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Michigan Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer

Experienced Representation for Victims of Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change every aspect of a person's life. Even injuries that appear "mild" immediately after an accident can have lasting effects on memory, concentration, mood, balance, speech, and the ability to work or care for a family.

Unlike a broken bone or visible wound, many brain injuries cannot be seen on an X-ray or by simply looking at a person. As a result, traumatic brain injuries are sometimes misunderstood, underestimated, or disputed by insurance companies.

At Hanley & Hodek PLC, we have represented clients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries and closed-head injuries in motor vehicle accidents, motorcycle crashes, truck collisions, pedestrian accidents, boating accidents, ATV accidents, falls, and other serious incidents throughout Michigan.

If you or someone you love has suffered a brain injury because of another person's negligence, we are here to help you understand your legal rights.

Free Consultation

If you believe you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, early legal guidance can help protect your rights while you focus on your recovery.

Call Hanley & Hodek today at 231-486-6556 or complete our online contact form for a FREE consultation.

For qualifying personal injury matters, there is no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you.

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden impact, jolt, or penetrating injury disrupts normal brain function.

Brain injuries range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries.

Common causes include:

  • Car accidents

  • Truck accidents

  • Motorcycle crashes

  • Pedestrian accidents

  • Bicycle accidents

  • Boating accidents

  • ATV and golf cart accidents

  • Falls

  • Workplace accidents

  • Sports injuries

Even injuries initially diagnosed as a concussion can require ongoing evaluation and treatment.

Closed-Head Injuries Can Be Difficult to Diagnose

One of the greatest challenges with traumatic brain injuries is that they are not always immediately obvious.

Many brain injuries do not appear on standard imaging studies, and symptoms may not fully develop until days or even weeks after the accident.

As people attempt to return to work, school, or normal daily activities, they may begin experiencing difficulties that were not apparent immediately after the injury.

Because these injuries are often "invisible," they are sometimes questioned by insurance companies despite having a significant impact on a person's life.

Common Symptoms of a Brain Injury

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury but may include:

  • Persistent headaches

  • Memory problems

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Confusion

  • Dizziness

  • Balance problems

  • Blurred vision

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Fatigue

  • Mood changes

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Irritability

  • Personality changes

  • Difficulty finding words

  • Slower thinking or processing information

Some symptoms may not appear until weeks after the accident, making prompt medical evaluation especially important if concerns develop.

Why Insurance Companies Often Dispute Brain Injury Claims

Traumatic brain injuries present unique challenges because many symptoms are not visible to others.

Insurance companies may question:

  • Whether a brain injury actually occurred

  • Whether symptoms are related to the accident

  • The need for continued treatment

  • The severity of cognitive impairment

  • The amount of future medical care required

At Hanley & Hodek, we understand these challenges and work to develop the medical evidence necessary to fully evaluate and present a client's claim.

Working With Medical Specialists

Recovery from a traumatic brain injury often requires a team of healthcare professionals.

Depending on the injury, treatment may involve:

  • Neurologists

  • Neuropsychologists

  • Physical therapists

  • Occupational therapists

  • Speech-language pathologists

  • Counselors

  • Rehabilitation specialists

  • Case managers

We work closely with treating providers to understand how a brain injury affects every aspect of our clients' lives and to present a complete picture of their damages.

Compensation May Be Available

Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:

  • Medical expenses

  • Future medical care

  • Rehabilitation costs

  • Lost wages

  • Loss of future earning capacity

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress

  • Long-term care needs

  • Home modifications

  • Other damages permitted under Michigan law

Every case is different, and the compensation available depends on the specific facts and applicable law.

How We Help

Our attorneys carefully investigate traumatic brain injury cases by:

  • Reviewing medical records

  • Working with treating physicians

  • Consulting medical experts when appropriate

  • Evaluating future medical needs

  • Gathering evidence regarding lost income

  • Calculating the long-term impact of the injury

  • Negotiating with insurance companies

  • Pursuing litigation when necessary

Our goal is to help clients obtain the resources they need for recovery while holding negligent parties accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a traumatic brain injury if my CT scan was normal?

Yes. Some traumatic brain injuries are not visible on standard imaging studies. Diagnosis often depends on a combination of symptoms, neurological evaluations, neuropsychological testing, and medical judgment.

What if my symptoms didn't appear until several days after the accident?

Delayed symptoms are not uncommon following some brain injuries. If new symptoms develop after an accident, seek prompt medical attention.

Can a concussion be considered a traumatic brain injury?

Yes. A concussion is generally considered a form of traumatic brain injury, although the severity and long-term effects vary from person to person.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

For qualifying personal injury matters, we work on a contingency-fee basis. You do not pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Related Resources

Learn more about:

  • Traverse City Car Accident Lawyer

  • Michigan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

  • Northern Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer

  • Michigan PIP Benefits Lawyer

  • Michigan Insurance Claim Denial Lawyer

Schedule Your FREE Consultation

A traumatic brain injury can affect your health, your career, your relationships, and your future.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury or closed-head injury because of another person's negligence, Hanley & Hodek PLC is here to help.

We'll review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options during a FREE consultation.

Call 231-486-6556 today or complete our online contact form to get started.