Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe and life-altering injuries one can endure. At Vaughn Wamsley, we understand the profound impact a TBI can have on victims and their families. As dedicated personal injury lawyers in Lawrence, IN, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support to those affected by such injuries.
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries
A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force causes brain dysfunction, typically resulting from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term complications or even death.
According to the Indiana University School of Medicine, an estimated 1.7 million people sustain a TBI each year in the United States, resulting in approximately 52,000 deaths and 275,000 hospitalizations.
Prevalence of TBIs in Indiana
In Indiana, TBIs are a significant public health concern. The Indiana State Department of Health reported that in 2016, there were 6,726 TBI-related hospitalizations, equating to an incidence rate of 101.4 per 100,000 residents.
Notably, individuals aged 65 and older accounted for about 48% of these hospitalizations. Additionally, men experienced TBI hospitalizations at a higher rate (124.7 per 100,000 residents) than women.
Common Causes of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries can result from various incidents, including:
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, or trucks are leading causes of TBIs. In Indiana, motor vehicle crashes accounted for approximately 14% of TBI-related hospitalizations in 2016.
Falls: Unintentional falls are particularly prevalent among older adults and are responsible for a significant portion of TBI’s. In 2016, falls accounted for 46% of TBI-related hospitalizations in Indiana.
Sports Injuries: Contact sports and recreational activities can lead to concussions and other brain injuries, especially among younger individuals.
Workplace Accidents: Industries involving construction, manufacturing, and transportation pose higher risks for head injuries due to falls, equipment-related accidents, and other hazards.
Symptoms and Long-Term Effects of TBIs
The symptoms of a TBI can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury:
Mild TBI (Concussion): Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and temporary loss of consciousness. While these symptoms are often short-term, some individuals experience prolonged issues known as post-concussion syndrome.
Moderate to Severe TBI: Individuals may experience persistent headaches, repeated vomiting, seizures, inability to awaken from sleep, dilation of one or both pupils, slurred speech, and profound confusion. Long-term effects can include cognitive impairments, emotional and behavioral changes, and physical disabilities.
Prompt medical attention is crucial to assessing and mitigating a TBI’s impact.
Vaughn Knows What You Are Going Through
You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
Time Is Not On Your Side After An Accident. Call Vaughn Wamsley NOW.
Navigating the legal landscape following a TBI can be complex. In Indiana, several laws are particularly relevant:
Statute of Limitations: Victims have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the claim is against a city or county, the timeframe is reduced to 180 days; for claims against the state, it is 270 days.
Comparative Fault Rule: Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system. If a plaintiff is found partially responsible for their injuries, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. They are barred from recovering damages if they are more than 50% at fault.
Pursuing Compensation for a TBI
As experienced TBI attorneys in Lawrence, we are dedicated to helping clients pursue the compensation they deserve. Potential damages in a TBI case may include:
Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and therapy.
Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work during recovery and potential loss of earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Handling a TBI case requires a deep understanding of medical and legal complexities. Our team at Vaughn Wamsley is equipped to:
Investigate the Incident: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case.
Negotiate with insurance companies: Advocate on your behalf to ensure fair compensation and counter tactics that aim to minimize payouts.
Litigate if Necessary: Represent you in court to pursue the best possible outcome if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Why Choose Vaughn Wamsley?
As a dedicated personal injury lawyer in Lawrence, IN, Vaughn Wamsley brings:
Experience: Years of handling complex TBI cases with a track record of successful outcomes.
Personalized Attention: Commit to understanding each client’s unique situation and tailoring our approach accordingly.
No Upfront Fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This approach ensures our interests align with yours—and we don’t get paid unless you do.
What To Do After a Traumatic Brain Injury
If you or a loved one suffers a TBI, taking swift action can significantly improve both recovery and your ability to pursue a legal claim. As your Lawrence traumatic brain injury lawyer, we recommend the following steps:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if symptoms seem minor, always get checked out. Some TBIs don’t show immediate signs but can worsen quickly without treatment.
Document Everything: Save medical records, prescriptions, diagnostic tests, and any communications with insurance companies—also, document changes in your physical, mental, or emotional health.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Counsel:Insurance companies often try to get statements that minimize their payout. Let us, your Lawrence injury attorney, handle that.
Follow Your Treatment Plan: This will aid in recovery and help demonstrate that you’re doing everything possible to heal, strengthening your claim.
Contact Our Office: The sooner you reach out, the faster we can build your case and protect your rights.
TBI and Its Emotional Toll on Families
We’ve worked with families across Indiana who’ve had to restructure their lives after a loved one’s TBI. The emotional weight of watching someone you love struggle with memory loss, personality changes, or physical disabilities is enormous. As your trusted TBI attorney in Lawrence, we don’t just fight for financial compensation—we fight for justice, stability, and dignity for every client and their family.
We connect you with support resources and expert witnesses who can testify about how the injury has affected your daily life. Our role goes beyond the courtroom—we’re advocates, guides, and protectors of your future.
How Long Will Your Case Take?
Every TBI case is different. Some resolve in a few months, while others take longer, especially if they go to trial. Factors influencing your case timeline include:
The complexity of your injury and treatment
The cooperation of the at-fault party or their insurer
Whether expert testimony is required
The willingness of the insurance company to settle fairly
We understand that waiting is hard—especially when bills are piling up. That’s why we keep you updated every step of the way, so you’re never left in the dark.
Real Results, Real People
We’re proud to have helped many Lawrence families receive the compensation they needed to move forward after a traumatic brain injury. While we respect the privacy of our clients, we’ve recovered settlements and verdicts that have covered lifelong medical care, in-home assistance, and vocational retraining.
When you hire us, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re getting a dedicated team who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.
We’re Here for You, Lawrence
We know the road ahead after a traumatic brain injury can be uncertain and overwhelming. But you don’t have to navigate it alone. As your Lawrence traumatic brain injury lawyer, we’re here to give you clear guidance, strong advocacy, and unwavering support from day one.
Whether your injury happened in a car crash, a fall, or an accident at work, our job is to ensure you’re not left picking up the pieces without help.
Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI, don’t wait—contact Vaughn Wamsley today for a free consultation.
contact us
You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
Practice Areas
I recently had the pleasure of working with Vaughn Wamsley and his team on my personal injury case, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome. Vaughn was incredibly dedicated to my case from…
- Cyndi Carrasco
Everyone was so helpful when ever I called to check on the progress of my case. Mr. Wamsley explained everything pertaining to my case and all steps involved to settlement. I would recommend this law…
- Mary Shelman
I absolutely love this team. They were very professional, my case was completed in a timely manner, kept me up to date throughout the process and the process was very well explained. Thank you for…
- Nicole Brown
Thrilled with my experience! I felt that my attorney worked incredibly hard on my behalf, I had great communication with the office, and I’m pleased with the results. I’m so glad I reached out instead…
- Victoria McCann
Staff is knowledgeable l and pleasant. The team explained the process and was there for me every step.
- Jessica Rowlee
Awesome job love them all get team 5 star for them thank you for everything
- Bonnie Johnson
The team worked hard on my case. I would definitely recommend them. They push to get you the win!
- Amber Kennedy
The team at Vaughn Wamsley delivered as promised. My paralegal was Kenny and he did a wonderful job of making sure I was well informed with accurate information. Jeremy was the attorney who sealed the…
- Deanna Erickson
Vaughn was a great advocate for my son who was in a motorcycle accident several years ago. My son was not at fault and the gentlemen that hit him was uninsured. Vaughn was able to…
- Jeff Banning
If you are injured in a car accident any where near Indianapolis call Vaughn Wamsley. They get things done and will get you a real result. I highly recommend this accident law firm.