Write a Review
google screened check markGOOGLE SCREENED

ACTS Law Partner Boris Treyzon Named Top 100 Attorney in California by Daily Journal

FREE CONSULTATION 833-ACTS-LAWopens phone dialer

Header Right

FREE CONSULTATION
833-ACTS-LAWopens phone dialer
Write a Review
Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Settling a California Traumatic Brain Injury Case 


Filed Under: Traumatic Brain Injuries

It is never simple to live with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even survivors of supposedly “minor” brain injuries might experience long-term consequences that affect their life and ability to support themselves for years to come. The difficulties, expenses, and effects are much more severe for persons who have suffered more serious traumatic brain injuries.

According to California law, those who sustain TBIs as a result of someone else’s negligence are entitled to make a personal injury claim to recover damages for their losses. A successful TBI settlement or verdict can give victims and their loved ones the money they need to start over and plan for the future.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)? 

When the brain is damaged by a sudden trauma, it is likely that a person will suffer a traumatic brain injury. TBIs can happen when the head strikes something suddenly and violently or when something pierces the skull and enters the brain. 

Headache, disorientation, lightheadedness, dizziness, blurred vision or sleepy eyes, ringing in the ears, a terrible taste in the mouth, exhaustion or lethargy, a change in sleep patterns, behavioral or mood changes, and issues with memory, concentration, attention, or thinking are other signs of moderate TBIs.

Traumatic brain injury can be in classifications from moderate to more severe. More severe TBIs have the same symptoms as moderate TBIs but with additional ailments such as seizures, slurred speech, loss of coordination, and in some cases, a coma. 

California Traumatic Brain Injury Statistics

A traumatic brain injury, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), is a disruption in the brain’s normal function that can be brought on by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head or by a penetrating head injury. According to the California Department of Rehabilitation, about 1.7 million Americans experience this every year. TBIs are responsible for 53,000 fatalities, 235,000 hospital admissions, and 1.1 million ER visits annually. Non-traumatic brain injuries (NTBI) and traumatic brain injuries are different.

In California, traffic accidents account for the majority of TBI-related fatalities in people between the ages of 5 and 24. Additionally, more than 251,000 Californians received TBI treatment and were discharged (rather than hospitalized) in the most recently reported year.

Traumatic Brain Injury in California News

A California jury ordered Albertsons grocery store to pay $4.3 million to a man who slipped on a wet floor and broke his nose, sustaining a traumatic brain injury. The victim slipped on water that had pooled on the floor close by while he was shopping in the meat section of the store, according to the local media. He struck his head on the floor after falling face down, breaking his nose in the process.

The victim said he was having memory problems and losing his sense of taste and smell months after the occurrence. It was later determined that the victim suffered a “subdural hematoma.” He subsequently needed surgery to remove fluid from his head, but the effects of a traumatic brain injury persisted.

Contact the Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP

At Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury. Our skilled Los Angeles brain injury attorneys are committed to obtaining the fair compensation you deserve. Contact a qualified brain injury attorney today for a free consultation online or by calling (833) ACTS-LAW. 

Linking Traumatic Brain Injuries and Mental Health Disabilities


Filed Under: Traumatic Brain Injuries

Linking Traumatic Brain Injuries and Mental Health Disabilities

It is well documented that a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can directly cause disabilities and mental health issues, since a blow to the head often impacts more than one area of the brain.

The Brain Injury Association of America notes that the highest prevalence of mental health struggles caused by a brain injury includes depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and many emotional changes (which are often described as personality changes).

We recently discussed the various ways in which TBIs can occur, but many victims who suffer from resulting mental health issues are not aware they may qualify for disability benefits. In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month (#MHAM), which is held annually in May, we also aspire to inform the public by exploring the most common emotional, cognitive, and psychological struggles linked with TBIs. 

Depression 

A major depressive disorder involves a consistently depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities for at least two weeks. 

Depression is quite common following TBIs. The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center estimates that nearly half of all people with TBIs are affected by depression within the first year after injury. Nearly two-thirds are affected within seven years after injury. Changes in the levels of certain natural chemicals in the brain, called neurotransmitters, can cause depression. It can also be triggered by someone’s emotional struggle to adjust to their disability or the change in their family dynamic. 

Anxiety 

Clinical anxiety extends beyond general stress. It is a medical disorder defined by excessive feelings of worry, persistent or even intrusive thoughts about certain fears, or constant fear in general.

  • Difficulty reasoning and concentrating can make it hard for the person with a TBI to solve problems. This can make the person feel overwhelmed, especially if he or she is being asked to make decisions.
  • The demands of work (or returning to work) and time pressure can trigger feelings of anxiety in someone who sustained a TBI.  
  • Situations that require a lot of attention and information processing can make people with TBIs anxious. Examples of such situations include crowded or noisy environments or heavy traffic.

PTSD 

Many people who suffer a TBI also develop PTSD, which is difficult to diagnose because physical and mental signs of the injury might not be immediately evident. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notes that many of the symptoms which result from a TBI reflect those of PTSD. For these reasons, the VA suggests the best way to diagnose a TBI is to meet with a skilled clinician.

Aphasia 

Aphasia is a cognitive condition that limits a person’s ability to communicate. Understanding and relaying information becomes a challenge. Aphasia.org notes that depending on the severity of the trauma, aphasia due to TBIs could be transient or more permanent, and is often accompanied by other cognitive problems since multiple areas of the brain are usually affected.

Actor Bruce Willis announced his retirement due to his aphasia diagnosis. While the cause of his condition is not yet made public, it shined a light on the communication disorder, which the National Aphasia Association says affects roughly 2 million people in the U.S. and is more common than Parkinson’s Disease, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, but less than half of them receive treatment. While not everyone dies from a TBI, they will live with mental health issues. Identifying the signs of mental health disabilities caused by a TBI can help the injured person and the families secure justice, adequate compensation and create long-term plans. 

HOW CAN ABIR COHEN TREYZON SALO HELP ME?

Insurance companies try to find ways to deny an injured claimant or compensate them much less than they deserve. To secure the maximum coverage from your insurance plan, contact an experienced lawyer who understands brain injuries and mental health disabilities, knows what your insurance policy covers, and will negotiate. If you or your loved one suffers from a TBI, contact our Los Angeles insurance lawyers at ACTS Law. We can help you receive maximum benefits from your insurance company in an effort to help you live as comfortably as possible. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 833-ACTS-LAW or contact us online. With offices located in Los Angeles and San Diego, we serve clients throughout Southern California.

Adjusting After a Traumatic Brain Injury


Filed Under: Car Accidents, Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when someone experiences a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. These are often caused by falls, car accidents, and serious sports injuries. TBIs can also occur when an object penetrates the brain tissue. Gunshot wounds, combat injuries, and other types of violent acts can cause these types of TBIs. Symptoms can vary greatly depending on whether the TBI is mild or severe, but even mild TBIs can compromise a person’s general quality of life. Victims of TBIs often face an uphill road to recovery, and some may suffer permanent deficits. However, there are proactive steps TBI victims can take that will help them adjust to life after their injury. An LA catastrophic injury lawyer can help determine the cause of the TBI and fight to recover all entitled financial compensation.

What are the Common Symptoms of TBIs?

There are a wide range of symptoms that people with TBIs can experience, depending on the nature of the injury. Some people may have symptoms for days, whereas others can suffer from debilitating symptoms for weeks or longer. TBI symptoms fall into the following four categories:

  • Thinking/remembering: These symptoms can include difficulty thinking clearly, feeling slowed or sluggish, difficulty concentrating, or having a hard time remembering information.
  • Physical: These symptoms include headaches, fuzzy or blurry vision, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, sensitivity to light or noise, balance problems, and fatigue.
  • Emotional/mood: TBIs can also cause irritability, depression, heightened emotions, nervousness, and anxiety.
  • Sleep: People with TBIs can also experience sleep issues, including sleeping more than usual, getting too little sleep, and having trouble falling asleep.

 How Do I Know if I Have a Moderate to Severe TBI?

All head injuries should be checked out as soon as possible by a health care professional to determine the severity of the injury. The following are common symptoms of a mild TBI:

Physical symptoms

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Appearing dazed, confused, or disoriented
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Speech difficulties
  • Trouble sleeping, or sleeping more than usual
  • Loss of balance

Sensory symptoms

  • Blurred vision
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Loss of smell
  • Sensitivity to light or sound

Cognitive symptoms

  • Difficulty concentrating and remembering things
  • Mood changes
  • Feeling anxious or depressed

The following symptoms are associated with moderate to severe TBIs; they can appear within hours or days of a head injury:

Physical symptoms

  • Loss of consciousness for up to several hours
  • Persistent headache
  • Numb fingers and toes
  • Seizures
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dilated pupils
  • Clear fluid coming out of the nose or ears
  • Loss of coordination
  • Inability to wake up from sleeping

Cognitive symptoms

  • Significant confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Agitation and combativeness
  • Loss of consciousness

When is It Necessary to Seek Immediate Medical Attention for a TBI?

It is highly recommended that individuals who suffer a head injury seek medical attention to rule out a serious injury. However, if any of the following symptoms appear, the person suffering from a TBI should be taken to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible:

  • Slurred speech
  • One pupil is larger than the other
  • Unable to recognize people or places
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • Becoming increasingly agitated, confused, or restless
  • Loss of consciousness

Facing the Challenges of the Recovery Process

Adjusting to life after a brain injury can be a challenging and overwhelming process, particularly if the injury was moderate to severe. Oftentimes, patients do not know how to navigate everyday life when they are dealing with physical, emotional, or cognitive deficits. The road to recovery can be a long and difficult one, but the following tips were developed by health care professionals and brain injury experts to help victims of TBIs adjust to life after a brain injury:

  • Change the definition of success. After a brain injury, it is important to redefine success when it comes to everyday activities. Things that used to be accomplished without a second thought may now require much more effort and concentration. Patients should establish reasonable goals and focus on the small successes. They should be proactive about setting realistic standards. Having friends, family, and loved ones around to show their support and encouragement can be helpful as well.
  • Do not be afraid to ask for help. Oftentimes, people hesitate to ask for help because they do not want to be a burden to their friends or family. Recovering from a brain injury will require hard work, and everyone needs help at some point during the recovery process. Those recovering should not wait to ask for help until the situation has become a serious health crisis.
  • Allow the body to heal. It can take a significant amount of time to recover from a brain injury. It is normal to feel frustrated and disappointed if the recovery process takes longer than expected. However, it is important that victims of TBIs show the same kindness and compassion to themselves that they would to a friend or a loved one, and that they allow their body time to heal. Getting frustrated, impatient, and angry will only make the process more difficult.
  • Get mental health support. Those who suffered a TBI often experience depression, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. Mental health professionals who specialize in treating patients with TBIs can provide effective tools to manage these issues or provide medication if necessary.
  • Consider different career options. This may not always be necessary, but if a TBI is more severe, it can cause permanent physical or cognitive deficits that will make returning to the same job difficult, if not impossible. If this is the case, there are career counselors that can help carve out a new career path. Depending on the individual’s financial situation, part-time work may be a better option.
  • Have an open, honest discussion about finances. Treatment for TBIs can take weeks, months, even years, depending on the severity of the injury. The costs associated with this treatment can accumulate quickly, particularly when a patient requires long-term care from physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists. It is important to have an honest conversation about treatment expectations, whether financial support will be needed, and if the patient will be unable to live alone or meet other basic responsibilities due to the injury. The more information that friends and family members have about the patient’s financial situation, the better prepared they will be to take the appropriate steps to help.
  • Set realistic goals. To avoid becoming overwhelmed by the recovery process and the hurdles that lie ahead, it is best to break down larger goals into small, more attainable goals. Small successes can build confidence and provide the motivation necessary to reach the next goal.
  • Create a support system. After a brain injury, the recovery process will likely be more successful if there is a solid support system in place. Whether that is family, close friends, therapists, or a combination of all three, a support system can help prevent depression, loneliness, and feelings of isolation. There are also support groups that TBI patients can join as it may help to talk to people who are going through a similar experience.
  • Be patient. Sometimes this is more easily said than done, but it is essential for people recovering from a brain injury to be patient. When feelings of frustration and anger take over, patients need to find effective relaxation tools to gain control of those feelings. Deep breathing exercises or repeating an affirmation can help.

How can I Prevent a TBI?

The following proactive safety steps can help reduce the risk of serious accidents that cause TBIs:

  • Always wear a seat belt. Seat belts save lives and can reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a car accident.
  • Do not drive while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or prescription medication that can cause drowsiness.
  • When riding a bicycle, motorcycle, skateboard, snowmobile, or any other all-terrain vehicle, always wear a helmet.
  • To prevent serious falls around the house, install handrails in bathrooms and on both sides of the staircase, improve the lighting in the home, remove clutter, undergo regular eye examinations, and remove area rugs.

LA Catastrophic Injury Lawyers at ACTS Law Assist Victims of Traumatic Brain Injuries

If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), do not hesitate to contact the LA catastrophic injury lawyers at ACTS Law. We understand how devastating these injuries can be, and that treatment can be very costly. Our skilled and dedicated legal team will work closely with you to review your medical records, walk you through the claims process, and fight to recover the financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 833-ACTS-LAWopens phone dialer or contact us online. With offices located in San Diego and Los Angeles, we serve clients throughout Southern California.

Who is Liable in a Catastrophic Injury?


Filed Under: Catastrophic Injury, Product Liability, Traumatic Brain Injuries

A catastrophic injury can significantly affect a person’s physical body, cognitive status, ability to work, and their independence. This type of injury commonly requires emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and ongoing physical or cognitive rehabilitation, and can result in temporary or permanent disability. Catastrophic injuries are likely to limit a victim’s earning potential or prohibit them from returning to work.

Medical costs and lost wages connected to a catastrophic injury can quickly devastate a victim’s financial health. Liability for a catastrophic injury can be shared among several negligent parties, including employers, manufacturers, and distributors of defective equipment, negligent property owners, and even doctors and hospitals.

Types of Catastrophic Injury

A catastrophic injury is one that significantly impacts a victim’s life. Common types of catastrophic injury include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Head injuries that result in cognitive, mood, and physical impairment
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Loss of vision
  • Loss of hearing
  • Mobility issues
  • Amputations or loss of limbs
  • Disfigurement
  • Burn injuries
  • Chronic lung damage and lung disease
  • Electrocution
  • Heart Disease
  • Cancer

Catastrophic injury can result in a multitude of consequences for the victim, which include:

  • Medical expenses, both current and future
  • Psychological damage
  • Physical and cognitive deficits
  • Loss of independence and inability to manage the tasks of daily living, including dressing oneself, toileting issues, hygiene, cooking, and eating
  • Lost income
  • Loss of future earning potential
  • Permanent disfigurement
  • Pain and suffering
  • Poor quality of life
  • Punitive damages
  • Loss of life

When a catastrophic injury limits a victim’s ability to earn a living or to live independently, compensation can be awarded through a personal injury lawsuit, premises liability lawsuit, or product liability lawsuit.

Determining Liability for a Catastrophic Injury

The burden of proof in a personal injury, product liability, or premises liability lawsuit falls on the plaintiff and requires proof that the defendant’s negligence directly resulted in their injury. This is not always easy to prove, even when it seems obvious that negligence was present. Large insurance companies, businesses, manufacturers, distributors, and medical facilities typically have large legal teams on retainer to fight such claims.

An experienced and qualified catastrophic injury lawyer can assess the client’s case, gather pertinent evidence to support the claim, and prove that the negligence of the responsible party directly caused their client’s injury. A lawyer will also be able to determine if there are multiple parties liable for injuries. For example, a person that suffers a catastrophic injury from an accident with a commercial truck may be able to hold the trucking company, the truck driver, and the manufacturer of a defective mechanical part liable for the injuries.

LA Catastrophic Injury Lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP Help Victims of Catastrophic Injury Claim Compensation

If you suffered a catastrophic injury, contact the LA catastrophic injury lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP today. We will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call us at 833-ACTS-LAWopens phone dialer or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Los Angeles and San Diego, we serve clients throughout California.

Brain Injury due to Car Accident


Filed Under: Car Accidents, Traumatic Brain Injuries

A car accident can lead to serious and sometimes catastrophic injuries. One of the most devastating injuries that can result from a car accident is a brain injury.  Some brain injuries are minor and resolve over time, but others are more serious and can result in permanent disability. There are several different types of brain injuries that can occur in a car accident.

Traumatic Brain Injury: A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the impact of a car accident causes a person’s brain to slam against the inside of the skull. When this happens, permanent injury can occur to the brain and result in significant physical and cognitive deficits. Victims of TBI often experience memory loss, depression, seizures, confusion, agitation, or aggression.

Concussion: A concussion can be minor or severe depending on the force of impact in a car accident. Victims of concussion require rest and time for the brain to recover from the bruising and swelling that occurred. Headaches, vision disturbances, attentional issues, and dizziness are commonly associated with a concussion.

Contusions: This type of injury results in localized bleeding in the brain caused by an impact to the head. When a car accident occurs, the victim may be thrust into a solid object, such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or front seat. This impact can cause the brain to tear slightly and bleed, causing bruising and clotting. In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove a blood clot that has formed in the brain.

Penetration Injuries: Shattered windshields, twisted metal, and flying debris are common in car accidents. Victims can incur penetration injuries when sharp objects, such as glass or metal shards, are forced into the skull and brain. When this happens, serious injury can occur that requires surgery to remove the objects in the brain and repair damaged tissue.

Oxygen Deprivation: Brain injuries resulting from oxygen deprivation can be catastrophic. Cell death within the brain begins immediately and if oxygen is not administered quickly, permanent brain damage and death are likely.

Consequences of a Brain Injury

The brain controls all our bodily functions and life activities, and when an injury to the brain occurs, there are consequences. The most common consequences include:

  • Mobility issues due to loss of balance or coordination
  • Speech deficits
  • Short-term memory loss
  • Amnesia
  • Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
  • Tremors
  • Sensory impairment
  • Seizures
  • Fatigue
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Visual and hearing impairment
  • Reduced concentration and attention
  • Impaired reasoning and empathy
  • Executive functioning deficits
  • Confusion
  • Emotional imbalance
  • Agitation or aggression

Anyone involved in a car accident should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out the possibility of a brain injury. Symptoms are often masked by the stress and emotions of a car accident, or by other physical injuries. Quick diagnosis and treatment for a brain injury is vital to recovery.

Los Angeles Catastrophic Injury Lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP Represent Car Accident Victims Suffering Brain Injuries

If you suffered a brain injury as a result of a car accident, contact the Los Angeles catastrophic injury lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP today. We will fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call us at 833-ACTS-LAWopens phone dialer or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Los Angeles and San Diego, we serve clients throughout California.

A Message to Our Clients About Coronavirus COVID-19:
PLEASE READ »

A Message to Our Clients About Coronavirus COVID-19

At Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP, we view the safety and well-being of our clients, staff and business partners as our highest priority.

The situation regarding the COVID-19 virus is continually changing, and we are following all recommended guidelines to stay healthy.

Currently, our law firm is remaining open to serve your legal needs.

We are happy to arrange for phone or video consultations should you have any concerns about keeping your scheduled appointments with us. We are also able to exchange documents via secure drives or email.

Should you have any concerns regarding an upcoming meeting with us, please contact us online or call (833) ACTS-LAW.

Thank you and take care.