Did you sustain a brain injury in the San Mateo area? At Shea & Shea in San Mateo, we specialize in supporting individuals with brain injuries. Nestled between the vibrant Silicon Valley and the bustling San Francisco International Airport, San Mateo County is a key player in the Bay Area, known for its diverse community and significant historical background, having been established in 1856. The county, with its mix of urban and coastal cities like Redwood City and Pacifica, spans about 471 square miles, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience.

With a population that reflects a wide range of cultural backgrounds, San Mateo is a dynamic community. Governed by a Board of Supervisors representing five distinct districts, the county boasts a politically active populace with a strong Democratic majority. The area’s cost of living is notably higher than the national average, highlighting its desirability and the affluent lifestyle it offers to its residents.

At Shea & Shea – A Professional Law Corporation, we’ve been dedicated to serving the residents of the San Francisco Bay Area since 1966. Our expertise in handling complex brain injury cases means we’re well-equipped to provide the robust legal representation you need. We have a successful track record of securing substantial settlements for our clients, underscoring our commitment to achieving justice for those affected by brain injuries. Our team includes a trial specialist certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, ensuring that you receive skilled and aggressive legal advocacy.

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a complimentary case evaluation. Let our experienced team at Shea & Shea stand by your side during this challenging time.

Types of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries resulting from car accidents can be diverse, each with its unique set of challenges and outcomes. The nature of the collision—whether it’s a high-speed crash, a rear-end collision, or a rollover—can determine the type of brain injury sustained. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of brain injuries associated with car accidents:

Concussions

These often result from a direct blow to the head or a sudden deceleration that causes the brain to move within the skull. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and temporary loss of consciousness. While considered mild, repeated concussions can lead to more significant brain damage.

Contusions

These are bruises or bleeding on the brain, typically caused by a direct impact to the head.

Large contusions may require surgical removal if they lead to increased intracranial pressure.

Coup-Contrecoup Injuries

These occur when the force of the impact is so strong that it causes the brain to slam into the opposite side of the skull, resulting in injuries at both the site of the initial impact and on the opposite side of the brain. They are common in vehicle collisions where the head is rapidly thrust forward and then backward.

Diffuse Axonal Injuries (DAI)

Caused by severe shaking or rotational forces, they are common in high-speed crashes.

These injuries involve the tearing of the brain’s long connecting nerve fibers (axons) and can disrupt normal brain function, leading to coma or significant cognitive impairments.

Penetrating Injuries

These occur when an object, such as a piece of metal or glass, penetrates the skull and enters the brain tissue. These injuries can be localized or cause widespread damage, depending on the trajectory and speed of the object.

The aftermath of a brain injury from a car accident can vary greatly. Immediate symptoms can range from mild, such as brief loss of consciousness or headache, to severe, such as extended unconsciousness or amnesia. Long-term effects may include physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, emotional and behavioral changes, and sensory processing issues. The road to recovery can be long, often involving a team of medical professionals, and the extent of recovery is highly individualized, depending on the severity of the injury, the specific areas of the brain affected, and the overall health and resilience of the individual.

What Causes Brain Injuries?

Brain injuries can be caused by a variety of events and conditions. Here’s a list of common causes:

Slip and Falls: Falls from heights (such as ladders or roofs), and falls down stairs

Vehicle-Related Collisions: Car, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents involving vehicles

Sports Injuries: Impacts from contact sports like football, boxing, hockey, soccer, skateboarding, and extreme sports

Struck By/Against Events: Injuries caused by being hit by or colliding with an object or person

Penetrating Wounds: Injuries where an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue

Each of these causes can lead to varying degrees of brain injury, from mild concussions to severe and life-altering damage like traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The outcomes and required treatments can vary significantly based on the cause, severity, and location of the injury in the brain.

Why Do You Need a Brain Injury Lawyer?

Navigating the aftermath of a brain injury can be an overwhelmingly complex process, filled with medical appointments, rehabilitation sessions, and adjustments to daily life. This is where the expertise of a brain injury lawyer becomes invaluable. These specialized legal professionals understand the profound impact a brain injury can have on an individual’s life and are adept at navigating the intricate legal landscape to secure the compensation and support necessary for the victim’s recovery and future well-being.

A brain injury lawyer can meticulously assess the long-term financial, emotional, and physical implications of your injury, ensuring that any settlement or verdict encompasses the full extent of your needs. From negotiating with insurance companies to gathering the requisite medical evidence and expert testimonies, a brain injury lawyer is equipped to advocate for your rights and interests effectively.

Brain injury cases often entail complex legal arguments that require a deep understanding of both the law and the medical aspects of brain injuries. An attorney with experience in this field will be able to construct a compelling case that accurately represents the challenges you face. They can also navigate the deadlines and procedural nuances of the legal system, ensuring that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.

Given the potential for significant financial burdens arising from medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care, having a seasoned brain injury lawyer can make a substantial difference in securing a future that accommodates the needs imposed by the injury.

At Shea & Shea – A Professional Law Corporation, we specialize in providing compassionate and competent legal representation for brain injury victims. With decades of experience and a dedicated focus on catastrophic injury cases, our team is uniquely equipped to handle the complexities of your situation. If a loved one or you have suffered a brain injury, don’t navigate this challenging journey alone. Contact Shea & Shea today for a consultation, and let us advocate for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Shea & Shea - A Professional Law Corporation 2007 West Hedding Street
#100
San Jose, CA 95128

P.: 408-292-2434
Fax: 408-292-1264
San Jose Law Office Map