San Jose Brain Injury Lawyer

Dedicating our Lives to Improving Yours Since 1984

Traumatic brain injuries occur in accidents when people are either struck on the head or subjected to very rapid acceleration or deceleration. Severe brain damage can be inflicted in many different ways. Serious accidents where head trauma occurs can cause damage – often irreversible – to the soft tissues that make up the brain, one of the most important organs in the human body.

At Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, INC, we have the experience and resources to handle complicated brain injury cases for clients from San Jose and throughout the surrounding areas. Regardless of the type or severity of your brain injury, our top-rated San Jose, CA brain injury lawyer is here to help. Call now to schedule a free case evaluation.

Contact Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm to speak with an experienced San Jose brain injury attorney.

The Effects of Brain Injuries

Many people suffer a head injury for a number of days, weeks or even months without even knowing it. Symptoms of a brain injury often take time to manifest. While you may have walked away from the accident, it is still possible you may have suffered a subtle head injury. These injuries may go undetected by the initial emergency room doctor.

A common prevailing myth around traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) is that such an injury is only sustained when someone is hit on the head or knocked unconscious. While these may be common circumstances that can result in TBI’s, whiplash sustained in automobile or motorcycle accidents is another leading cause of brain injury. Our attorneys understand the nature of these traumas and the impact they can have on your life. If you have sustained brain trauma due to another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

Brain trauma and closed head injuries typically result in the following:

• Short- or long-term memory loss
• Cognitive difficulties
• Physical/psychological disabilities
• Speech impediments
• Social impairments
• Coma
• Death

Certain forms of paralysis also often occur. People suffering from a head injury will require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitative therapy and other long-term care. Some brain injuries can be severe enough to leave a person in need of 24-hour-a-day care.

Unlike common orthopedic injuries easily identified by simple X-ray, there is no bright line to identify many types of brain injuries. Even when such an injury is later detected, the symptoms may seem irrelevant at first. Brain trauma, however, can become progressively more debilitating with age, and even result in permanent disability.

Let Our Compassionate Brain Injury Attorneys in the San Jose Fight for You!

Documenting and proving the extent of someone’s brain injuries and the likely consequences of those injuries over the course of that person’s life can be a major undertaking. Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, INC spends a great deal of time with our clients and their families to understand how their lives have been changed by the injury.

Our team will treat you like family!

We spare no expense to build solid cases in pursuit of our clients’ fair and just compensation. You absolutely need our brain injury attorney who can fight for you in court. Expert testimony from leading neurologists, physical medicine specialists, and rehabilitation specialists may play a vital role in your claim’s success.

We have helped severely injured clients and their families recover full and fair compensation for brain injuries ranging from concussion to coma. Our personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling injury claims ranging from subtle closed head injuries with late-manifesting symptoms to traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Seeking Compensation For Recovery After A Brain Injury

Our trusted San Jose, CA brain injury lawyer understands the life-altering impact that a brain injury can have on individuals and their families. Recovering from a brain injury is often a long and arduous journey, requiring significant medical attention and rehabilitation. Speak with our legal team if you need legal help following your brain injury.

The Devastating Effects Of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries can result from various accidents, including car crashes, slip and falls, sports-related incidents, and workplace accidents. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Regardless of the severity, brain injuries can lead to a wide array of physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges for the injured individual.

Compensation For Medical Expenses

One of the primary concerns following a brain injury is the overwhelming cost of medical care. In California, individuals who have suffered brain injuries due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses. This can include emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation therapies, medication, and assistive devices.

Rehabilitation And Therapy Costs

Recovery from a brain injury often involves extensive rehabilitation and therapy. This may encompass physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and neuropsychological therapy. The costs associated with these services can add up quickly, and seeking compensation is essential to making sure that the injured person receives the necessary care for their recovery.

Lost Wages And Future Earnings

Brain injuries can result in temporary or permanent disabilities that may prevent the injured person from returning to work or performing their job as they did before the injury. Compensation for lost wages and potential future earnings is a critical aspect of any brain injury claim.

Pain And Suffering

Beyond the economic damages, individuals who have suffered brain injuries may also be entitled to compensation for their pain and suffering. This includes the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury, as well as the impact on their overall quality of life.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Dealing with the challenges of brain injury claims in California requires the guidance of seasoned personal injury attorneys. We understand personal injury laws and the importance of building a strong case on behalf of our clients. Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to advocating for the rights of brain injury survivors. We will work tirelessly to gather evidence, consult with medical professionals, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.

Don’t Wait To Seek Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in California and you believe that negligence played a role, it’s vital to take action promptly. Contact our office for a consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We understand the challenges you are facing, and we are here to support you in your journey toward recovery. Call our San Jose brain injury lawyer so that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation needed for your care and recovery after a brain injury.

5 Types Of Traumatic Brain Injuries

If you have suffered from a traumatic brain injury, our San Jose, CA brain injury attorney can help you recover the compensation that you deserve. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have profound and long-lasting effects on a person’s life. Understanding the different types of TBIs and their potential consequences is essential for seeking appropriate medical treatment and legal support in the aftermath of an injury.

Attorney Tab Mitchell and our team have been serving clients in San Jose for over 30 years. We have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you protect your rights after a brain injury. To learn more about our services, contact Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc today.

Concussion

Concussions are one of the most common types of TBIs and occur when the brain undergoes sudden movement within the skull, often due to a blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms of a concussion may include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light and noise. While most concussions resolve with rest and time, repeated concussions can lead to long-term cognitive issues.

Contusion

A brain contusion is a bruise on the brain tissue caused by a direct impact to the head. Contusions can result from car accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Depending on the severity and location of the contusion, symptoms may vary from mild to severe and may include loss of consciousness, cognitive impairment, and motor deficits. Treatment for brain contusions often involves close monitoring and, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Our San Jose brain injury attorney can help you receive the financial compensation that you need to finance any medical care necessary to treat your injuries.

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI)

DAI occurs when the brain’s long connecting fibers, known as axons, are torn or sheared due to rapid acceleration or deceleration forces, such as those experienced in car accidents or shaken baby syndrome. DAI can lead to widespread damage throughout the brain and is often associated with significant cognitive and functional impairments. Rehabilitation and supportive care are essential for managing DAI and maximizing recovery.

Penetrating Injury

Penetrating brain injuries occur when an object pierces the skull and enters the brain tissue. These injuries can result from gunshot wounds, sharp objects, or flying debris in accidents. The severity of penetrating brain injuries varies depending on the size and trajectory of the object and the location of the injury within the brain. Treatment may involve surgery to remove the foreign object and repair damaged tissue.

Coup-Contrecoup Injury

Coup-contrecoup injuries occur when the brain sustains injury at two opposite sides due to a sudden impact. For example, in a car accident, the brain may strike the front of the skull (coup injury) and then rebound and hit the back of the skull (contrecoup injury). This type of injury can result in extensive damage to multiple areas of the brain, leading to cognitive, motor, and behavioral impairments.

Contact Our Brain Injury Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has suffered from any type of traumatic brain injury in San Jose, it’s imperative to seek medical attention immediately and consult with our experienced California brain injury lawyer. Traumatic brain injuries can have devastating long-term effects that can come with expensive long-term costs. Our team will fight hard to win you the money you need to finance your care. Schedule a free and confidential consultation today.

The Importance Of Therapy And Rehabilitation After A Brain Injury

Therapy and rehabilitation are crucial after a brain injury to help regain as much function as possible and improve the quality of life. Brain injuries can affect cognitive abilities, physical skills, and emotional well-being. Rehabilitation aims to address these areas through a tailored program involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychological support. Early and consistent therapy can significantly impact recovery outcomes, helping individuals relearn skills and adapt to any lasting changes. Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, INC has provided outstanding legal services since 1984 and can help with your case.

Types Of Therapies Typically Involved In Brain Injury Rehabilitation

Brain injury rehabilitation often involves several types of therapies, each targeting different aspects of recovery. Physical therapy focuses on improving mobility, strength, and coordination. Occupational therapy helps individuals relearn daily activities and regain independence in tasks such as dressing, cooking, and working. Speech therapy addresses communication issues, including speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. Cognitive therapy focuses on restoring mental functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Psychological support is also essential to address emotional and behavioral challenges that may arise following a brain injury.

How Long It Takes For Rehabilitation Of A Brain Injury

The duration of rehabilitation for a brain injury varies greatly depending on the severity of the injury, the specific areas affected, and the individual’s overall health. Some people may see significant improvements within a few months, while others may require years of ongoing therapy. It’s important to understand that brain injury recovery is a highly individualized process. Progress can be slow, and setbacks are common, but our personal injury lawyer knows that persistence and a positive support system are key. Regular evaluations by healthcare professionals will help adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed to encourage the best possible outcomes.

Seeking Compensation For The Costs Of Therapy And Rehabilitation After A Brain Injury

You can seek compensation for the costs associated with therapy and rehabilitation after a brain injury, especially if the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Compensation can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other related expenses. Working with our skilled attorney is essential to managing the legal process and making sure that all aspects of your injury and recovery are accounted for. We have experience in handling brain injury cases and can help you pursue the compensation needed to support your rehabilitation journey.

How Family Members Impact The Rehabilitation Process After A Brain Injury

Family members play a vital role in the rehabilitation process after a brain injury. Their support can significantly impact the recovery journey. Families often help with daily care, provide emotional support, and assist with therapy exercises at home. They also act as advocates, communicating with healthcare providers and ensuring that the injured individual receives the necessary care and services. Educating family members about the effects of brain injuries and involving them in therapy sessions can enhance their ability to support their loved one effectively.

Get Help Now

If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of therapy and rehabilitation following a brain injury, understanding your rights and options is crucial. Contact us for a free consultation. We have helped recover tens of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients and can help you. We’re here to help you with your legal needs and make sure that you receive the support and compensation necessary for recovery. Speak with our San Jose brain injury lawyer now. 

San Jose Brain Injury Infographic

A Long-Term Hospital Stay After A Brain Injury

Suffering a brain injury can be life-altering, often leading to an extended hospital stay that adds financial strain to an already difficult situation. If you or a loved one is facing a lengthy recovery in the hospital after a brain injury, filing a claim may help cover the costs associated with your care and recovery. Our personal injury legal team is committed to helping clients secure compensation for the significant expenses involved in long-term medical treatment. We have recovered over $500 million on behalf of our clients.

Understanding The Financial Impact Of A Long-Term Hospital Stay

Brain injuries frequently require prolonged medical care, ranging from intensive treatment in the ICU to specialized rehabilitation. A long-term hospital stay means substantial costs for medical care, including room and board, medication, surgeries, and therapeutic interventions. Many patients with serious brain injuries also need ongoing support from a team of healthcare providers, such as neurologists, physical therapists, and psychologists, each adding to the expense.

Insurance policies may cover some of these costs, but coverage is often limited, leaving patients and their families to cover significant out-of-pocket expenses. When a brain injury is due to another party’s negligence, pursuing a legal claim can help you recover the costs of your hospital stay and reduce the financial burden on you and your family.

Establishing Liability In A Brain Injury Case

A key part of filing a claim for a brain injury hospital stay involves proving that another party’s actions caused or contributed to the injury. This process often requires investigating the circumstances surrounding the injury and gathering evidence to establish fault. Whether the injury resulted from a car accident, a workplace incident, or another type of accident, we analyze police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a solid case.

In brain injury cases, the medical documentation of the injury and its immediate impact is imperative. Evidence showing the extent of the injury and its effect on a person’s ability to function often supports a claim for long-term care. When you work with our team, we assess all factors in your case and gather the necessary information to show how the injury has impacted your health and finances.

Calculating Damages For Long-Term Medical Costs

The costs of a brain injury extend far beyond the initial treatment. Filing a claim for a long-term hospital stay means taking into account current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and any ongoing support you may need. In addition to hospital bills, our team calculates the value of your claim by looking at costs associated with future care needs, potential modifications to your home, and assistance with daily activities if the injury has affected your ability to live independently.

So that your claim accurately reflects your financial needs, we work with medical professionals to estimate the total cost of your care. We may also consult with financial experts who can provide a clear projection of how the injury will impact your future, helping us seek fair compensation that considers the full scope of your expenses.

Pursuing Compensation To Support Recovery

Brain injuries often bring about long-term challenges, not only medically but also financially. Pursuing compensation through a claim provides essential support that helps cover the cost of extended medical care, easing some of the burdens that accompany these types of injuries. At Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc., we’re dedicated to helping clients secure the financial resources they need to access quality care and we offer 24/7 live call answering. Speak with our trusted San Jose brain injury lawyer today.

Emotional Disturbances Following A Brain Injury

Brain injuries can have a significant impact on emotional well-being. Beyond the physical symptoms, many individuals experience emotional and behavioral changes that can affect their daily lives and relationships. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we’ve seen how these challenges influence not only the injured person but their loved ones as well. We have over 40 years of experience, so trust us with your case. Here are some common emotional disturbances associated with brain injuries and how they may affect those involved.

Mood Swings

One of the most common emotional effects of a brain injury is unpredictable mood swings. Individuals may go from feeling happy to upset or angry within moments, often with little provocation. These fluctuations can be frustrating for both the person experiencing them and those around them, as they may seem entirely out of character.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety frequently follow brain injuries, either due to the physical effects on the brain or the emotional toll of adjusting to life after the injury. Individuals might feel hopeless, irritable, or excessively worried, which can interfere with recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

Irritability and Anger

Irritability and difficulty controlling anger are also common. After a brain injury, a person’s ability to process frustration or stress may be diminished, leading to more frequent or intense outbursts. This can strain relationships and create challenges in social and work environments.

Emotional Numbness

Some individuals may experience emotional numbness, where they feel disconnected from their own emotions or unable to express them. This lack of emotional response can make it hard for loved ones to engage with the person and may lead to misunderstandings or feelings of isolation.

Increased Sensitivity

Many people with brain injuries become more sensitive to external factors, such as noise, light, or crowded spaces. This heightened sensitivity can trigger emotional responses, such as feeling overwhelmed or upset in situations that were previously manageable.

Difficulty with Empathy

A brain injury can sometimes affect a person’s ability to empathize with others. They may struggle to understand or respond appropriately to the feelings of those around them. This change can impact personal relationships and make it harder to connect with family, friends, or colleagues.

Impulsivity

After a brain injury, some individuals may act without thinking or say things they wouldn’t have before. This impulsivity is often a result of damage to areas of the brain responsible for self-control. It can lead to social misunderstandings or difficulty maintaining relationships.

San Jose Brain Injury Infographic

San Jose Brain Injury Statistics

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) pose significant public health challenges in the United States. Each year, an estimated 2 million Americans sustain a TBI, making it a leading cause of death and disability, particularly among individuals under 45 years old.

An estimated 5.3 million Americans are living with disabilities related to TBI, highlighting the long-term impact of such injuries. These statistics underscore the critical need for effective prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies to address the profound effects of brain injuries on individuals and society.

Get Help With Your Claim Today

Emotional disturbances following a brain injury can have lasting effects on the individual and their loved ones. Recognizing these challenges is an important step in addressing them and seeking support. At Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc, we understand the wide-ranging impact of brain injuries and are committed to helping individuals and families secure the resources they need for recovery. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury and are facing challenges related to emotional or behavioral changes, contact us today. We have earned an AV Preeminent® Rating by Martindale-Hubbell®  for our legal knowledge, communication ability, and more. So trust us with your case. We’re here to help you take the next steps in seeking the support and compensation you deserve. Speak with our trusted brain injury attorney today.

Traumatic Brain Injury FAQs

Our San Jose, CA brain injury lawyer knows that traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can impact various aspects of a person’s life, often in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. The first few weeks after the injury are critical for observing symptoms and addressing any complications that may arise. Knowing what to look for can help protect your loved one’s health and well-being. When you are preparing to file a claim after an accident caused a TBI, it is helpful to know what to expect during a settlement and how you can best monitor your symptoms. We have over 40 years of experience and are ready to help you.

What Are The Most Common Symptoms To Monitor In The Weeks After A TBI?

In the weeks following a TBI, it’s important to monitor for both physical and behavioral changes. Common symptoms include persistent headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and sensitivity to light or sound. Cognitive symptoms, such as memory problems, confusion, and difficulty concentrating, may also appear. Additionally, watch for mood swings, irritability, or signs of depression. If symptoms worsen or new ones develop, medical attention may be needed right away.

When Should We Seek Immediate Medical Attention?

Some symptoms require urgent care to prevent further complications. Seek medical attention if you notice seizures, a sudden worsening of headaches, repeated vomiting, slurred speech, or weakness in the arms or legs. Additionally, if the injured person becomes increasingly confused or has difficulty waking up, it’s essential to act quickly. These could be signs of a more serious issue, such as swelling or bleeding in the brain.

How Can We Support Recovery At Home During This Period?

Rest is a vital part of recovery after a TBI. It’s important to create a calm environment and limit activities that require intense focus, such as extended screen time or mentally demanding tasks. Hydration, proper nutrition, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule also contribute to healing. It’s equally important to monitor the injured person’s emotional well-being and provide reassurance as they recover.

What Should We Do About Returning To Work Or School?

Returning to work or school too soon can hinder recovery. Discuss the timing with healthcare providers and consider a gradual return with lighter responsibilities initially. It may also be helpful to inform employers, teachers, or coaches about the situation so adjustments can be made if needed. Pushing too hard, too soon, could lead to setbacks, so listening to the body’s signals is key.

Are Long-term Symptoms Common, And How Should We Address Them?

While many people recover fully, some may experience lingering symptoms, such as memory issues, fatigue, or changes in mood, even weeks or months after the injury. If symptoms persist, follow up with medical professionals to assess the need for additional treatment or therapy. Early intervention can help manage these challenges and improve the quality of life over time.

San Jose Brain Injury Glossary

If you’re looking for guidance from a San Jose, CA brain injury lawyer, understanding common legal terms connected to brain injury cases can be helpful. At Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc., we work closely with clients to clarify the legal and medical aspects of brain injury claims. Below, we’ve outlined a few terms that often come up during the course of a brain injury case, along with straightforward definitions to support your understanding.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) refers to a disruption in normal brain function caused by an external force, such as a blow to the head, rapid movement like whiplash, or a penetrating injury. TBIs range from mild (like a concussion) to severe (such as coma or permanent disability). The impact of a TBI may affect physical movement, memory, mood, speech, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. TBIs often require long-term care and monitoring, even in cases where initial symptoms appear mild. Medical evaluations, imaging tests, and neurocognitive assessments are typically used to diagnose these injuries.

Closed Head Injury

A closed head injury occurs when the brain suffers internal trauma without a break in the skull. These injuries are common in car crashes, falls, and sports accidents. Unlike open injuries, where there’s a visible wound, closed head injuries can be difficult to detect, often requiring more advanced diagnostic tools such as MRI or CT scans. Symptoms might be delayed and could include confusion, fatigue, personality changes, or sensory disturbances. Our legal team often works with neurologists to help document the extent of the injury and its impact on a person’s daily life and work ability.

Diffuse Axonal Injury

Diffuse Axonal Injury, or DAI, happens when the brain rapidly shifts inside the skull, causing tearing of nerve fibers (axons). This type of injury is commonly associated with high-speed vehicle accidents or violent shaking. DAI tends to affect multiple areas of the brain and may lead to coma or significant long-term cognitive problems. It may not be visible in standard imaging but can still cause serious neurological disruption. In brain injury claims, demonstrating DAI requires input from specialized medical professionals and often becomes a central point of discussion during the legal process.

Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment refers to reduced mental functioning after a brain injury. This can involve problems with memory, attention span, processing speed, reasoning ability, or judgment. Many individuals with brain trauma experience difficulty returning to their previous work or managing daily routines. In legal terms, cognitive impairment often becomes part of the assessment of how an injury has affected a person’s earning capacity and quality of life. When we build a claim, we rely on neuropsychological evaluations and professional assessments to illustrate how these impairments affect long-term outcomes.

Rehabilitation Therapy Costs

Rehabilitation therapy costs refer to the expenses involved in medical treatments intended to restore function and mobility after a brain injury. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and neurocognitive therapy. Such therapy is often necessary for months or even years after the injury, depending on its severity. Insurance coverage may not fully cover these services, so they are frequently included in a claim for financial recovery. We work with medical care providers and economists to estimate the total future value of these services when calculating fair compensation.

Recovering from a brain injury takes more than time—it takes resources and legal support. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, contact Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc. today. Our team is ready to discuss your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc, San Jose Brain Injury Lawyer

1650 Zanker Rd #237, San Jose, CA 95112

Moving Forward After A TBI

The first few weeks following a traumatic brain injury are a critical time for monitoring symptoms and supporting recovery. Recognizing when to seek help and how to aid recovery can make a significant difference in outcomes. At Mitchell & Danoff Law Firm, Inc, we understand how overwhelming this process can feel and are here to support families seeking compensation for medical expenses or other losses related to a TBI and it’s important to understand why you need a lawyer. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a TBI caused by someone else’s actions, contact us today to discuss your legal options. We have recovered over $500 million for our clients. Our San Jose brain injury lawyer is here to help you focus on what matters most: your loved one’s recovery and well-being.

Call (831) 219-2110 to learn more about your legal options in a free case evaluation.