements you receive for a mild brain injury and will assist in determining its nature and degree. Hospitals offering rehabilitative services and outpatient therapy programs provide a variety of treatments to assist patients in coping with the aftereffects of brain injuries. One might seek reimbursement for current and projected medical expenses. Your attorney’s ability to assist you with your medical care plans will significantly impact the amount of money you receive in a settlement for a concussion sustained in a vehicle accident. Because of this, for future treatment, you will need an experienced lawyer to collaborate with a certified expert to construct essential future medical care plans that will pass evidentiary muster. This is strongly related to the topic of how much a claim for a head injury is worth.

Caution Regarding Early Settlements

It may be several weeks or months after an accident before you realize how seriously you were hurt. Because of this, you could have doubted that you deserved any financial compensation. If you wait too long, the value of your claim could decrease for various reasons. In the worst-case scenario, you might agree to a settlement before you have any noticeable effects from the TBI. Always consult a lawyer who focuses on brain injuries before agreeing to any compensation.

Is There a Time Limit on Filing a Lawsuit?

It is imperative that you hire the best lawyer for your case as soon as possible. A victim of personal injury in Washington State has three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, following the state’s statute of limitations. Don’t put off consulting a lawyer till the end of the year. Waiting increases the possibility that crucial evidence will be lost, witnesses’ memories will fade, and medical costs will increase. The law in Washington is on your side if you suffer brain damage due to someone else’s negligence, and you have the right to timely legal aid from an experienced attorney.

The Role of an Attorney in a TBI Claim

Injuries can be physically, financially, and emotionally draining. Still, with an attorney’s help, you may recover financial damages to offset the costs of treatment, hospitalization, and lost wages.

Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys

Many previous clients have come to us after suffering a traumatic brain injury as a result of a car accident, and we have helped them get the compensation they needed to start over. With our legal and medical expertise, we will fight for you aggressively so that you can get on with living. Help is at hand from us at Strong Law Attorneys. Use our services to improve your chances of success. Fill out the contact form, or give us a call at ​​(206) 210-1399 if you’ve experienced a head or brain injury and want a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Car accidents often occur with minimal damage, and the other party involved may prefer not to involve car insurance for various reasons. Some may wish to avoid filing a police report, fearing an increase in insurance rates or lacking coverage altogether. Others may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs or have warrants out for their arrest. Nevertheless, in most states, reporting the crash to the police is mandatory. Beware if the other party offers cash as compensation for car repairs, as this should raise a red flag. If you find yourself uncertain about the proper course of action after a car accident, it is advisable to seek guidance from a car accident attorney who can provide you with expert legal advice.

You May Be Injured and Not Know It

If you fail to involve the police or exchange insurance information, you could end up suffering a significant financial loss. It’s common for individuals to feel fine immediately after an auto accident, but the rush of adrenaline may be masking underlying injuries that could manifest in the following days and require treatment. When you’re involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, your ability to think clearly may be compromised, particularly if you’ve sustained a concussion. The driver responsible for the crash may unjustly shift the blame onto you, exhibiting belligerent and aggressive behavior while refusing to provide any identification or insurance details. This is when it’s crucial to call 911 and report the accident, requesting the presence of paramedics at the scene. Reporting the crash to the police is often required by state law, so you’re not acting unreasonably in doing so. If possible, make a note of the make, model, and license plate of the vehicle that hit you. Additionally, collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene so that you can provide this information to your personal injury or car accident attorney if you need to file a claim.

What if the Other Driver Wants to Keep Insurance Out of the Picture?

While there is no legal requirement to involve the other driver’s insurance company if they have coverage, it is highly advisable not to exclude their insurance from the accident. By doing so, you may unintentionally harm your own interests. The true nature and extent of your injuries are still unknown, and there is no guarantee that the responsible party will honor any agreement you may reach. In the event that you file a claim later on, the opposing insurer could raise a policy defense and deny coverage. Furthermore, agreeing to keep insurance out of the picture may give your own insurance company grounds to deny assistance. It is always recommended to involve your insurance company as you pay premiums for their support during such incidents.

So What if the Other Driver Just Drives Off?

If the other driver flees the scene of the accident, it is important to remain at the location until the arrival of the police and paramedics. At this point, you not only find yourself as the unfortunate victim of an accident that was not your fault, but you are also a victim of a hit-and-run incident, which is considered a criminal act. Rest assured, a thorough investigation will be conducted, and an accident report will be generated. It is crucial for you to obtain a copy of this report promptly, especially if you have uninsured motorist insurance. In the meantime, it is advisable to have the attending paramedics transport you to the nearest emergency room for a comprehensive examination and treatment. Following that, it is imperative to promptly inform your insurance company about the car accident.

Things You Should Do If the Other Driver Is Difficult to Deal With

If the other driver in a car accident doesn’t want to go through insurance, it’s important to approach the situation cautiously and consider the following steps:

1. Exchange Information:
2. • Despite their reluctance to involve insurance, exchange contact information, including names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance details. This information may still be necessary in case you later decide to involve insurance or take legal action.
3. Document the Scene:
4. • Take photos of the accident scene, including damages to both vehicles, license plates, and any relevant road signs or conditions. This documentation can be valuable for insurance purposes or if legal action becomes necessary.
5. Get a Written Agreement:
6. • If the other driver is willing, you may want to create a written agreement stating that they accept responsibility for the accident and agree to cover all damages. Both parties should sign the agreement, and it should include details of the accident.
7. Consider the Severity of Damages:
8. • Assess the severity of damages to your vehicle and any injuries. If the damages are minor, you may decide to handle the situation without involving insurance, especially if the other driver is willing to cover repair costs.
9. Consult with an Attorney:
10. • If you have concerns or if the damages are significant, consult with a personal injury attorney. They can provide guidance on your options and help protect your interests. Even if you don’t initially involve insurance, consulting an attorney can be valuable.
11. Know Your State’s Laws:
12. • Understand the laws in your state regarding reporting accidents and insurance requirements. In some cases, accidents must be reported, and insurance companies notified, regardless of the parties’ preferences.
13. Consider Mediation:
14. • If there is a dispute about fault or damages, you may consider mediation as a way to resolve the issue outside of insurance. A neutral third party can assist in reaching a resolution.
15. Keep Records:
16. • Keep records of all communications, agreements, and expenses related to the accident. This includes receipts for repairs, medical bills, and any other costs incurred as a result of the accident.
17. Be Wary of Pressure:
18. • If the other driver is pressuring you not to involve insurance, be cautious. It’s essential to prioritize your own well-being and protection. If you’re unsure, seek legal advice.

Remember that your primary concern should be ensuring that you are fairly compensated for damages and injuries. If you have any doubts or concerns, consulting with a legal professional can help you make informed decisions based on your specific circumstances.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

At Strong Law, our team of experienced car accident attorneys has a proven track record of successfully handling uninsured motorist insurance claims for other drivers. We’re here to provide the same level of expertise and support for your situation. Feel free to reach out to our law offices today at any of our convenient locations for a complimentary consultation regarding your car accident.

You May be Entitled to Compensation for Spinal Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are some of the most severe, life-changing, and devastating injuries a person can suffer, and they can easily occur from the forces involved in a car crash. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), of the 17,730 new spinal cord injuries that occur each year in the United States, almost 40% are the result of car accidents. The spinal cord contains the major bundle of nerves that carries impulses from the brain to the rest of the body, so injury to the spinal cord can result in loss of function and partial or total paralysis. Victims may be left dealing with mounting medical and rehabilitation bills at a time when they are unable to work and need continued care.If you or a loved one suffered a spinal injury in one of the many crashes on Washington State roadways, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses through insurance or a personal injury lawsuit. However, personal injury laws in Washington are complicated, not every spinal injury is apparent right away, and insurance companies are out for profit and will try to get you to settle for the lowest amount possible.For these reasons, once you get medical attention and report the accident to your insurance company, you should contact a car accident attorney Strong Law to make sure your case is handled correctly, and your settlement covers all your losses and the care you may need into the future. Call us today at 206-210-1399.

How Car Accidents Can Cause Spinal Injuries

The spinal cord is a complex organ through which sensory information is relayed between the body and the brain. The spinal cord is surrounded by rings of bone known as vertebrae, and this makes up the spinal column.In a car accident, the force of impact can propel an accident victim forward, and they may strike another surface, such as a steering wheel, windshield, or pavement if thrown from the vehicle. The force and trauma can cause a sudden blow to the spine which may then move beyond its normal range of motion. Vertebrae can fracture and discs can become herniated or dislocated, putting pressure on, or piercing the spinal cord and damaging sensitive nerve tissues. The accident can also cause victims to suffer from whiplash, where the head is violently jolted back and forth, or they may hit their head and suffer head and neck injuries that may also cause the spinal column to compress and be damaged. Once the spinal cord is damaged, the effects on the body may be severe.

Common Spine Injuries from Car Accidents

The spinal cord, brain, and spinal nerves form the central nervous system (CNS), and a spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when any part of the spinal cord is damaged. Injuries to the spinal cord can cause damage to the nerves and interfere with the transmission of information between the brain and body parts. A spinal injury from a car accident can damage the CNS and interrupt the nerve flow necessary for motor function and sensory skills. The effects on the body vary depending on the area where the spinal cord is damaged, and damage to the spinal cord can cause victims to lose all or some of their ability to control movement and feeling below the injury site. A spinal injury that causes loss of mobility or sensation is called paralysis. The severity of paralysis is referred to as “the completeness” of the injury and is classified as either incomplete or complete. The injury is incomplete if the victim has some sensory or motor function below the point of injury and complete if all sensory and motor functions are lost.Paralysis from a spinal cord injury can also be referred to as paraplegia or quadriplegia:

• Paraplegia commonly occurs when the injury is lower in the back, and all or parts of the legs, trunk, and pelvic organs are affected by the injury.
• Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is common when the injury occurs higher in the back, such as in the cervical spine or the top of the neck. When it occurs, all or parts of the arms, hands, legs, trunk, and pelvic organs are affected. Tetraplegia eliminates the ability to move below the site of the injury. The paralysis will affect all four limbs, and all or parts of the arms, hands, legs, trunk, and pelvic organs are affected.

Common types of spinal cord injuries include:

• Fractured Vertebrae: A vertebral fracture is a partial or complete break in one of the small triangular bones that make up the spine. The blunt force trauma of a crash can cause small cracks in the bone’s surface, called hairline fractures, or completely shatter the bone. There are 33 vertebrae in the spine and breaks in any area can pinch or compress the spinal cord, causing damage.
• Herniated or ruptured or bulging discs:The discs are cushions between the vertebrae, and each disc has a soft, jelly-like interior and hard exterior. These discs can be torn in an accident or bulge when whiplash causes the neck to toss quickly forward and back. A herniated disc, or ruptured disc, occurs when the pressure of an outside force causes a crack in the disc’s exterior that allows the interior liquid to leak into the spinal canal. This results in swelling and pressure on surrounding nerves and nerve roots and can cause numbness, tingling, or shooting pain.
• Whiplash: Also known as a neck sprain, whiplash occurs when the force of the car accident thrusts the head and neck forward and backward. This is a neck injury that impacts facet joints and soft tissue as the motion stretches and tears the structures in the cervical spine, connective tissue, and ligaments.
• Pinched nerves: This may occur when swelling or other damage from a car accident caused the tissue surrounding a nerve to press on the nerve. The pressure can disrupt the nerve’s function and cause it to send pain signals to the brain.
• Spinal Stenosis:Spinal stenosis happens when damage from a car accident causes the spaces in the spinal canal to begin to narrow, placing pressure on the spinal column and the nerves.
• Spondylolysis:This is a term for degenerative conditions in the spine that may be brought on by injury in a car crash.

What Spinal Injuries Can You Get from a Car Crash?

Spinal injuries caused by car crashes can be life-changing and may worsen and cause more serious problems over weeks, months, or years because of damage to the surrounding tissue. Therefore, it is so important to recognize signs that you may have received a spine injury and seek medical care after a car accident. Lack of treatment can cause injuries to become more severe.Some of the many symptoms of spinal cord injuries include:

• Loss of sensation, movement, and feeling, typically in the extremities
• Numbness, tingling, pain, or intense stinging
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Spasms
• Coughing and trouble breathing.
• Sexual dysfunction
• Back or neck pain and stiffness
• Dizziness or confusion
• Headache at the base of the skull
• Weakness or paralysis anywhere in the body.

The spinal cord, like other parts of the nervous system, is complex and difficult to repair when damaged by the trauma of a car accident. Symptoms require medical attention, no matter when they develop. Your doctor should review the facts of the car accident, then order a variety of tests such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and evoked potential testing. All symptoms should be documented.

Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries from Car Accidents

Spinal injuries are not only painful and life-changing, but they are also very expensive. Victims of car accidents that were caused by another party’s negligence or fault are entitled to compensation that includes coverage for their monetary losses such as medical bills, lost wages, loss of future income, costs of modifying a home or vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair, and household medical care. In addition, you may also receive compensation for damages that are not monetary, such as pain and suffering and emotional anguish and anxiety from dealing with the aftermath of your spinal injury.No one should be put in financial peril because of someone else’s negligence. If you have suffered a spinal injury from a car accident, rather than attempt to negotiate with an insurance company and try to get compensation on your own, let an attorney committed to getting the maximum possible compensation advocate on your behalf.The skilled and experienced car accident lawyers at Strong law are fully prepared to help you get compensation for your injuries and losses through insurance or a personal injury lawsuit. We know the complexities of Washington law, the courts, the system, and how to deal with the insurance companies and their attorneys for a fair settlement.Remember, insurance companies are out for profit and will try to get you to settle for the lowest amount possible, and once you accept their offer, you will not be able to receive anything additional, even if your injuries worsen in the future.We are aware of the tactics they use and know how to negotiate on your behalf and advocate for you in court if a trial is necessary. Our team of car accident lawyers will take care of all legal hurdles and requirements necessary to win your case while you work to restore your physical health.The attorneys at Strong Law can be reached at 206-210-1399. Give us a call so we can answer your questions and start working for you today.

Are you wondering, “Can I sue for slipping and falling in a store?” If so, you’re in the right place. If you fall and suffer an injury due to unsafe conditions, then it may be possible to hire attorneys for slip and fall injuries and file a legal claim. Any public location that encourages people to come in, shop, and spend their money has a duty to those people to ensure they are safe while on the premises. If they do not adhere to this duty and you are injured, the store operator may be considered negligent. If negligence can be proven, then you have grounds to file a lawsuit.

Common Conditions That Result in Slip and Fall Accidents

A slip and fall accident can occur inside or outside a store. Some examples of dangerous conditions that may cause this type of accident include:

• Liquids left on the floor
• Frayed rugs or mats
• Clutter in store aisles
• Cracks or some other hazard in a parking lot
• Items that have fallen into the walking paths
• Improper lighting in stores, parking lots, or sidewalks
• Equipment like forklifts that are being operated inside a store

It’s important to note that these are just a few ways that an injury may occur and not a comprehensive list. If you want the legal right to sue a store after being involved in and injured by a slip and fall accident, you will need to have proof that the store was negligent in some way. Unfortunately, this is not always easy to do. One reason for this is that most larger stores will have large legal teams defending these types of cases. If you want to file a lawsuit for the accident and injury you suffer, hiring an attorney is highly recommended. We provide legal representation for cases like this and can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

What You Need to Prove Liability and Negligence in a Slip and Fall Accident

If you want to prove a store is liable and negligent for your slip and fall accident and injury, it’s necessary to prove that there was a hazardous condition, like boxes or other hazards in walkways, or that the store management was aware of the hazardous condition but failed to fix it. Another scenario may mean that someone (worker, customer, etc.) spilled something that could result in a slip and fall accident and it was reported to management. If they did not act to clean up the hazard and a slip and fall occurred, then this is the proof required to show liability and negligence. Also, customers are expected to take certain steps and use “reasonable care” to ensure they protect themselves. This means if it is obvious that there is a hazard ahead, but the customer still slips, trips, or falls, they may not be successful if a lawsuit is filed. With this information, it’s clear that being able to prove negligence is something that involves several different complicated factors. It’s another reason that you should hire a legal professional to help with your slip and fall case.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

Do you know what steps to take after this type of accident? If not, it’s a good idea to find out. After all, what you do, or don’t do, after this type of accident may impact your ability to file a lawsuit and recover compensation. One of the first things to do after a slip and fall accident in a store is to get medical attention. Along with making sure you are okay, going to a doctor after falling is the initial step in making sure your injuries and the incident are recorded. Some other steps to take after this type of incident include:

• Figure out where you fell and the possible reasons you fell. If possible, take photos.
• Gather contact information from any witnesses who saw your fall so that you can have your attorney contact them down the road.
• Make sure to report the accident to the store manager and have the proper paperwork completed.

For individuals who believe they can file a slip and fall lawsuit, it is good to maintain a file with all the information about the slip and fall incident and resulting injuries. Along with records about your doctor visit, some of the other things to include in your file include:

• Written record of your pain on a day-to-day basis
• The impact of the accident and injuries on your “normal” day-to-day activities
• How often you must take medications like pain relievers due to the pain caused by the injuries.

Filing a Lawsuit After a Slip and Fall Accident

Once you have taken the steps above, it’s a good idea to get in touch with our legal team. Our attorneys have years of experience providing representation for slip and fall accident victims. When you come to us with your claim, we will review the facts related to your case and the evidence that you have. At this point, we can determine if you have a viable claim. If so, our team can begin helping you with the proper forms to file a lawsuit. You will find that our legal team will work tirelessly to build a case and gather evidence to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today for Help with Your Slip and Fall Lawsuit

At Strong Law Accident and Injury Attorneys, we are ready to help you with your slip and fall accident case. Contact us by calling (206) 210-1399 for more information and to set up a free, initial consultation. We are here to help you with your legal needs and ensure you have quality, aggressive representation for your case. Not all personal injury attorneys are created equal, but our attorneys and legal team have a history and reputation for helping our clients achieve successful outcomes.

When an injury or mishap occurs while away from home, it often leads to the question of who is liable for an accident on private property. You may suffer injuries that require medical treatment and recovery time. How will you pay for those unexpected expenses and recover any lost wages from your job? Before pursuing legal action against the property owner, however, you’ll first need to determine who is at fault and who can be found liable for the accident that caused the resulting injury.

Who Is Liable for an Accident on Private Property?

While all property owners have a responsibility to maintain their property in a reasonably safe manner to avoid causing harm to others, they don’t always comply. When this happens and an accident occurs, the property owner may be found liable. The laws surrounding personal injury liability vary from state to state. However, in most instances, much will depend upon whether the private property is used for residential or commercial purposes.

Residential Private Property

A homeowner’s private property liability relies heavily on the reason you were on their property to begin with. In most states, you will be classified as one of the following:

• Invitee
• Licensee
• Trespasser.

For each of these classifications, the property owner has certain obligations. If these are not met, the property owner may be liable for the accident.

Invitee: An Invitee is one who is on the residential property for business purposes. The property owner has an obligation to take reasonable measures to ensure the property is safe at all times for these invitees.

Licensee: The Licensee is anyone who is on the property with permission but is not there for any business purpose. These include invited guests for social occasions. For these individuals, the residential property owner has a duty to provide warnings of any dangerous, hidden conditions on the property. Once the licensee is fully warned, however, the property owner is no longer liable for potential accidents involving those conditions.

Trespasser: A trespasser is defined as one who is on the private property without the owner’s permission. The property owner is obligated to avoid conduct that can intentionally injure any person on their property, including the trespasser; beyond that, however, they have no further obligation to these unexpected visitors.

Commercial Private Property

With commercial private property, there is an obligation to practice a higher standard of care in terms of maintaining safe conditions and a safe environment at all times. This obligation is for the benefit of visiting individuals and customers. In particular, commercial properties are required to make reasonable inspections of their property and keep it free of defects and dangerous conditions. If an accident occurs and it is found that a reasonable inspection would have identified the dangerous condition or defect, the answer to who is liable for an accident on private property may be the property owner. One example of how a business can ensure a safer environment is to take anti-slip measures, such as for recently mopped floors or floors that have become wet from rain or snow. The owner can put down mats or install signage warning customers or visitors of the slippery conditions. These measures may free them of liability if an accident occurs. The property owner may also be free of liability for most accidents or injuries that occur as the result of a third party, such as an assault while on the property. However, if such actions are foreseeable, the property owner may be expected to prevent them. Generally, regardless of whether the private property is used for commercial or residential purposes, the owner has the legal responsibility to ensure guests are safe. When they fail to meet this responsibility, they risk being found liable when an accident occurs, and you may have cause to bring a lawsuit to gain deserved compensation.

How to Prove Liability for an Injury on Private Property

When private property conditions are unsafe, defective, or neglected, debilitating problems, such as head injuries, can result. Other injuries may include back injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and internal bleeding. Proving liability for these injuries becomes imperative and is why consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is necessary. Once presented with all the facts surrounding your case, your attorney will work diligently to establish the essential elements to file a successful premises liability claim. Elements to prove a claim of premises liability or liability for an injury on private property include:

1. The private property owner has a duty of care to others.
2. The owner was negligent in some way in that duty of care, leading to a hazardous condition.
3. An injury occurs because of that hazardous condition.
4. Proof of injury exists, which may include medical records and bills, witness statements, and so forth.

Not all premises injury cases will be straightforward when it comes to liability, however. Two factors, in particular, can complicate matters. One of these factors involves commercial property. Many times, the business owner does not actually own the property but instead leases it from someone else. For this reason, when an accident occurs, the determination will need to be made as to whether the business owner, the property owner, or both have any liability. A second complicating factor, whether involving residential or commercial property, is the prospect of shared liability. That is, the property owner and the injured individual may be found partially liable for the accident. It’s no wonder, then, that proving who is liable for an injury on private property can become a complicated maze to navigate. For this reason, seek the guidance of a legal team highly knowledgeable in both premises liability and personal injury law to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

Contact Strong Law Attorneys in Oregon or Washington Today

When an accident and injury occurs on private property, proving liability is your first step to filing a claim and recovering deserved compensation for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and more. This is where Strong Law Attorneys can help. Serving clients in both Oregon and Washington, our premises liability lawyers will evaluate your case and discuss your options during a free consultation. Call 206-210-1399 today to get started.

If you fall in a parking lot, there are a few businesses you could potentially sue for damages. The most obvious party to sue would be the property owner. If the parking lot was poorly maintained by a company hired to manage the parking lot, then you may be able to include the management company in your lawsuit as well. If the cause of your fall is the way the parking lot was leveled and installed, then you may be able to sue the contractor and the company that paved the parking lot. In some cases, if faulty asphalt was the cause of your fall, then you may also be able to sue the manufacturer of the defective asphalt or parking lot surface. For example, if a parking lot is paved with asphalt that becomes very slippery when it rains, the manufacturer of the asphalt may be held liable if someone slips and falls on it. Moreover, if the asphalt is not mixed properly, it can become brittle and crack, which creates hazards for people walking on the surface. If you are injured in a parking lot due to a spillage, you may be able to sue the owner or operator of the vehicle that caused the spill. For example, if you slip and fall on gasoline that has been spilled from a tanker truck, you may be able to sue the truck driver or the company that owns the truck.

What Are the Most Common Causes for a Falling in a Parking Lot?

According to the CDC, over 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling. People can fall in parking lots for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes for falling in a parking lot include:

• Potholes
• Snow or ice
• Uneven surfaces
• Loose or broken asphalt or concrete
• Inadequate lighting
• Debris such as rocks, sticks, or trash
• Unmarked hazards such as manholes or puddles
• Oil, water, or other liquids on the ground
• Poor or unsafe parking lot design.

If you are injured as a result of one of these hazards, you may be able to file a lawsuit for slip and fall in a parking lot against the responsible party or parties. For example, if you slip and fall on an icy patch in a parking lot, you may be able to sue the property owner or manager for not removing the ice. Typically, the person in control of maintaining a parking lot, whether it be the owner, lessee, or maintenance company, has a duty to protect the people who use the parking lot from harm. If the responsible party fails to inspect, warn, or make safe their parking lot, then they may have breached their duty owed to the people who use the parking lot.

Furthermore, those in control of a parking lot must exercise reasonable care to protect people invited to use the parking lot from an unreasonable risk of harm caused by a dangerous condition on the land.

What Are Typical Injuries from Falling in a Parking Lot?

A typical slip and fall injury in a parking lot occurs when a person trips or loses their balance and then falls because of a dangerous condition. Some common slip and fall injuries include:

• Head injuries
• Fractures
• Back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck injuries
• Electrical shock
• Lacerations
• Cuts and bruises
• Sprained ankles
• Dislocated hips.

Each type of injury has its own set of risks and complications. For example, a cut can become infected, a sprain can lead to swelling and stiffness, and a dislocated hip can cause long-term pain. In some cases, a person who was injured by falling in a parking lot may also need to prove that they did not contribute to the accident more than the property owner. Since Oregon uses modified comparative negligence to assign fault, a person suing for damages may need to show that they took reasonable steps to avoid injury so as not to be more at fault (more than 51%) than the property owner. For example, if someone slips and falls on ice in a parking lot, they may be asked whether they wore boots with good traction, whether they tried to walk in an area where there was less ice, or if any warning signs were posted were they obeyed. If an injured person can show that they took reasonable precautions but still suffered an injury, then they may have a case against the owner or manager of the property. If a person is found to be partially at fault for the slip and fall, they can still recover monetary damages from the parking lot, but the amount of money may be reduced depending on how their negligence compares to that of the parking lot owner’s negligence. For example, if a person was awarded $10,000 in damages, but was found to be 30% at fault, then 30% will be deducted from the total award and the plaintiff will receive $7,000.

Your Consultation Is Free, But the Help You Receive May Be Invaluable.

As you can see, there can be a number of potential defendants that can be sued if you fall in a parking lot. It’s important to consult with an attorney to determine who is responsible for your fall and to what extent they may be held liable. If you fell in a parking lot, it is a good idea to seek the counsel of the slip and fall lawyers at Strong Law. Slip and fall accidents are often the result of negligence on the part of property owners, and parking lot accidents can result in serious injuries. You may be able to sue the property owner or the company that manages the lot to receive compensation. It is important to take action if you have been injured.  Experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand your legal options.

Contact our office at 206-210-1399 to schedule a free case evaluation and to learn more about how we can help you.

If you were injured in a car accident that was someone else’s fault, you may be entitled to file a car accident claim against the at-fault driver to recover damages. As part of this process, you may want to know how to get a car accident police report. To file a car accident claim, you have to be able to prove who was at fault for the accident. This means, among other things, that:

• Witnesses need to be interviewed before they forget what happened
• Evidence needs to be collected before it is lost, and
• Photographs need to be taken before injuries heal and damage is repaired.

In other words, you need to collect and preserve the evidence needed to prove that the other driver (and their auto insurance company) is liable to compensate you for your bodily injuries and financial losses. That’s why a car accident police report is so important to your car accident claim. Your car accident police report is the official record of your accident, and it contains just about all the information you will need to file a car accident claim. This article explores car accident police reports in the state of Washington and how to get one.

When is a Car Accident Police Report Made?

If the police respond to your car accident, they will usually make a car accident police report at the crash scene. The police must make a car accident police report if the accident involves a fatality or personal injury, or significant property damage ($700 or more).If a car accident police report was made in your case, it is important that you have an experienced car accident lawyer review it as soon as possible. The experienced car accident lawyers at Strong Law may be able to use your car accident police report to build a successful car accident case on your behalf.

What Information Does a Car Accident Police Report Contain?

Find Out How to Get a Car Accident Police Report and What’s in It

Your car accident police report contains the reporting officer’s unbiased observations about your car accident. However, police are human, and it is not uncommon for the car accident police report they make to contain some factual errors. If this is the case with your police accident report, don’t worry. The skilled car accident lawyers at our law firm may be able to use witness testimony, photographs, video footage, and other evidence to reconstruct the accident and tell what really happened. A car accident police report contains a lot of information. But there is no need to try and understand it all by yourself. We will review your car accident police report and interview any witnesses before they are interviewed by the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company.

Types of Car Accident Police Reports in Washington

Everyone knows that car accidents are an unfortunate reality on the roads and highways of our state. But are you aware that there are two kinds of car accident report forms that can be completed and filed with the State of Washington? One form, called a State of Washington Police Traffic Collision Report, is a form used by police officers to collect vital information related to an accident that happened in their jurisdiction; they then file it with the Washington State Patrol. This form is used by the responding police officer to collect detailed information regarding the accident, such as:

• Name and contact information for the vehicle operators
• Name and contact information for passengers and witnesses
• Type of roadway and accident
• Time, date, and location of the accident
• Number of vehicles involved and their types
• Type and severity of any injuries
• Name and badge number of the investigating officer
• Damage to the vehicles.

What’s more, this report contains the reporting officer’s written narrative of what happened to cause the accident. Another type of Washington car accident report form is called a Motor Vehicle Collision Report. This form is available to anyone involved in an accident that was not reported by a responding police officer, resulted in bodily injury or death, or caused more than $1,000 in total property damage. A Motor Vehicle Collision Report is required to be filled out and filed with the Washington State Patrol within 4 days of the accident. This can be done online through the Online Motor Vehicle Collision Reporting (OMVCR) system. Alternatively, you can download a blank form here, then complete, sign, and mail it to the Collision Records Section – P.O. Box 42628 Olympia, WA 98504-2628, or email it to collisionrecords@wsp.wa.gov.

How to Obtain a Copy of the Collision Report

When filing your car accident claim, you will need a copy of the collision report concerning your car accident. The first and most efficient way to request a copy of the report is online:

1. Go to the WRECR (Washington Requests for Electronic Collision Reports) site.
2. Click on To Order a Collision Report.
3. Enter your last name and date of the collision or the collision report number.
4. Choose the report that matches your accident information.
5. Pay a fee of $10.50 per report to request a copy.

Once the transaction has been completed, it can take two to four weeks before the report is available. Another way to request a collision report is by mail:

1. Download the form
2. Complete and sign the form.
3. Mail the completed form, along with a check or money order for $10.50, payable to the Washington State Patrol, to the following address: Washington State Patrol Collision Records Section P.O. Box 42628 Olympia, WA 98504-2628

Talk to Strong Law About How to Get a Car Accident Police Report

If you or someone you care about was injured in a car accident, taking quick action can increase the likelihood that you will be fully compensated for your injuries and losses. You’ll need all the information related to your accident to put together a strong case, so it’s important to know how to get a car accident police report. We can help. Call Strong Law today at 206-210-1399 to request a consultation with an experienced lawyer on our team. The sooner you get us involved, the better.

Nearly 18,000 people suffer catastrophic spinal cord injuries each year, and securing full, fair compensation often proves difficult. Upwards of 373,000 community members live with these debilitating conditions and long-term financial burdens that range into the millions. But too often, negligent people and corporations manage to evade financial responsibility. Rather than allowing callous parties to add insult to a devastating condition, it’s critical to enlist an experienced personal injury law firm and get the spinal injury compensation payout victims desperately need.

Facts About Spinal Cord Injuries

The number of people who suffer and live with spinal cord injuries increases each year. These debilitating injuries impact people regardless of race, gender, age, or socio-economic status. Men remain more likely to experience a spinal injury at a 78 to 22 percent ratio. African-Americans appear to get injured at a disproportional demographic rate, and the average age has ticked from 29 to 43 years old since the 1970s. That being said, no one is immune from these tragic injuries. A report tracking conditions from 2015 through 2020, released by the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), reflects the following.

• White Americans sustained spinal cord injuries at a rate of 58.1 percent.
• African-Americans suffered spinal cord injuries at a rate of 24.2 percent.
• Hispanic Americans endured spinal cord injuries at a rate of 13.3 percent.

The leading causes of spinal cord injuries remain relatively static year after year. Statistical information points to vehicular collisions accounting for 38.2 percent of such injuries, followed by hard impact falls at 32.3 percent. Deliberate violence (14.3 percent), sports (7.8 percent), and mistakes during surgical procedures (4.1 percent) were identified as leading causes. Only 3.3 percent of all spinal injuries occurred due to peripheral reasons.

How Much Compensation Will I Get for a Spinal Injury?

Compensation for a spinal cord injury largely depends on the severity and a wide range of relevant factors. Hospitalization stays rank among the most expensive initial costs, and injured people usually require 30 or more days before doctors release them. Following a hospitalization, rehabilitation, long-term care, and other costs add up quickly. The NSCISC outlines the differing costs among cases that involve severity ranging from High Tetraplegia, Low Tetraplegia, Paraplegia, and loss of motor function at any level. The organization estimates the first-year and lifetime costs based as follows:

• High Tetraplegia: $1,163,425 (first year), $202,032 (each following year), $5,162,152 (lifetime).
• Low Tetraplegia: $840,676 (first year), $123,938 (each following year), $3,771,791 (lifetime).
• Paraplegia: $567,011 (first year), $75,112 (each following year), $2,524,270 (lifetime).

Spinal cord injury victims who lose any degree of motor function can anticipate spending $379,698 on health care and rehabilitation during the first year. Once through the initial health care costs, comparatively minor spinal injuries task everyday people with paying $46,000 every year afterward. People living with spinal cord injuries have a 30 percent chance of re-hospitalization, with an average stay of 18 days. Secondary diseases to the urinary tract, skin, digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems rank among the leading causes of hospitalizations. It’s essential for spinal cord injury victims to understand that these expenses in no way, shape, or form help generate personal revenue. Many victims find themselves sidelined from work, and that puts a significant strain on the ability to pay for quality treatment, care, and rehabilitation services. Community members too often find the company coverage plan they possessed times out. When calculating a spinal cord injury settlement or asking a jury for damages, the financial burden stands as a critical factor. Without the resources to pay for the best treatment possible, the extent of your recovery and quality of life may be significantly compromised.

How Does a Spinal Injury Compensation Payout Work?

Securing spinal injury compensation often proves an uphill and complicated legal battle. Negligent parties and insurance companies typically try to minimize their losses by avoiding responsibility. Oregon applies a comparative negligence procedure that allows careless parties to claim the victim was at fault. Deployed by opposing lawyers and big insurance corporations, comparative negligence can enable them to avoid paying the true amount spinal injury victims deserve. That’s why a determined personal injury lawyer with spinal cord injury lawsuit experience builds a compelling case that includes the following economic losses:

• total cost of present medical expenses
• anticipated cost of future medical expenses with inflation
• cost of rehabilitation, physical therapy, and occupational therapy
• handicapped modifications to home or residence
• cost of psychological therapy to deal with trauma and cognitive disorders
• anticipated price of prescription drugs and medical devices
• value associated with impairment and disfigurement
• lost wages and earning capacity.

Although the responsible parties will likely try to reduce the settlement or jury award by claiming the victim was at fault, an experienced personal injury lawyer knows how to push back. Another prong to improving spinal injury compensation involves non-economic damages.

How Do Non-Economic Damages Work in a Spinal Injury Lawsuit?

Unlike the hard numbers involving reimbursement for medical care, rehabilitation, and lost wages, non-economic damages are harder to quantify. These include compensation for pain, suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and diminished quality of life, among others. It’s important for spinal cord injury victims in Oregon to keep in mind that the courts do not necessarily limit non-economic and punitive damages. In 2020, the Oregon Supreme Court held in Busch v. McInnis Waste System, Inc., 366 Or. 628, that limits on non-economic damage awards were unfair. “In 2020, the Oregon Supreme Court invalidated the state’s cap on non-economic damages, finding that while the Court ‘had no doubt that (the cap) was intended to reduce insurance costs and improve insurance availability,’ it nevertheless violated the state constitution’s remedy clause,” according to an American Medical Association report advocating for liability reform. Presenting a compelling and persuasive case on a victim’s behalf remains the best way to recover quantitative economic losses and increase compensation through non-economic damages. It wouldn’t be right for someone to suffer from limited mobility and reduced quality of life while the person or company responsible walks away scot-free. If you or a loved one suffered a spinal cord injury, it’s crucial to promptly contact an experienced spinal cord lawyer. Oregon places a two-year statute of limitation for filing personal injury lawsuits, and the clock began ticking at the time of the incident. At Strong Law in Eugene, people ask: How much compensation will I get for a spinal injury? Our compassionate and determined team of legal professionals will hold the negligent parties responsible and get you the full, fair compensation you deserve. Call us today at 206-210-1399 or request a free consultation by filling out our online form.

Brain injuries continue to pose a significant challenge for everyday people and their families, in terms of both their quality of life and their financial stability. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) too often go undiagnosed, and victims sustain considerable monetary and quality of life losses as a result. Those who seek medical treatment and care quickly discover health insurance coverage may not cover hospital bills and the peripheral costs associated with a brain injury. t Strong Law, we provide determined, compassionate legal care for victims of TBI because we are keenly aware of the financial and emotional toll on loving families. If you or a loved one suffered a hard impact to the head, we urge you to seek medical attention. Then, carefully consider the potential losses you could suffer due to someone else’s carelessness.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury can result from a wide range of hard impacts to the skull. Brain injuries can occur from a penetration, such as gunshot wounds, or blunt force trauma from car collisions or slips and falls. Brain injuries differ greatly in severity, with some requiring only a few days of rest to recover. But moderate to severe TBIs can cause long-lasting and permanent damage that sometimes proves fatal. Although relatively young adult males are overwhelmingly more statistically likely to suffer a TBI, our valued elders too often fall hard due to cluttered stairways, slippery floors, and other forms of negligence. Men and women who are involved in car crashes, play a sport, or suffer slips and falls are brain injury candidates. Even infants that are accidentally dropped can sustain a severe brain injury that goes undiagnosed. To understand the high cost associated with a brain injury, it’s essential to know the different degrees of the condition. These generally include the following.

• Mild Concussion: Sometimes referred to as an MTBI, mild concussions involve a seemingly brief departure from lucid consciousness. After sustaining a mild concussion, people feel woozy or dazed, or may pass out for up to 30 minutes. If feelings of confusion or memory loss persist for more than 24 hours, additional testing and immediate treatment may be necessary.
• Moderate TBI: Following a hard-impact fall or blow to the head, people who suffer a moderate TBI may lose consciousness for more than 30 minutes. Advanced testing may be necessary, and victims may have to stay home from work or school for upwards of a week.
• Severe TBI: High-speed car collisions, construction accidents, war, and deliberate violence leave victims unconscious for more than 24 hours. This level of trauma typically requires CT scans and a brain MRI to identify the extent of the trauma and injury. Victims of severe TBI could be sidelined from work indefinitely while incurring the cost of long-term treatment and care.

Cases involving TBI typically require a neurologist to conduct thorough examinations and determine the extent of memory loss, motor skill functions, and identify any adverse effects to hearing or vision. After suffering a brain injury, people can anticipate a battery of expensive tests.

What is the Average Cost of a Traumatic Brain Injury?

The cost of a traumatic brain injury often proves highly subjective. Healthcare costs differ between municipalities, and each injury poses a specific challenge. The U.S. National Library of Medicine, a wing of the National Institutes of Health, published cost-related findings. After considering more than 2,300 sources, its report indicated that in-hospital health care expenses ranged from $2,130 to $401,808 per victim. The study also reported the fact that in-hospital costs varied according to TBI severity and length of stay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concurred that TBI costs rank high and uneven. The CDC also estimated the total national annual cost of non-fatal TBI conditions is more than $40.6 billion; one-time emergency room treatment costs hover above $6,620 each; and 11 days of lost wages at upwards of $1,600 on average are typical. What victims of traumatic brain injuries may not anticipate is that there are expenses beyond hospitalization.

Costs Associated with a Brain Injury

Research compiled by the CDC also revealed that brain injuries typically do not resolve themselves quickly. A recent study indicates that only 26 percent of people with moderate-to-severe brain injuries improved within five years. Another 22 percent remained the same, 30 percent experienced worsening symptoms, and 22 percent died. That means 74 percent of TBI victims and their families can expect prolonged health care costs or tragic funeral expenses. These rank among the common items that drive up the cost of TBI care and rehabilitation:

• Nursing Home Care
• Speech and Occupational Therapy
• Prescription Medications
• Purchasing a Wheelchair, Walker, or Crutches
• In-Home Services such as Food Preparation and Cleaning
• Transportation Expenses
• Handicap-Accessible Home Modifications
• Lost Wages or Earning Capacity
• Diminished Quality of Life.

Perhaps the costliest part of a debilitating brain injury revolves around loved ones. Victims often lose mobility and can no longer play with children and grandchildren. Physical and cognitive limitations may negatively affect the love and companionship of a spouse. According to the data compiled by the Defense Medical Surveillance System, more than 449,000 members of the military were diagnosed with a brain injury from 2002 through 2021. While the majority of the brain injuries were viewed as mild, more than 48,000 were diagnosed as moderate, over 4,500 as severe, 5,500 were the result of skull penetration, and more than 21,000 were deemed as “not classifiable.” In a report to Congress, the CDC noted that TBI remains under-diagnosed and upwards of 5.3 million people in the U.S. live with a related disability.

How Can TBI Victims Recover Losses in Washington State?

Residents have up to three years to file a personal injury lawsuit following a TBI. State law also allows injured community members to secure compensation even if the incident was partially their fault. The state also does not necessarily put a cap on damages, and that bodes well for people who will require expensive long-term treatment and care.

Contact an Experienced Brain Injury Law Firm You Can Trust

If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury, it’s crucial to promptly contact an experienced personal injury law firm. A brain injury lawyer can review the facts of the incident, provide invaluable legal advice, and file a civil lawsuit on your behalf. It would be fundamentally unfair for a negligent party to cause pain, suffering, and financial losses, while you and your loved ones bear these burdens. Call Strong Law at 206-210-1399 or use our online form to schedule a free TBI consultation today.