Brain injuries can be unexpected and traumatic, but when they happen to someone you love, such as your spouse, the impact can be even more significant. Whether your partner needs additional surgeries to reduce swelling in the brain or physical and mental rehab and extended care at home, all of these expenses can add up and overwhelm your finances. However, if the accident was the fault of another, there are a few steps you can take to try and gain compensation and prevent a financial tailspin.
- Talk to a Lawyer
One of the first steps you might want to take after your spouse suffers a brain injury is to find a local attorney. Many offer free initial consultations so you can compare fees and other factors before you choose a lawyer who is right for you. Obtaining a lawyer may help you in several ways, including placing a dollar amount on your spouse’s injury and gauging how strong your case is.
- Discuss Care Costs
Once you choose a lawyer, you will gather all your pertinent papers and present them for examination. Your attorney will likely make copies and review them to determine the total value of the damages. You may be able to sue for multiple damages, including pain and suffering, the loss of future earning potential, loss of companionship and the cost of medical care, both now and in the future.
- Have Your Attorney Serve the Party at Fault
Your intent to sue can be delivered by your attorney once the case is prepared, which can have several results. The party you believe is at fault may either deny responsibility and fight the charges or attempt to settle with you. If you are offered a settlement, it is wise to review any offer with your attorney to ensure you and your spouse are being properly compensated. Arbitration or an appearance in court might be necessary in either instance.
- Prepare for Court
If your case cannot be solved in arbitration, then you may have no choice but to request for a judge to hear your case in court. Your attorney can help you prepare for this and you can give him or her permission to represent you during the hearing if you do not feel comfortable doing this yourself. You may want to keep in mind that no outcome is guaranteed and that the burden of proof may fall on you and your attorney if you hope to win your case.
When your spouse suffers a brain injury, it can have a devastating impact on your finances and married life, but there are avenues to compensation. Contact a brain injury lawyer, like a brain injury lawyer in Houston, TX, for more information today.
Thanks to John K. Zaid & Associates for their insight into how to gain compensation for your spouse’s brain injury.
