Understanding Brain Injuries and Your Legal Rights
A brain injury can be life-altering, affecting both the injured person and their loved ones. Whether caused by a car accident, fall, workplace incident, or other forms of trauma, brain injuries require immediate medical attention and ongoing care. At Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l., our experienced Ottawa personal injury lawyers are here to help you navigate the complexities of a brain injury claim.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
Brain injuries are usually sustained by a traumatic force to the head (often abbreviated to TBI – Traumatic Brain Injury). They range from concussions (which in themselves can be severe) to the most serious of impairments.
In assessing a brain injury you may need an MRI or CT scan. You may also need a neuropsychological assessment to show deficits that are not readily apparent on a scan. Sometimes these injuries are identified right away; sometimes it takes time to determine the extent of the impact a head trauma may have caused.
Common Symptoms of Brain Injuries:
• Cognitive Issues: Memory loss, trouble focusing, difficulty making decisions, disorientation, and confusion.
• Physical Symptoms: Dizziness, balance problems, headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, severe fatigue.
• Speech and Communication Issues: Difficulty reading and looking at screens, word-finding difficulties, slurred speech, and trouble expressing emotions.
• Emotional and Behavioural Changes: Mood swings, personality changes, anxiety, depression, and difficulty managing emotions.
• Sleep Disruptions: Insomnia and irregular sleep patterns.
Diagnosing, Treating and Recovering From Brain Injuries
Recovery from a brain injury is hard to assess at the outset. People often see a concussion as “just needing time” to resolve. This is not always the case and there are services and therapies that can help you recover from a concussion. More severe injuries require fairly intensive rehabilitation programs, and may lead to permanent impairments that you will need help managing during the course of your lifetime.
Treatment plans vary based on the severity of the injury and may include:
• Rest and Observation
• Medications
• Cognitive Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Massage
• Occupational therapy
• Speech Therapy
• Psychological Support
• Employment Accommodations
• Assistance at Home
• Attendant Care
Brain injuries are devastating and frustrating, for both you and your family. We understand the impact and seriousness of these injuries and our personal injury lawyers will help you with both your legal needs, as well as obtaining the medical support required to help you recover and function.
How Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l. Can HelP
After suffering a brain injury, dealing with medical appointments, rehabilitation, and financial uncertainty adds to the stress. Our Ottawa personal injury lawyers are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation for:
• Medical expenses (past, present, and future care)
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Income Losses and losses related to future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Caregiver Expenses
• Home Expenses
• Long-term disability claims
Why Choose Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l.?
Decades of Experience
With years of dedicated service in Ottawa, our firm has built a strong reputation for excellence in personal injury law. We have successfully represented countless individuals and families facing the devastating effects of brain injuries. Our extensive knowledge of Ontario’s legal landscape allows us to navigate even the most complex cases with skill and efficiency, ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Results-Driven Advocacy
At Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l., we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Our legal team has recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts, helping individuals and families rebuild their lives after traumatic injuries. We take a strategic approach to every case, leveraging our negotiation skills and litigation expertise to maximize compensation for medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term support.
Personalized Legal Support
Every brain injury case is unique, and we believe in providing personalized, client-focused representation. From the moment you contact us, we take the time to understand your specific circumstances, medical needs, and financial concerns. Our legal team works closely with medical professionals, rehabilitation specialists, and financial experts to build a comprehensive case that reflects the full impact of your injury. We are here to answer your questions, guide you through the legal process, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I do if I suspect I have a brain injury?
A: Seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms seem mild. Document your symptoms, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and contact a brain injury lawyer to understand your legal options.
Q: How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Ottawa?
A: In Ontario, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions, so it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Q: How can a personal injury lawyer help with my brain injury claim?
A: A lawyer will handle legal paperwork, negotiate with insurance companies, gather medical evidence, help you obtain benefits and treatment, and fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
