A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•A+ rating on Better Business Bureau•Google reviews: 5.0•Martindale Hubbell Client Rating: 5.0•Lawyers.com Client Rating: 5.0•Avvo Client Rating: 5.0•Facebook Rating 5.0•Best Dog Bite Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers – Queens, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)•Best Car Accident Lawyers – Middletown, NY (2025) (Expertise.com)

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Lawyer in Tribeca

Compassionate Legal Guidance

Comprehensive TBI Claim Support

Traumatic brain injuries can change a life in an instant. If you or a loved one suffered a head injury in Tribeca, New York County, you face medical bills, lost income, and a complex recovery process that affects daily routines and future plans. At Ahearne Law Firm PLLC we focus on helping people navigate insurance claims and lawsuits related to TBI. Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. and the team provide clear guidance about legal options, what to expect during the claims process, and how to preserve important evidence. Call us at (845) 986-2777 to discuss next steps and understand your rights.

When a traumatic brain injury occurs, timely action matters for both health and legal outcomes. Early medical documentation and careful preservation of records can strengthen a claim and provide a clearer picture of the injury and its effects. Our approach centers on gathering medical records, witness statements, and incident details while coordinating with treating clinicians to build an accurate timeline. We explain how available insurance coverage and liability principles may apply in your situation and outline realistic expectations for recovery and compensation. If you are unsure how to proceed after a head injury, contact Ahearne Law Firm PLLC for a straightforward discussion of potential legal paths.

Why Legal Support Matters After a TBI

Legal support after a traumatic brain injury helps families manage the overlap between medical care and financial strain while protecting future rights. An experienced legal team assists in identifying liable parties, pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and changes in future earning capacity, and negotiating with insurers who may undervalue serious injuries. Legal representation also coordinates with medical providers to document long-term needs and works to preserve evidence that can be critical in proving liability and damages. For many people dealing with a TBI, having someone manage legal details reduces stress and allows focus on recovery and family care while important deadlines and procedural requirements are handled.

About Ahearne Law Firm PLLC and Allan J. Ahearne, Jr.

Ahearne Law Firm PLLC serves clients in Tribeca and throughout New York County, providing personal injury representation with attention to the medical, financial, and personal challenges faced after a serious injury. Attorney Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. focuses on helping people through complex insurance negotiations and litigation when needed, working to secure compensation that addresses immediate and long-term needs. The firm emphasizes clear communication, timely case investigations, and careful documentation to support each claim. Clients receive individualized attention to understand unique circumstances and to pursue appropriate remedies while navigating the legal system.

Understanding TBI Claims

Traumatic brain injury claims involve proving how an accident caused harm and demonstrating the extent of medical and functional impacts on the injured person. Establishing liability requires showing that another party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and that breach caused the brain injury and resulting damages. Medical records, diagnostic imaging, neuropsychological testing, and testimony from treating clinicians help document injury severity, recovery trajectory, and ongoing care needs. Because symptoms and impairments can be subtle or delayed, careful early documentation and ongoing monitoring are important to accurately reflect the full scope of injury-related losses over time.

Compensation in TBI matters may include coverage for past and future medical treatments, rehabilitation services, assistive devices, lost earnings, and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering and changes to daily life. Calculating future needs often involves input from medical professionals, vocational specialists, and life care planners to estimate long-term care and support. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts by attributing symptoms to pre-existing conditions or by undervaluing future care needs. A thorough approach to evidence collection and a coordinated medical-legal strategy support fair consideration of the full consequences of a traumatic brain injury.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary

Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head that can alter brain function temporarily or more persistently. Signs often include headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and changes in memory or concentration. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over hours to days and can vary significantly between individuals. Medical evaluation typically includes neurological assessment and sometimes imaging or cognitive testing to monitor progression. Even when initial imaging is normal, ongoing symptoms can indicate functional impairment that requires medical follow-up and documentation for legal claims.

Contusion

A contusion is a bruise on the brain tissue that can result from direct impact or force transmitted to the head, causing bleeding or swelling within the skull. Depending on severity, a contusion can lead to prolonged recovery, neurological deficits, and the need for monitoring or surgical intervention in some cases. Symptoms may include loss of consciousness, cognitive difficulties, weakness, or changes in behavior and may require imaging such as CT or MRI to confirm. For legal purposes, documentation of imaging findings, treatment, and ongoing functional limitations helps establish the nature and extent of injury-related harm.

Diffuse Axonal Injury

Diffuse axonal injury occurs when the brain experiences widespread shearing of nerve fibers due to sudden acceleration or deceleration forces, often in high-impact collisions or falls. This type of injury can disrupt neural communication across multiple brain regions and may lead to prolonged unconsciousness, cognitive impairments, and significant functional challenges. Diagnosis may rely on clinical findings and advanced imaging, and recovery can be lengthy and unpredictable, often involving multidisciplinary rehabilitation. In legal claims, documenting the event, acute care records, and long-term functional assessments is essential to convey the full scope of injury and ongoing needs.

Intracranial Hemorrhage

Intracranial hemorrhage refers to bleeding within the skull that may occur after head trauma and can be life-threatening or cause lasting neurological damage. Types include subdural, epidural, subarachnoid, and intraparenchymal hemorrhages, each with different clinical implications and treatment strategies. Timely imaging and surgical or medical management are critical for patient outcomes, and detailed hospital records help document the severity of the event. For injury claims, these findings, associated treatments, rehabilitation, and records of any resulting disabilities form a central part of demonstrating the seriousness and lasting effects of the injury.

PRO TIPS

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

After any blow to the head or event that jostles the brain, seek prompt medical evaluation to identify acute injuries and begin necessary treatment without delay. Early assessment creates medical documentation that records symptoms, diagnostic findings, and initial therapy which can be important later in a claim. Keeping careful follow up with recommended providers helps track recovery, supports continuity of care, and provides detailed records that clarify both initial and evolving effects of the injury.

Document the Incident Thoroughly

Collect information about where and how the incident occurred, including photos, witness names and contact details, and any surveillance or event records that may exist. Written notes about symptoms, how they change over hours and days, and how the injury affects routine activities build a timeline that complements medical records. This documentation supports claims by connecting the incident to observed symptoms and treatments, helping to establish causation and the impact on daily life.

Preserve Medical and Financial Records

Retain all medical bills, test results, prescriptions, therapy invoices, and correspondence with providers and insurers to provide a complete record of treatment and costs. Keeping a file of employment records showing lost wages, reduced hours, or modified duties clarifies economic losses linked to the injury. Organized records make it easier to assess total damages and to present a coherent case when discussing compensation with insurers or in court.

Comparing Legal Approaches

When Comprehensive Representation Is Important:

Complex Medical Needs and Long-Term Care

When a TBI results in ongoing medical care, cognitive impairment, or significant changes to daily functioning, a broad approach to legal representation helps document and quantify future needs. Coordinating with medical providers, therapists, and life care planners provides the detailed evidence necessary to estimate long-term care and rehabilitation costs. This coordinated documentation forms the basis for pursuing fair compensation that addresses both immediate bills and anticipated future expenses.

Multiple Liable Parties or Insurance Issues

Situations that involve multiple potential defendants, contested liability, or insurers disputing causation benefit from a comprehensive strategy that investigates all available evidence. Thorough fact gathering, witness interviews, and scene analysis help establish fault and counter attempts to shift blame. A complete approach also allows for careful negotiation and, when necessary, preparation for litigation to protect the injured person’s rights across different insurers and responsible parties.

When a Narrower Approach May Be Enough:

Minor Injuries with Clear Liability

If a head injury is minor, symptoms resolve quickly, and liability is undisputed, a streamlined claims process focused on documentation and direct negotiation may resolve matters efficiently. In such cases, simple evidence like a clear incident report, prompt medical notes, and routine follow-up visits often provide sufficient support for a fair settlement. A limited approach can reduce time and expense while delivering timely compensation for short-term medical treatment and modest economic losses.

Low Medical Costs and Straightforward Damages

When medical expenses are minimal and future care needs are unlikely, focused negotiation with insurers and prompt submission of bills and records may be an appropriate route. This simpler process prioritizes efficient resolution by concentrating on documented past expenses and brief recovery periods. Choosing a limited path helps conserve resources when the evidence and damages are uncomplicated and liability is clear.

Common Circumstances Causing TBI

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall incidents in public or private spaces can cause head impacts that lead to concussions or more severe brain injury, particularly when hard surfaces are involved and the fall is unprotected. Detailed incident reports, surveillance footage when available, witness statements, and timely medical records help establish the link between the fall and resulting injury for a claim.

Motor Vehicle Collisions

High-speed or sudden-impact vehicle collisions frequently cause traumatic brain injury from direct blows or rapid acceleration and deceleration forces on the brain. Preserving police reports, medical imaging, and emergency treatment records is important to document trauma and support claims against negligent drivers or responsible parties.

Workplace and Construction Incidents

Falls from height, struck-by incidents, and other workplace accidents can result in serious head injuries that require extensive medical care and potentially long recovery periods. Employer reports, safety records, and workers compensation documentation are combined with medical evidence to evaluate liability and available recovery options.

TBI Legal Help in Tribeca, New York County

Why Choose Ahearne Law Firm PLLC for TBI Matters

Choosing legal representation after a traumatic brain injury means selecting a team that will prioritize clear communication, timely investigation, and careful documentation of medical and financial impacts. At Ahearne Law Firm PLLC we focus on explaining legal options in plain terms, coordinating with treating clinicians to document care, and guiding clients through insurance negotiations and potential court proceedings. Our approach centers on the needs of the injured person and their family, addressing both immediate concerns and planning for longer term care and compensation needs.

Clients working with Ahearne Law Firm PLLC receive support in obtaining necessary records, understanding applicable deadlines and procedural requirements, and assessing all available sources of recovery. We communicate regularly about case progress and strategic choices, including whether negotiation or litigation is appropriate. By handling the legal details, we help clients focus on medical recovery and daily life while advocating for compensation that reflects both present and future consequences of the injury.

Contact Us to Discuss Your TBI Claim

People Also Search For

Traumatic brain injury lawyer Tribeca

TBI attorney New York County

concussion claim Tribeca

brain injury compensation NYC

head injury legal help Tribeca

personal injury TBI New York

Ahearne Law Firm traumatic brain injury

Allan J. Ahearne Jr TBI claims

FAQS

What are common symptoms of a traumatic brain injury?

Common symptoms of traumatic brain injury vary widely and can include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and sensitivity to light or noise. Some individuals experience balance or coordination issues, nausea, or short-term loss of consciousness, while others note subtle cognitive shifts that become apparent over days or weeks. Symptoms may be immediate or delayed, and their severity does not always match initial imaging results, making careful medical assessment and follow-up important. If symptoms appear or worsen after a head injury, keeping a detailed record of changes and communicating them to medical providers helps establish a clear timeline for diagnosis and treatment. This documentation supports both medical care and any legal claim by linking the injury event to observed symptoms and care received, which is vital when seeking compensation for ongoing medical needs and functional impacts.

How soon should I seek medical attention after a head injury?

Seek medical attention as soon as possible after a head injury, even if symptoms seem mild at first, because some brain injuries have delayed or evolving presentations that require monitoring and treatment. Early evaluation creates a medical record documenting the incident, observed signs, and diagnostic steps taken, which is essential for both health care planning and later insurance or legal claims. Prompt medical care can also identify conditions requiring urgent intervention and reduce the risk of complications. If immediate emergency treatment is not needed, follow-up with a primary care provider or neurologist within a short timeframe is still important to assess cognitive and neurological function, obtain any necessary imaging, and receive guidance on monitoring and rehabilitation. Consistent documentation of symptoms and treatment over time strengthens the factual record connecting the injury to its consequences for recovery and any legal proceedings.

Can I pursue a claim if symptoms appeared days or weeks later?

Yes, you can pursue a claim if symptoms appear later, but establishing the connection between the incident and the delayed symptoms requires thorough medical documentation and a clear timeline showing onset and progression. Medical records that document initial evaluation, subsequent visits, diagnostic testing, and clinician observations help show that symptoms are related to the earlier event rather than a separate cause. Witness statements and contemporaneous notes about difficulties experienced in the days or weeks after the incident can also support the claim. Because delayed symptom cases may involve questions about causation or pre-existing conditions, working with legal counsel who can coordinate with medical providers to obtain and interpret records is helpful. A careful approach focuses on linking clinical findings and functional limitations back to the triggering event while addressing insurer inquiries about timing and cause, which improves the chance of fair consideration for compensation.

What types of compensation are available in a TBI claim?

Compensation in a TBI claim can cover a range of economic and non-economic damages, including past and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, assistive devices, and home modifications required for long-term care. Lost income, reduced earning capacity, and compensation for diminished quality of life, pain and suffering, and emotional distress may also be included when supported by medical and vocational documentation. The scope of recoverable damages depends on the severity of the injury and the evidence connecting losses to the incident. Determining appropriate compensation often requires input from treating clinicians, therapists, and vocational consultants to estimate future care needs and potential impacts on employment. Detailed documentation of bills, therapy plans, and expert assessments helps quantify future costs and supports negotiations with insurers or presentations in court to seek a settlement or verdict that fairly reflects both current and anticipated needs.

How does an attorney help with medical evidence for a TBI case?

An attorney helps gather and organize medical records, imaging results, therapy notes, and clinician reports that document diagnosis, treatment, and the functional impact of the injury. They coordinate with medical providers to obtain comprehensive records, consult with medical professionals when specialized interpretation is needed, and ensure the presentation of medical evidence is clear and persuasive to insurers or a judge or jury. Legal counsel also advises on which medical documents and expert input are most relevant to demonstrate severity and future care requirements. Additionally, an attorney will use this medical evidence to support causation and damages by creating a coherent narrative that links the accident to the injury and subsequent losses. This includes compiling timelines, highlighting treatment gaps or changes, and translating medical findings into a form that insurance adjusters and courts can evaluate in determining liability and appropriate compensation.

Will my case go to court or can it be settled with an insurer?

Many TBI cases are resolved through negotiation with insurers and responsible parties, resulting in settlements that avoid the time and uncertainty of trial, but some matters require filing a lawsuit and proceeding to court to secure fair compensation. Whether a case settles or goes to trial depends on the strength of the evidence, the willingness of parties to negotiate in good faith, and the adequacy of settlement offers relative to the injured person’s needs. Preparing a case for litigation can strengthen negotiating position and encourage reasonable settlement offers. Preparing for all possible outcomes involves thorough investigation and documentation from the outset so that if litigation becomes necessary, the case is ready for court proceedings. During settlement negotiations, legal counsel evaluates offers against documented damages and future needs, advising the client about the potential risks and benefits of accepting a settlement versus pursuing trial when necessary to achieve appropriate compensation.

How long do I have to file a TBI claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims generally requires that a lawsuit be filed within three years from the date of the injury, but certain circumstances can alter this timeline, so it is important to seek advice early to protect legal rights. Missing the filing deadline can bar recovery in many cases, even if the underlying claim is valid, so timely consultation ensures important deadlines are tracked and met. Some situations involving government entities or minors have different time limits and procedural steps that must be followed promptly. Because timing rules can be complex, contacting legal counsel soon after an injury helps identify applicable deadlines, preserve critical evidence, and take any necessary preliminary steps such as sending notice to a public entity when required. Early action also facilitates a more comprehensive investigation while witnesses and records are still available, improving the chances of a favorable outcome whether through settlement or litigation.

What if the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance?

If the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance, other recovery options may exist depending on the circumstances, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, employer liability for workplace incidents, or pursuing assets of the responsible party through litigation. Identifying available insurance policies and potential sources of recovery is an early task in evaluating a case, and documentation of liability and damages remains important even when initial insurance coverage appears limited. Exploring all possible avenues helps maximize the chances of obtaining meaningful compensation for medical care and other losses. When coverage gaps exist, careful assessment of available benefits and potential third-party claims is essential to form a practical plan for recovery. In some cases, structured settlements, negotiations with multiple insurers, or creative legal strategies are necessary to address future care needs and financial impacts when standard insurance limits fall short of covering long-term consequences.

How are future care needs and lost earning capacity calculated?

Future care needs and lost earning capacity are typically calculated using medical evaluations, prognosis reports, and input from vocational or life care planners who estimate ongoing medical and support requirements. These assessments consider current impairments, likely progression or improvement, and the realistic costs of rehabilitation, therapy, assistive devices, and home or workplace accommodations over time. Accurate estimation of future needs is essential to present a comprehensive case for compensation that reflects long-term financial implications of the injury. Economic analyses also account for lost income, reductions in future earning potential, and benefits such as retirement impacts when calculating damages. Combining clinical opinions with vocational assessments and economic modeling provides a reasoned basis for seeking damages that address both current expenses and anticipated future costs related to the traumatic brain injury.

How do I start a consultation with Ahearne Law Firm PLLC?

To start a consultation with Ahearne Law Firm PLLC, call the firm at (845) 986-2777 or use the contact options on the website to request a discussion about your situation. During the initial conversation you will be asked about the incident, medical treatment received to date, and the impact on daily life; this helps the firm determine the most appropriate next steps and whether further investigation or immediate actions are needed. The firm explains available paths and what documentation to gather for an initial review. If you decide to proceed, the firm coordinates the collection of medical records, incident reports, and other relevant evidence, and will inform you about timelines and potential legal steps. The goal of the initial consultation is to provide clear information about rights and options and to set a plan for preserving evidence and pursuing any necessary claims while you focus on recovery.

Personal Injury Services in Tribeca

Explore our injury practice areas

⚖️ All Personal Injury Services