San Antonio Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers

Hire a Brain Injury Lawyer in San Antonio

There’s no injury quite like a traumatic brain injury, or TBI. A TBI can change an individual’s life in a fraction of a second, and it doesn’t require a huge physical impact.

Unlike other injuries like broken bones, which can repair over time, the brain won’t always heal.

A TBI happens when the brain is damaged by a sudden external force, such as a blow to the head. While it ranges in severity from mild to severe, any TBI is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can cause a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.

There are many potential causes of traumatic brain injury in San Antonio, ranging from auto collisions like car accidents and truck accidents to slips and falls, or workplace injuries.

Whatever the nature of your accident, if it was caused by the reckless or negligent actions of another individual or organization, you have the right to hold them accountable.

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Excellent
Based on 314 reviews
Christian Clark
Christian Clark
August 29, 2023
Awesome law firm! Have been extremely helpful with the process of my car accident. Extremely respectful and courteous.
Librado Zuniga
Librado Zuniga
August 17, 2023
Buen servicio siempre atentos y buen personal. Gracias por SUS atenciones y por su trabajo. 100%recomendable!!
Aida Trevino
Aida Trevino
August 17, 2023
I was very satisfied with my settlement and lawyer's who handled my case thank you satisfied customer
Kristian Jimenez
Kristian Jimenez
July 6, 2023
They work hard for your case and make sure you are kept well informed while in the process!
Guadalupe Ambriz
Guadalupe Ambriz
June 28, 2023
Excellent job, excellent service... 💯% Recommended 👍👍👍 thanks for everything 👍👍👍
Lucero Trevino
Lucero Trevino
June 28, 2023
Thank you so much for the help to Patiño law from totally recommended they were to nice and helpful through whole process.
Leo Delgado
Leo Delgado
June 26, 2023
I would highly recommend you to go to Patino Law Firm as they had helped me with a car accident and did an excellent job!!!
Janie Longoria
Janie Longoria
June 9, 2023
My experience with the firm was Excellent, they take everything into consideration .They go over and beyond for a fair outcome I highly recommend Patino Law Firm.
Raul Pena
Raul Pena
June 7, 2023
The Patino Law Firm has a very profession team that is very knowledgeable in their area of practice, Personal Injury Cases. They will answer any and all questions regarding your case and they will keep you well informed of the status of your case. Furthermore, they will provide you with a fast and worthwhile resolution of your case and will ensure that you are 100% satisfied with the outcome.
Amber Gunn
Amber Gunn
May 30, 2023
Patino is literally not the stereotypical “attorney” we all think about. He is caring and real and honest and trustworthy. He fights for his clients like he would fight for himself. It’s what we all expect but very rarely see or get! We have used him twice now, and he’s just stellar. Don’t doubt this man. He’s amazing! And you get what you pay for!

Choose the Best San Antonio Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers to Handle Your Case

Doctor, attorney, veteran, and the founder of Patino Law Firm, Louis “Doc” Patino is a top San Antonio brain injury attorney dedicated to helping San Antonio residents recover compensation for accidents that weren’t their fault.

From our office at 13974 Nacogdoches Rd, San Antonio, TX 78217, we represent victims who have sustained TBIs in a range of accidents, including car accidents, trucking accidents, premises liability, slips and falls, work injury, and more.

Reach out and call us today at 855-LAW-NINJA, send us a confidential message on our contact page, pop into our office, or let us know where you are and we’ll come to you for your free, no-obligation case review.

SPEAK TO A LEADING TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY ABOUT YOUR CASE

How Do Traumatic Brain Injuries Happen in San Antonio?

Traumatic brain injuries are caused by an external force that impacts the head or brain. This differentiates them from non-traumatic brain injuries, which, as the name suggests, are not caused by trauma.

Non-traumatic brain injuries can occur as a result of many conditions or events, including a stroke, brain aneurysm, infection, brain tumor, overdose, drowning, cardiac arrest, and inhalation or ingestion of toxic fumes or substances.

Let’s look at some of the common causes of traumatic brain injuries.

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

TBIs can happen in:

Slips and falls: Falls are a common cause of TBI that can affect anyone. A slip while walking down the street can cause catastrophic injury to young children or older adults, but head injuries can be equally devastating to someone who suffers a work injury by falling from a height, such as a ladder, staircase, or raised platform.

Motor vehicle accidents: Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of TBI. They can occur when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or object, such as in:

Sports: People who play certain sports, such as football and boxing, are more at risk of sustaining a TBI due to the physical nature of the sport, where it’s not uncommon to sustain head trauma.

While certain types of accidents are more likely to cause TBIs, a traumatic brain injury can occur in any event resulting in a blow to the head, whether from a punch, explosion, shunt, or fall onto a hard surface.

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury due to the actions of someone else, our brain injury attorneys in San Antonio can explore whether you have a claim and help you get the compensation you deserve.

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Why There’s No Such Thing as a Minor Brain Injury

When a TBI victim visits a doctor, their brain injury will usually be classified into one of three categories: mild, moderate, or severe.

We need to emphasize that if a brain injury is classified as mild, that doesn’t mean that it’s not a serious injury. On the contrary, mild traumatic brain injuries — such as concussion, which is when a blow to the head causes the brain to move and sometimes hit the skull — can still be life-changing and affect an individual for the rest of their life.

Victims of a traumatic brain injury in an accident in San Antonio can suffer cognitive, mobility, and emotional impairment, which can result in:

  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Inability to work or go to school
  • Loss of memory
  • Dysarthria (slurred speech)
  • Trouble reading or understanding language
  • Inattention
  • Weakness or paralysis
  • Dizziness
  • Poor coordination
  • Loss of fine motor skills (individuals may struggle to pick up a pen and write or eat with utensils)
  • Seizures
  • Mood swings
  • Trouble regulating emotions, resulting in frustration

These are just some of the ways traumatic brain injuries can impact victims, whether they sustain a “minor” or “severe” injury. Our traumatic brain injury lawyers in San Antonio know there’s no such thing as a minor TBI and are prepared to fight to get you the compensation you deserve, regardless of how your injury is medically classified.

The Long-Term Impact of a Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury, and the long-term symptoms it can cause, means victims often need to adjust to living with it. Severe TBIs can lead to degenerative conditions such as dementia, as well as shortened life expectancy.

In a report by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the organization found that a moderate brain injury reduces life expectancy by nine years. It also makes an individual 50 times more likely to die from a seizure, nine times more likely to die from an infection, and six times more likely to die from pneumonia.

If a person survives a traumatic brain injury, they’re likely to require multiple trips to the hospital over time. They may even lose their job and will likely need help from family or friends to complete the most basic tasks. Living with a TBI can also mean a loss of enjoyment and overall satisfaction with life, which can result in substance or alcohol abuse.

Under Texas law, any person who sustains a brain injury in an accident caused through no fault of their own may be able to recover compensation from whoever was responsible. Our San Antonio traumatic brain injury lawyers at the Patino Law Firm can help you determine if you have a claim.

Who Is Liable for a Traumatic Brain Injury in San Antonio?

Many parties can be liable if you suffer a TBI in an accident in San Antonio. Depending on how your accident happened, a single person may be at fault or you may be able to recover compensation from multiple parties that all played a role in causing the accident.

For example, if you sustain your brain injury in a truck accident caused by a driver who was not qualified to operate the semi-truck, you may be able to claim from the driver as well as the trucking company that employed them. Other parties that can be liable in auto accidents include a manufacturer, contractor, or other organization.

If you have a TBI because of a condition or accident resulting from medical malpractice, you may be able to hold the doctor or medical professional liable. This can happen if a doctor prescribes the wrong medication and it causes you to collapse and hit your head or if a consultant fails to diagnose a medical condition that leads to you having a stroke.

If you slip while at a restaurant or on someone else’s property because it wasn’t maintained or hazards weren’t signposted — such as wet floor signs near a spillage — the owner of the business or property may be held liable.

Or, if a defective product causes a TBI, several parties may be responsible, including the manufacturer of the product and the company that sold it.

Determining who’s at fault for your TBI is always one of the first steps in seeing if you have a personal injury claim. A San Antonio traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, as well as advocate on your behalf to get you the maximum compensation possible.

Our Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers in San Antonio Can Calculate Your Compensation

If your personal injury claim is successful, you will receive compensation for your injuries. There are various types of compensation you may receive, including:

Medical expenses: After a traumatic brain injury in San Antonio, you’ll likely need significant medical treatment. You’re entitled to recover past and future medical costs, including emergency room fees, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, therapy, rehabilitation, and travel to and from the hospital. If your TBI requires you to modify your home to make it easier to independently complete tasks, you will also be able to recover the cost.

Lost wages: Even if your brain injury heals and you can live a normal life without any long-term difficulty, you will still need time off work to recover immediately after your injury. You can claim the wages you would have received had you not been injured, along with any future losses you’ll incur if you’re unable to work again.

Pain and suffering: Your TBI will also likely cause physical pain and emotional distress, and prevent you from doing certain activities you used to enjoy. This type of compensation is tricky to calculate as you can’t easily put a price on the pain you’ve suffered, but it can be significant.

Loss of consortium: If your TBI has affected your relationship with your spouse or parent, whether they are unable to provide you with affection because of their injury or because they’ve died from their injury, you may be able to recover damages for the loss of companionship, affection, and support.

Property damage: As traumatic brain injuries are serious injuries, they often occur in catastrophic accidents that cause significant damage. If you sustained property damage in your accident, such as damage to your vehicle in a car or truck accident, you can recover the cost of repairing or replacing it in your claim.

It’s vital to note that the amount of compensation you may be able to recover after your accident depends on several factors, including the severity of your injury, the damages you’ve suffered, the strength of the evidence supporting your claim, and the insurance company representing the liable party. A San Antonio traumatic brain injury attorney will work closely with you to understand the unique elements of your traumatic brain injury lawsuit and get you the compensation you deserve.

Speak to a Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney in San Antonio

Dr. Louis Patino’s background as a U.S. Army Combat Medic and chiropractor provides him with a unique perspective and experience not many other attorneys can boast. This helps him explain the realities of living with a brain injury to his clients as well as secure the compensation that will support them financially.

While he knows that no amount of money will likely ever fully compensate them for the pain and suffering they’ve endured and the symptoms they might continue to experience for the rest of their lives, it can give them the support they need as they adapt to life with their injury.

If you’ve suffered a brain injury in San Antonio, McAllen, Uvalde, Converse, or anywhere else in Texas, you may be entitled to significant compensation that can help you as you rebuild your life. 

To book a free, no-obligation appointment with our team of San Antonio traumatic brain injury attorneys, call 855-LAW-NINJA, contact us online, or pop into our office on Nacogdoches Road.

It takes less than a minute to get in touch, and you can reach us 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traumatic Brain Injuries in San Antonio

It’s impossible to say exactly how much a brain injury is worth without knowing the specifics of your situation, as each case is unique and the impact of a brain injury can vary greatly from person to person. That being said, if you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering you’ve experienced as a result of the injury.

In addition to these damages, you may also be able to recover punitive damages if the responsible party’s behavior was especially egregious, such as driving while intoxicated. These damages are designed to punish the responsible party and are only available if your case goes to trial. Punitive damages are ultimately at the discretion of a jury.

Keep in mind that pursuing a brain injury claim can be complex and time-consuming, and it may involve a variety of costs, including expert witness fees, legal fees, and administrative expenses. An experienced attorney can help you understand the potential value of your claim and advise you on the best course of action.

In many cases, a mild traumatic brain injury, such as concussion without complications, can be resolved with settlements in the five to six-figure range. On the other hand, severe TBIs that lead to significant life-changing impairments may be settled in the six or seven-figure range. The amount of your settlement will depend on the direct damages you’ve experienced and your future needs, such as expected treatment costs and lost income. Your attorney can help you understand the value of your traumatic brain injury claim and work with you to get the compensation you need to cover these expenses and move forward with your recovery.

Proving a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in court can be complicated, as TBIs are often difficult to diagnose and can cause a wide range of symptoms. To prove a TBI in court, it is generally necessary to present evidence that supports your claim, such as:

Medical records: Medical records, including diagnostic tests and treatment records, can help to establish the presence of a TBI and its severity.

Expert testimony: Expert testimony from medical professionals can provide insight into the treatment already administered and what future treatment is needed to achieve maximum recovery.

Eyewitness testimony: Individuals who witnessed the event that caused the TBI can testify about what they saw (such as a visible head injury) and even who was responsible.

Surveillance footage or photos: Surveillance footage or photos of the event that caused the TBI can show when your injury occurred (preventing the other party from claiming it happened later) and also help establish who was at fault.

Accident reports: Accident reports, such as the crash report filed by police at the scene, provides a record of how the accident happened and the injuries sustained.

It is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you gather and present the evidence necessary to prove your TBI and recover the compensation you’re owed.

At Patino Law Firm, we understand that if you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, you may be facing financial difficulties due to lost wages and medical expenses. But you shouldn’t have to suffer just because you can’t afford the upfront cost of legal counsel. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we don’t get paid until we win your case.

When we secure a favorable judgment in court or settle during negotiations, we will take a percentage of your recovery as our fee.

It’s important to note that you may have additional costs, such as:

  • Medical bills fronted until your compensation came through
  • Testimony or opinions of expert witnesses
  • Administration

Knowing this, you may be considering negotiating a settlement on your own so you can keep the full amount. However, attorney-negotiated settlements are often significantly higher, even after all legal bills and liens are deducted. This is because our San Antonio traumatic brain injury lawyers are expert negotiators and trial advocates who understand how insurance companies operate and the tactics they use. In many traumatic brain injury cases, our clients also aren’t aware of just how much compensation they’re entitled to and all the various damages they can recover, which would likely result in accepting a lower offer if they decided to go it alone.

We are committed to keeping you up to date during the entire process, which means you’ll always know how much you can expect to receive after all deductions and what those deductions are for. While no amount of compensation can turn back the clock to before your accident, it can get rid of your financial worries so that you can focus on recovering or adapting to life with your injury.

The length of time it takes to recover compensation after suffering a traumatic brain injury in San Antonio will depend on a variety of factors, including the specific circumstances of the injury, the complexity of the case, and the evidence supporting the claim.

If you are seeking compensation for a TBI through a personal injury claim, the process can take time. It may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the injury and to gather evidence to support your claim. This process can take several months or longer, depending on the complexity of the case.

Once all the necessary evidence has been gathered, negotiations typically begin to agree on a settlement with the responsible party’s insurance company. This can also take time, as both sides may need to exchange information and negotiate the terms of the settlement.

Overall, the length of time it takes to recover compensation after suffering a TBI in San Antonio will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. An experienced attorney can advise on how long it might take based on your unique situation.

If you or a loved one has suffered a blow to the head or other type of injury that may have caused brain damage, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. There are a variety of ways that doctors can check for brain damage, including:

Physical examination: A physical examination can identify visible signs of head trauma, such as cuts or bruises, a change in pupil dilation, or weakness or paralysis in the body.

Neurological examination: A neurological examination involves testing reflexes and muscle strength to evaluate brain function.

Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT and MRI scans create detailed pictures of the brain, which can highlight damage or abnormalities.

Neuropsychological testing: Neuropsychological testing focuses on cognitive function. With these, medical professionals can determine if a head injury has resulted in issues with memory, attention span, or problem-solving.

The symptoms of brain damage are not always immediately apparent, but the sooner it’s diagnosed and treatment begins, the better the prognosis. This makes it vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a head injury — even if it’s only a minor bump.

While it’s not always easy to tell if you have brain damage without cognitive tests, scans, and a physical examination, there are a few signs that you should be aware of, such as:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory problems
  • Weakness or paralysis, especially on one side of the body
  • Irritability
  • Aggressiveness
  • Other changes in mood or behavior.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms after a bump to the head, no matter how minor it may have been, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. Often, these symptoms indicate something much less serious — a headache can just be a headache, and moodiness can happen because you’re having a bad day — but it’s better to be safe and get it checked out. A doctor can help to determine the extent of any brain damage and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Brain damage resulting from a traumatic brain injury can be a disability, as it can cause a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that can impact a person’s ability to function. The severity of any disability will depend on the specific nature and extent of the brain damage, as well as the individual’s overall health.

People with brain damage from TBI may be eligible for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). To qualify for disability benefits, a person must be unable to work due to their disability and must meet the SSA’s criteria for disability, which may consider factors such as the person’s age, education, and work experience.

Encephalomalacia, also known as brain atrophy, is when brain tissue has been damaged or died. It can result from trauma, stroke, infection, or degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Because the brain is responsible for so many functions, encephalomalacia can impact individuals physically, cognitively, and emotionally.

Depending on the specific nature and extent of the condition, it may be considered a disability.

If you know someone who has suffered a traumatic brain injury), there are several ways you can help:

Provide emotional support: Be there for your friend or loved one and offer your support and understanding. Let them know that you are available to listen and help in any way you can.

Encourage the person to follow their treatment plan: It’s vital for traumatic brain injury victims to follow the treatment plan prescribed by their healthcare team. Encourage them to attend therapy sessions and take their medications as directed.

Help with daily tasks: Depending on the severity of the TBI, your loved one may need help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. Offer to assist with these tasks or help to arrange for someone else to do them.

Create a safe environment: A traumatic brain injury can cause weakness, paralysis, and confusion or disorientation, so an individual with a TBI may be more prone to accidents. Removing hazards such as loose rugs and clearing cluttered spaces can help provide a physically safe environment.

Offer practical assistance: Depending on your friend or loved one’s needs and your own resources, you may be able to offer practical assistance, such as helping to pay bills or offering to drive them to appointments.

You should keep in mind that every person is different, and the needs of someone with a TBI can vary. It’s also vital to be mindful of how they might be feeling. Suffering a TBI can turn an individual’s life upside down, and they may be mourning the loss of independence they previously enjoyed. For someone with a severe brain injury, completing even the smallest task on their own can bring them a lot of comfort, so be cautious when it comes to just stepping in and doing everything for them — even though it’s coming from a good place.

A traumatic brain injury can have a significant impact on a victim’s family. These injuries can cause a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that can affect the person’s ability to function, so families may need to provide emotional support and help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. A family may also need to make changes to the home and daily routines to accommodate the victim’s needs.

In addition to the practical considerations, families may also experience emotional and financial stresses as a result of a TBI. If a brain injury causes changes in personality or behavior, this can be difficult for family members to see and adjust to. Families may also be under financial strain if their loved one cannot work or requires significant medical treatment — as is often the case with traumatic brain injuries.

Additional support can help families cope with the impact of a loved one’s traumatic brain injury, whether from external sources or closer to home. Don’t be afraid to seek support from friends, family, and community resources, as well as the help of a therapist or other mental health professional.

Living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a complex and often challenging experience. The impact varies from person to person and greatly depends on the severity and location of the injury. People with TBIs may experience physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and general weakness. Cognitive challenges can include difficulty with memory, concentration, and problem-solving. 

Traumatic brain injuries can also cause emotional changes, such as irritability and depression. If you or someone you know is showing any of these signs, it’s important to seek medical assistance as soon as possible. While some of these symptoms may not be related to a head injury or traumatic brain injury, it’s always good to check with a doctor. You may also want to consult with a traumatic brain injury lawyer if the head injury is a result of an accident.

While most fatalities from head injuries occur shortly after the injury itself, it’s possible for complications related to the injury to lead to death years later. Chronic issues such as seizures, neurological disorders, and other long-term health problems related to the injury can lead to life-threatening situations in later life. In such cases, family members might seek consultation with a head injury lawyer.

If you’ve suffered from a head injury, it’s important to you adhere to treatment plans and seek regular medical check-ups. While the long-term effects of a serious closed head injury can be unpredictable, regular medical assistance can help to mitigate the risks.

A brain injury refers to any injury to the brain that affects a person’s normal brain function. This can include traumatic brain injuries, which are caused by external forces like a blow to the head, or acquired brain injuries, which occur at the cellular level and can be caused by stroke, infection, or other medical conditions. The symptoms and severity of a brain injury can vary widely depending on the cause, location, and extent of the damage.

Brain injuries can result from a multitude of causes, from falls and car accidents to violence and sports injuries. A closed head injury is typically the result of a blow that does not penetrate the skull. Traumatic brain injuries might necessitate legal representation, such as a head injury lawyer, particularly if negligence is suspected. Acquired brain injuries can be caused by internal factors like stroke, infection, tumors, lack of oxygen (anoxia), or toxic exposure.

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Excellent
Based on 314 reviews
Christian Clark
Christian Clark
August 29, 2023
Awesome law firm! Have been extremely helpful with the process of my car accident. Extremely respectful and courteous.
Librado Zuniga
Librado Zuniga
August 17, 2023
Buen servicio siempre atentos y buen personal. Gracias por SUS atenciones y por su trabajo. 100%recomendable!!
Aida Trevino
Aida Trevino
August 17, 2023
I was very satisfied with my settlement and lawyer's who handled my case thank you satisfied customer
Kristian Jimenez
Kristian Jimenez
July 6, 2023
They work hard for your case and make sure you are kept well informed while in the process!
Guadalupe Ambriz
Guadalupe Ambriz
June 28, 2023
Excellent job, excellent service... 💯% Recommended 👍👍👍 thanks for everything 👍👍👍
Lucero Trevino
Lucero Trevino
June 28, 2023
Thank you so much for the help to Patiño law from totally recommended they were to nice and helpful through whole process.
Leo Delgado
Leo Delgado
June 26, 2023
I would highly recommend you to go to Patino Law Firm as they had helped me with a car accident and did an excellent job!!!
Janie Longoria
Janie Longoria
June 9, 2023
My experience with the firm was Excellent, they take everything into consideration .They go over and beyond for a fair outcome I highly recommend Patino Law Firm.
Raul Pena
Raul Pena
June 7, 2023
The Patino Law Firm has a very profession team that is very knowledgeable in their area of practice, Personal Injury Cases. They will answer any and all questions regarding your case and they will keep you well informed of the status of your case. Furthermore, they will provide you with a fast and worthwhile resolution of your case and will ensure that you are 100% satisfied with the outcome.
Amber Gunn
Amber Gunn
May 30, 2023
Patino is literally not the stereotypical “attorney” we all think about. He is caring and real and honest and trustworthy. He fights for his clients like he would fight for himself. It’s what we all expect but very rarely see or get! We have used him twice now, and he’s just stellar. Don’t doubt this man. He’s amazing! And you get what you pay for!
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