Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most disturbing consequences of car accidents, often leaving victims with permanent cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. In one notable real-life case, a person was struck by an SUV while walking on the sidewalk and suffered a severe brain injury. Although he survived, his life and the lives of his family members were permanently changed. His legal team, including a brain injury lawyer, ultimately secured a $3.5 million settlement to help cover the long-term medical costs.
For victims in Los Angeles, understanding how TBIs impact your life, your case, and your financial future is essential. This guide explains the full picture including how Howell LLP can help.
Real-Life Case Summary: SUV Hits Pedestrian on Sidewalk
In 2017, a pedestrian walking with his wife on a Charleston sidewalk was struck by an SUV that unexpectedly lurched forward. The victim suffered a skull fracture along with multiple injuries and brain hemorrhages. Though he initially appeared to recover, later scans revealed permanent brain damage and it was diagnosed as bilateral encephalomalacia. The once intellectually gifted man began experiencing cognitive decline, emotional instability, and functional limitations that affected both his career and personal life.
With the help of an experienced brain injury lawyer, the case was settled for $3.5 million.
The Hidden Cost of Brain Injuries: Beyond Medical Bills
In a high-cost region like Los Angeles, the long-term financial burden of a brain injury can be shocking.
Long-Term Medical Needs in Southern California
Top medical centers in L.A. offer advanced brain injury treatment. But this care comes at a cost:
- Ongoing therapy (occupational, speech, physical)
- Psychiatric treatment
- Assistive technology
- Repeated imaging (MRIs, CT scans)
These expenses often continue for years, sometimes for life.
Lost Income and Career Disruption
Los Angeles is filled with professionals, artists, and service industry workers who rely on their mental acuity. TBIs often make it impossible to return to high-functioning roles. Victims may be forced to take low-paying jobs or stop working altogether.
Over time, this means hundreds of thousands, even millions, in lost wages, benefits, and retirement savings.
Modifications to Lifestyle and Housing
Brain injury survivors may require:
- In-home caregivers
- Safety features like railings or medical beds
- Wheelchair-accessible modifications
- Relocation to more accessible housing
In L.A.’s competitive real estate market, these needs represent a major financial strain.
What Makes Brain Injury Lawsuits in Los Angeles Different?
Brain injury claims are legally and medically complex, especially in California’s urban centers like Los Angeles. And a good brain injury lawyer can help you the best.
Invisible but Devastating
TBIs often don’t leave visible scars. A victim may appear “normal,” yet suffer from:
- Memory lapses
- Difficulty concentrating
- Emotional dysregulation
These “invisible injuries” make it easier for insurance companies to deny or minimize claims. That’s why comprehensive documentation and expert testimony are critical.
Use of Top Expert Witnesses in Los Angeles
Unlike minor injury cases, brain injury litigation often requires:
- Neurologists to testify about the injury
- Neuropsychologists to assess cognitive impairment
- Vocational experts to demonstrate loss of earning capacity
- Life care planners to calculate long-term costs
Los Angeles gives every brain injury lawyer access to some of the nation’s top medical and economic experts, which is vital in proving damages.
Larger Settlements—So Defendants Fight Harder
Because brain injuries are high-stakes, insurance companies often hire their own experts to dispute the diagnosis. They may argue:
- The injury is minor
- Symptoms are psychological, not physical.
- Issues pre-date the accident.
Your brain injury lawyer must be prepared to counter with well-supported medical evidence and persuasive expert analysis.
Common Mistakes TBI Victims Make After a Car Accident in Los Angeles
Despite the severity of their injuries, many victims unknowingly hurt their own cases by making preventable mistakes. That’s why consulting car accident lawyers is important. Here are the most common ones:
- Delaying Medical Treatment
TBIs often have delayed symptoms. Victims may not realize they are hurt until days or weeks later. However, insurance adjusters may argue that the delay proves that injury in a car accident was not serious or wasn’t caused by the accident.
Tip: Always go to the ER after a crash and follow up with your primary care physician or a neurologist.
- Failing to Follow Through with Appointments
Missing therapy, skipping evaluations, or stopping medication can make it look like you are “fine” when you are not. Consistency in medical care is crucial for both recovery and litigation.
- Talking to Insurance Companies without Legal Advice
Los Angeles insurers are quick to call and ask for recorded statements. Many victims feel pressured to downplay symptoms or speculate about what happened. These recordings can be used to deny claims.
Tip: Politely decline to speak with adjusters and refer them to your brain injury lawyer.
- Not Documenting Symptoms
It’s hard to prove memory issues, fatigue, or mood swings without documentation. Keep a daily journal of symptoms, emotions, and any challenges you face in daily life.
This helps your legal team and medical experts build a compelling case.
- Hiring an Inexperienced Lawyer
Laws for traumatic brain injury are not the same as a fender-bender claim. You need a firm that:
- Understands neurology and neuropsychology
- Has access to expert witnesses in L.A.
- Knows how to present complex injuries to judges and juries
Howell LLP has a strong track record with complex brain injury litigation throughout Los Angeles and California.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brain Injury Lawsuits in California
Q: How long do I have to file a brain injury lawsuit in California?
You typically have 2 years from the date of the injury, but sooner is always better.
Q: What damages can I claim in a TBI case?
Medical expenses, future care needs, lost income, reduced earning potential, physical pain, emotional suffering, and decreased enjoyment of life.
Q: Can I sue if the injury was partly my fault?
Yes. California uses a comparative fault. Your compensation may be decreased depending on your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages.
Q: Do I have to go to court?
Most TBI cases in Los Angeles settle out of court but your brain injury lawyer must prepare for trial to get a fair settlement.
Q: What if I didn’t feel injured immediately after the accident?
That’s common with TBIs. As long as you seek medical care soon and follow your doctor’s recommendations, your case remains strong.
Why Choose Howell LLP for Your Brain Injury Case in Los Angeles?
At Howell LLP, we specialize in complex personal injury and brain injury cases across Los Angeles and Southern California. What sets us apart:
- Free consultations with zero pressure to hire us
- Contingency-based fees because you don’t pay unless we win
- Deep local knowledge of L.A. courts, medical experts, and insurance tactics
- Compassionate client service and responsive communication
- Proven results, including multi-million dollar brain injury settlements
We understand how devastating TBIs can be, and we fight tirelessly to get you the financial support and justice you deserve.
Conclusion
A traumatic brain injury can turn your entire world upside down. Whether it’s a minor concussion or a life-altering brain bleed, you have the right to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Suffering a brain injury in a car accident can change everything. At Howell LLP, we are here to help you understand your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today and let our experienced brain injury lawyer guide you through the next steps with clarity, confidence, and care.
