When you’re recovering from a traumatic brain injury, you shouldn’t have to worry about navigating the legal system or negotiating with insurance companies. That’s where an experienced personal injury lawyer can step in. By connecting with a local attorney who understands Arkansas law and TBI claims, you’ll have someone who can take the lead, allowing you to focus on your recovery. 

Brain injury claims can be particularly complex because the full extent of a TBI often isn’t immediately apparent. A local lawyer will gather the necessary evidence to prove the scope of your injury and build a strong case for compensation. They will ensure that both current and future medical needs are factored into the claim.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may try to settle claims quickly, often offering far less than what you might need for long-term care. This is especially true for TBIs, where future medical expenses and the potential for long-term disability are significant considerations. 

A lawyer who focuses on TBI cases will handle negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, advocating for compensation that takes into account not only your immediate medical bills but also future damages.

Economic Damages for a TBI

Economic damages for a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are intended to cover the financial losses directly resulting from the injury. Some common types of economic damages in TBI cases include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of immediate medical care, such as emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications. It also covers long-term treatments like rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and ongoing medical care related to the brain injury.
• Future Medical Costs: Many TBI victims require ongoing medical attention for years or even a lifetime. Future medical costs can include long-term care, therapy, and possible future surgeries or procedures related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: If the injured person is unable to work during their recovery period, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes the income lost due to time off work for medical treatments and recovery.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: In more severe cases, a TBI may prevent the accident victim from returning to their previous job or working in any capacity. Economic damages can include compensation for the loss of future earning potential or a reduction in earning capacity.
• Home Modifications: Some people with TBIs require home modifications to accommodate their injuries, such as wheelchair ramps, widened doorways, or other accessibility improvements. These costs can be included in economic damages.
• Cost of Assistive Devices: This includes the cost of wheelchairs, communication devices, or other equipment needed to assist with daily activities due to the injury.
• Long-term Care: For severe brain injuries, patients may need ongoing nursing care or in-home assistance for daily tasks. The cost of long-term care or home health aides can be recovered as part of economic damages. 

These economic damages are quantifiable financial losses, and an experienced Arkansas TBI attorney can help ensure that both current and future costs are considered when pursuing compensation for a traumatic brain injury.

Non-Economic Damages for a Traumatic Brain Injury

In addition to medical bills and lost wages, a TBI can cause significant emotional and psychological harm. The impact of a brain injury extends far beyond the physical symptoms—it can disrupt your ability to work, participate in family life, and enjoy hobbies. Emotional struggles, such as depression, anxiety, and frustration, are common for TBI victims and their families. 

A local attorney can help you pursue non-economic damages, which account for a TBI’s emotional toll on your life. Non-economic damages can include compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress. 

These types of damages are difficult to quantify, but an experienced personal injury attorney will know how to present evidence that fully reflects the impact of the injury on your daily life.