Many accident victims sustain severe traumatic brain injuries due to someone else’s carelessness. This type of injury can happen in many different situations, from car accidents to slips and falls. Although there may not be any visible signs of this injury, it can affect nearly every aspect of how you live your life. These injuries demand immediate medical attention and experienced legal representation.
The Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers represent individuals who have sustained brain injuries due to another party’s negligence. Our firm has served California for over 50 years, recovering compensation for clients who face life-changing harm. We prepare every case for settlement or trial, ensuring your rights are protected.
- Since 1972, we’ve recovered over $2 billion for our clients. See our client testimonials for success stories. Client testimonials reflect individual experiences. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.
- With 14 locations, our team has a deep understanding of California law. Check our proven results and see our commitment to securing fair compensation. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- We work on a contingency fee basis. Legal fees are only paid if compensation is recovered.
Serious Brain Injury Cases Require Experienced Counsel
Jacoby & Meyers focuses on serious personal injury cases throughout California. With 14 locations statewide, our firm provides accessible, litigation-ready representation to clients who need more than a quick settlement. We investigate thoroughly, consult with medical experts when appropriate, and build cases designed to withstand scrutiny from insurers and, if necessary, juries.
If you or someone you care about has sustained a traumatic brain injury in Los Angeles, we can help. Contact us and fill out our form to speak with a member of our team.
Can I Afford a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer?
Traumatic brain injuries often bring severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Recovery can require extended hospitalizations, rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, and modifications to your home or vehicle. Many victims are unable to return to work for months or indefinitely, compounding the financial strain on families already managing mounting medical bills.
You do not need to pay upfront legal fees to pursue compensation. Jacoby & Meyers handles traumatic brain injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- No attorney fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf
- No obligation to pay for initial consultations
- Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, agreed upon before representation begins
This structure allows you to focus on medical treatment and recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.
What To Do After a Traumatic Brain Injury
- Seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations from your healthcare providers.
- Document your injuries through medical records, imaging results, and written accounts of symptoms.
- Avoid providing recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal counsel present.
- Preserve evidence related to the incident, including photographs, witness contact information, and accident reports.
- Consult with a Los Angeles brain injury attorney as early as possible to understand your options and preserve your claim.
Legal Tip from Our Attorneys
Insurance companies evaluating traumatic brain injury claims often rely on outdated assumptions about what constitutes “serious” harm. Unlike fractures or lacerations, brain injuries are not always immediately visible. Symptoms may develop gradually, and the full extent of cognitive or behavioral impairment may not emerge for weeks or months.
Without strong medical documentation and expert analysis, insurers frequently undervalue these claims. They may argue that symptoms are unrelated to the accident, exaggerated, or temporary. That’s why early investigation, detailed medical records, and coordination with neurologists or neuropsychologists are critical to building a credible case. Cases involving diffuse axonal injury, post-concussive syndrome, or permanent cognitive deficits require evidence-driven preparation and a willingness to litigate if necessary.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Los Angeles
Traumatic brain injuries occur when an external force disrupts normal brain function. Unfortunately, this can result in long-term damage or even death. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2020, there were around 214,110 hospitalizations related to traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and 69,473 TBI-related deaths in 2021.
In Los Angeles, the following situations frequently result in head trauma:
- Motor vehicle accidents: High-speed collisions on freeways like the I-10, I-405, or US-101, rear-end crashes in stop-and-go traffic, and rideshare accidents
- Slip and fall incidents: Wet floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, or unmarked hazards in stores, restaurants, parking structures, or public buildings
- Workplace accidents: Falls from heights, falling objects, or equipment malfunctions on construction sites or in industrial settings
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents: Collisions involving cars, buses, or delivery vehicles in high-traffic areas like Downtown LA or Hollywood
- Assaults or violent incidents: Physical altercations resulting in blows to the head
- Defective products: Malfunctioning helmets, car seats, or safety equipment that fail to protect the user
Understanding how your injury occurred is a critical step in determining who may be held responsible.
Common Injuries in Traumatic Brain Injury Cases
Every TBI, regardless of severity, requires immediate medical attention. The consequences of these injuries can be life-altering. The Centers for Disease Control reports that:
- Approximately 50% of TBI sufferers may experience further deterioration in their daily functioning or even die within five years of the injury.
- For those who survive a moderate or severe TBI and undergo inpatient rehabilitation, their life expectancy is typically reduced by 9 years.
- Individuals with moderate to severe TBI often experience a range of persistent, chronic health issues.
These statistics highlight the serious impact a TBI can have. Some of the most common injuries we see include:
- Concussions: Mild traumatic brain injuries that may cause temporary confusion, headaches, or sensitivity to light
- Contusions: Bruising of the brain tissue, often requiring surgery if swelling becomes severe
- Diffuse axonal injuries: Damage to nerve fibers throughout the brain, often resulting from violent shaking or rapid movement.
- Skull fractures: Breaks in the skull that may lead to infection, bleeding, or brain damage
- Hematomas: Blood clots that form inside or around the brain, potentially requiring emergency surgery
- Penetrating injuries: Wounds caused by objects piercing the skull and entering brain tissue
Even injuries that seem minor at first can lead to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairment. A thorough medical evaluation is essential.
Who May Be Liable for Your Traumatic Brain Injury?
After suffering a traumatic brain injury, victims often ask if they can hold the at-fault party responsible for their injuries. In California, a personal injury case requires proving that the defendant was negligent.
Establishing negligence involves four key elements:
- Duty of care: First, you must show that the other party owed you a duty to act with reasonable care, such as a driver’s duty to follow traffic laws.
- Breach of duty: Second, you must prove the defendant failed to meet this standard of care. Examples include driving while intoxicated or failing to warn of a property hazard.
- Causation: Third, you must establish a direct link between the other party’s breach of duty and your accident and injuries.
- Damages: Finally, you must show you suffered financial losses from the incident, such as medical bills, lost income, and rehabilitation costs.
Possible Liable Parties
Liability in a traumatic brain injury case depends on the circumstances of your accident. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility. Potential defendants include:
- Drivers: Those who cause accidents through distracted driving, speeding, running red lights, or driving under the influence
- Property owners: Landlords, business owners, or property managers who fail to maintain safe premises or warn visitors of known hazards
- Employers: Companies that fail to provide proper safety equipment, training, or oversight in dangerous work environments
- Manufacturers: Producers of defective vehicles, safety gear, or consumer products that fail to perform as intended
- Government entities: City, county, or state agencies responsible for maintaining roads, sidewalks, public transit, or other infrastructure
Identifying all potentially liable parties is essential to pursuing compensation that reflects the overall damages you experienced.
Why This Case Type Is Legally Complex
Traumatic brain injury cases often involve legal and factual challenges that require experienced representation. Some of the most common complexities include:
- Multiple potentially liable parties, including individuals, businesses, and government entities
- Disputed fault under California’s comparative negligence rules, which allow defendants to argue the victim shares responsibility
- Medical causation issues require expert testimony to link the injury to the accident.
- Evidence that may be lost, overwritten, or altered without early preservation, including surveillance footage, vehicle data, or incident reports
- Insurance coverage disputes, including policy limits, exclusions, or coordination between multiple insurers
An experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer knows how to handle these complexities. They will take early, decisive action to build a strategic case that protects your rights and your recovery.
Our Personal Injury Case Results
Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:
$19 Million
Ride Share Passenger
V.
Auto/Quadriplegic
$17.5 Million
Bike
V.
Truck/Paraplegic
$13 Million
Wrongful Death
V.
City
Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.
Damages You May Be Entitled To
If another party’s negligence caused your traumatic brain injury, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages:
- Past and future medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, and rehabilitation
- Lost income from time missed at work during recovery
- Reduced earning capacity if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job or career
- Costs of assistive devices, home modifications, or in-home care
- Transportation expenses related to medical treatment
Non-Economic Damages:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress
- Loss of enjoyment of life and inability to participate in activities you once valued
- Permanent disability or disfigurement resulting from the injury
The full value of your claim depends on the severity of your injury, the impact on your life, and the strength of the evidence supporting your case. A brain injury attorney can assess the overall impact of the injury to seek compensation that helps with your recovery.
California Statute of Limitations for Traumatic Brain Injury Cases
California law sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.
However, certain circumstances may shorten or extend this deadline:
- Claims against government entities must be filed within six months of the injury in most cases
- Delayed discovery may extend the deadline if symptoms or the injury were not immediately apparent
- Minors may have additional time to bring a claim after reaching adulthood
Missing the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to pursue compensation entirely. If you’ve been injured, contact a trusted traumatic brain injury lawyer immediately to discuss your timeline and legal options.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Traumatic Brain Injury Cases
Traumatic brain injuries are among the most serious and costly personal injury claims. Without legal representation, you may face significant obstacles. For instance, insurance companies routinely undervalue TBI claims, especially when symptoms are not immediately visible or are difficult to quantify.
An experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer can handle negotiations, gather evidence, work with medical experts, and prepare your case for trial if necessary. This allows you to focus on recovery while protecting your legal rights.
A Legal Expert’s Role in TBI Cases
- Evaluating the claim’s value: Lawyers assess the full extent of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, future care needs, pain, and suffering.
- Gathering evidence: They collect medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to build a strong case.
- Engaging medical experts: Attorneys work with neurologists, neuropsychologists, and other specialists to provide testimony on the severity of the injury and its long-term effects.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Lawyers use their expertise to counter lowball settlement offers and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
- Preparing the case for trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they are ready to take the case to court and represent your interests effectively.
- Providing support and guidance: An experienced lawyer offers compassionate advice, keeping you informed through each step of the process and ensuring your rights are protected.
How Jacoby & Meyers Builds Your Traumatic Brain Injury Case
When you hire Jacoby & Meyers, you gain a legal team with over 50 years of experience representing serious injury victims across California. Here’s how we approach your case:
1. Initial Case Evaluation
We meet with you to discuss the details of your accident, review your medical records, and assess the strength of your claim. This consultation is free and confidential.
2. Evidence Collection and Investigation
Our team gathers all available evidence, including accident reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions. We act quickly to preserve evidence before it’s lost or destroyed.
3. Damage Documentation
We work with medical professionals, economists, and vocational experts to document the full scope of your damages, including future medical care, lost earning capacity, and non-economic losses.
4. Insurance Negotiations
We handle all communication with insurance companies and present a demand supported by evidence and legal analysis. Our goal is to secure fair compensation without unnecessary delay.
5. Litigation and Trial Preparation
If negotiations do not result in a fair settlement, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. Our litigation team has the experience and resources to advocate for you in court.
Every case is different. We tailor our approach to your specific circumstances and goals.
How to Choose the Right Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer in Los Angeles
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can alter every aspect of your life, including your memory, personality, ability to work, and overall independence. These cases often involve complex medical evidence and long-term care needs. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize symptoms, especially when they are not immediately visible on imaging.
The right Los Angeles traumatic brain injury attorney will approach your case with careful investigation, medical insight, and strategic preparation from the outset.
Experience With Brain Injury Cases
TBI claims are medically and legally complex. Your attorney should have experience handling cases involving:
- Concussions and post-concussion syndrome
- Moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries
- Cognitive and memory impairments
- Personality or behavioral changes
- Long-term therapy, neurological care, and life-care planning
Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured Californians for decades and recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements in serious injury cases. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Understanding of California Law and Deadlines
A qualified Los Angeles attorney should be familiar with:
- Local court procedures and filing requirements
- Proving causation in brain injury cases
- Insurance defense tactics used to dispute invisible injuries
- Strict filing deadlines, especially when public entities are involved
Reputation and Professional Credibility
In high-value brain injury cases, a firm’s reputation matters. Established, recognized attorneys are often taken more seriously during negotiations. Jacoby & Meyers attorneys have been recognized by different organizations.
Trial Readiness
Traumatic brain injury claims can involve significant long-term damage. A firm prepared to present expert medical testimony before a jury strengthens your position if fair settlement discussions are not offered.
Selecting the right traumatic brain injury lawyer in Los Angeles can play an essential role in protecting your medical future, financial stability, and quality of life.
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What to Bring to Your First TBI Consultation
Recovering from a traumatic brain injury can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need every document to get started. Even a few details are enough for us to begin protecting your rights immediately.
If you have them, bring:
- Medical records, discharge summaries, and bills related to your injury
- Imaging results (CT scans, MRIs) and neurologist notes
- Photos or videos of the accident and your injuries
- A police or incident report
- Insurance details and any communication from adjusters
- Proof of missed work or out-of-pocket expenses
- Notes on symptoms like memory loss, headaches, dizziness, or mood changes
If you don’t have everything yet, that’s okay. We can help gather the necessary records and coordinate documentation. The most important step is reaching out to us early to protect your claim while you focus on recovery.
Client Testimonials
We build lasting relationships on trust and reliability, supporting clients through tough challenges.
“Having Jacoby and Meyers handling my case has been a great experience, especially with great people working for them like Abigail Maldonado, who has exceeded my expectations in the last stage of my case. She kept me constantly updated and answered every question I ever had regarding my case. I would give her 10 stars if I could.” Elliot Cureno from Google Review
Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.
What Our Clients Have To Say
“Best firm there is. This Firm has been very helpful throughout the entire process. Adanhelly was been one of the best!!. Very helpful, and she sincerely makes me feel valued and taken care of. I highly recommend this law firm to EVERYBODY!”
– Ali M.
“Jacob & Meyers is the best, they handled our case immediately. Thank you for caring about us and getting us through this horrible thing that happened to us. Emily and the team are top-notch. If you’re looking for the best lawyers to fight for you, look no further; they will take care of your case.“
– Leslie J.
A History of Winning for Our Clients
For more than 50 years, Jacoby & Meyers has helped clients across California recover compensation for TBI claims and other personal injury cases.
- $3.75 Million – Traumatic Brain Injury
- $2.5 Million – Traumatic Brain Injury
- $3.67 Million – Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- $17.5 Million – Bike V. Truck / Paraplegic
Read our case studies to learn how we protect our clients’ rights.
Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is evaluated based on its unique facts and evidence.
Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer Near Me
Jacoby & Meyers represents traumatic brain injury victims throughout Los Angeles County and across California. Our 14 office locations allow us to provide local service with statewide reach.
No matter where your accident occurred, our team is available to meet with you and discuss your case.
See the areas we serve here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common symptoms of a TBI?
Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, mood changes, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, and difficulty concentrating. Some symptoms appear immediately, while others develop days or weeks later.
What if my symptoms appeared days or weeks after the accident?
Delayed symptoms are common with traumatic brain injuries. California law recognizes the “discovery rule,” which may extend the statute of limitations if you did not immediately discover your injury or its cause. Medical documentation is critical in these cases.
Can I still file a claim if I didn’t go to the hospital right away?
Yes, but delaying medical treatment can make it harder to prove your case. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not serious or were caused by something other than the accident. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if symptoms seem minor.
How do you prove a TBI in a legal claim?
Proof typically involves medical records, imaging studies, neuropsychological testing, expert medical testimony, and documentation of how the injury affects your daily life and ability to work.
What if the person who injured me doesn’t have insurance?
You may still have options. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, pursue compensation from other liable parties, or explore alternative sources of recovery.
How long will my case take?
The timeline depends on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take a year or longer. We keep you informed throughout the process.
How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means we only collect our attorney fees if we recover compensation for you, which will be deducted from the settlement.
For more information, visit our FAQ page.
Directory
Emergency Rooms
- Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center– 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
- Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
- Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center– 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
- Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Urgent Care Centers
- Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
- First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd, Tujunga, CA 91042
- Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
- H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
- Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Local Courthouses
- Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Cienega, Los Angeles, CA 90045
- Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.
Get the Legal Help You Need
A traumatic brain injury can affect every part of your life. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you have the right to pursue compensation for your damages.
At Jacoby & Meyers, we have over 50 years of experience representing serious injury victims across California. Our team is prepared to investigate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to trial if necessary.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 by phone, through our online contact form, or via live chat. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.
Attorney Review & Office Information
Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.
Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067
24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792
Other Cases We Take On
- Car Accidents
- Personal Injury
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Slip and Fall Accidents
- Dog Bites
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Scooter Accidents
- Premises Liability
- Hit and Run Accidents
- Construction Accidents
- Boat Accident
- Bicycle Accidents
- Paraplegia Injury
- Brain Injuries
- Catastrophic Injuries
- Burn Injuries
- Wrongful Death
- Laceration Injury
- Orthopedic Injury
- Whiplash Injury
- Amputations
- Broken Bone Injuries
- Neck Injuries
- Quadriplegia Injury
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Back Injury
- Rideshare Accidents
Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude