A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can significantly alter a victim’s life and also impact their entire family. When you need a trusted California traumatic brain injury lawyer, The Barnes Firm is here to help.
Our attorneys understand the lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges these injuries bring. With decades of combined experience, our team has helped thousands of Californians rebuild their lives after devastating accidents. We are committed to helping our clients get the best result possible and providing compassionate, knowledgeable guidance every step of the way.
Why The Barnes Firm Is the Right Choice for a California TBI Lawyer
Choosing the right attorney matters in every brain injury case. The Barnes Firm has helped resolve more than 150,000 accident cases, giving our clients a voice in the courtroom and the necessary resources to fight insurers. We provide a client-first approach, 24/7 availability, and personalized service from a diverse legal team that reflects and understands the communities we serve.
With offices across California, our team is always within reach and ready to get you the justice you deserve.
Our California Office Locations
No matter where you live in California, you can call us anytime for a free consultation at any of our following offices:
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
- Oakland
- San Jose
- San Francisco
Who Are the California Attorneys Working on My Case?
Our attorneys combine local insight with years of experience representing brain injury victims, bringing both compassion and proven results to every case. The following attorneys serve our California clients:
- Steve Barnes: Respected for more than 30 years of high-stakes trial work, Steve earned recognition for representing clients in traumatic brain injury and other complex cases. His leadership and track record helped establish The Barnes Firm as one of the nation’s largest personal injury law firms.
- Cody Christiansen: Recognized for his litigation and advocacy skills, Cody represents clients with severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, neurological disorders, and spine surgeries. He blends award-winning courtroom experience with a strong commitment to justice for injured Californians.
- Seth Mitchell: Recipient of the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Contracts II, Seth applies the same discipline that earned him top honors in law school to his legal practice. With insight from his early defense work, he has secured multiple six- and seven-figure results for brain injury victims.
- Allen Oghassabian: Named a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2023, Allen brings recognition earned for his trial work to every case. Drawing on his early career as a public defender, he combines courtroom skill with client-centered advocacy in traumatic brain injury claims.
Thousands of Californians have trusted The Barnes Firm during difficult times. We are particularly proud of reviews from clients that share how we helped them move forward after a brain injury, such as the following:
Francine M.
My personal attorney from Barnes was Seth Mitchell, who went above and beyond all my expectations in settling my personal injury lawsuit. He showed compassion and great understanding…By the end of my case, I felt like family to the law firm.
Richard H.
The legal team at Barnes Firm took care of me when I got rear-ended in downtown Oakland and did not know what to do. For months, Sandra Rivera was very communicative and made me feel very comfortable throughout the process. Plus, my case settled for more than I expected to receive. Thank you to the Barnes firm team and especially thank you to Sandra!
Christian C.
My personal injury attorney was Allen O. I can’t thank him and his team enough for their professionalism, diligence, and excellent communication! They really helped keep my mind at ease and kept me updated with every step of the process. If I ever need a personal injury attorney again, he and his team will be my go-to! Thanks, Allen O. and The Barnes Firm!
How Has The Barnes Firm Helped California Brain Injury Victims?
No two brain injury cases are alike, but notable results such as the following show how we consistently fight for maximum compensation for our California clients:
- $1.25 Million – Car Accident, Oakland – Our client’s vehicle was hit by another vehicle, causing brain, chest, and wrist injuries.
- $1.125 Million – Motorcycle Accident, San Diego – Our client was struck by a bus while riding a motorcycle, suffering brain, ankle, knee, back, and rib injuries.
- $400,000 – Motorcycle Accident, Oakland – A Motorcyclist was rear-ended, sustaining brain and eye injuries.
Our attorneys carefully investigate each claim, work with medical experts, and challenge insurance companies to pursue justice for our clients.
Who Is Liable for a California Brain Injury Claim?
A traumatic brain injury can happen in any setting, and several different parties may be legally responsible. In California, liability depends on who is at fault under the state’s fault-based rules and whether negligence or strict liability applies.
The following parties may be liable for a traumatic brain injury:
- Drivers and vehicle owners: When reckless or distracted driving causes a crash leading to a TBI
- Property owners or managers: When unsafe conditions, such as poor lighting, broken stairs, or unmarked hazards, cause falls or other accidents
- Employers: When unsafe workplaces or a lack of protective equipment contribute to head injuries
- Manufacturers: When defective products, including vehicles, helmets, or machinery, cause or worsen a brain injury
- Government entities: When public transportation systems, schools, or other public facilities fail to maintain safe conditions
What To Do After a Brain Injury Accident in California
The most important step after any accident is seeking medical attention immediately. Early treatment can prevent further harm and document the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury, creating a clear medical record that supports your claim.
After receiving care, contacting a lawyer is critical. An attorney can protect your rights, gather evidence, and guide you through recovery. Our attorneys explain each step clearly, from recognizing what to do after a car accident to avoiding mistakes that could weaken your claim.
How Long Do I Have To File A Brain Injury Claim In California?
California filing deadlines can significantly impact your case. Under the state’s statute of limitations, most brain injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident. Certain situations, such as cases involving government entities, carry even shorter timelines. Acting quickly gives our attorneys the best chance to preserve evidence, meet critical deadlines, and strengthen your claim.
What Damages Can I Recover In A California Brain Injury Case?
A traumatic brain injury can cause significant financial and personal losses. Depending on your case, you may be able to recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses: Hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and long-term care
- Rehabilitation costs: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Lost wages: Income lost while unable to work
- Loss of future earning capacity: Reduced ability to work in the future
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Loss of consortium: Impact on relationships and family life
- Home or vehicle modifications: Expenses for accessibility or mobility needs
Judita D.
Contacting the Barnes Law Firm was the best decision I ever made when I had a car accident. Not only were medical bills attended to, but the settlement they negotiated for me was to my fullest satisfaction. I highly recommend that you call or contact the Barnes Law Firm immediately for your car accident concerns and for all your legal needs. Service and attention are excellent.
Can I Recover Compensation If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, you may still recover damages even if you were not wearing a helmet during an accident. California follows comparative negligence rules, which means compensation can be reduced if your actions contributed to the severity of your injuries. Our attorneys explain how these rules apply and build strong cases to maximize recovery for brain injury victims, even when a helmet was not worn.
Del
My lawyer, Ali, and Grace were very professional. They handled my case very well from day one. Great communications and easy to get a hold of; call backs are really fast. They took care of all my medical needs. In the end, they got me way more than I thought I would get. I will always call The Barnes Firm and Ali for all my injury needs. Thank you, Ali and Grace, for all your work and caring.
Accidents That Cause Traumatic Brain Injuries in California
Many different accidents can lead to a traumatic brain injury, each bringing serious challenges for victims and families. Our attorneys commonly see cases involving:
- Car accidents: Collisions on busy California highways and city streets remain a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries statewide.
- Motorcycle and bicycle accidents: With year-round riding weather, accidents are common in California. Unfortunately, riders face high risks of brain injury due to limited protection.
- Truck accidents: Collisions with large vehicles often cause devastating brain injuries due to their size and force
- Pedestrian accidents: Crowded urban areas such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco see frequent pedestrian injuries when vehicles strike walkers in crosswalks or intersections
- Workplace accidents: Construction and industrial jobs involve elevated risks of serious head injuries
- Slip and fall accidents: Falls on unsafe property—from apartment complexes to retail stores—frequently cause traumatic brain injuries
I moved this section up to here because it originally came after the FAQ section, which didn’t feel like a natural place for it
Our team of attorneys want to hear from you.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, construction accident, or have suffered another type of personal injury contact our team today.
Free Case Evaluation or call us: (800) 800-0000Frequently Asked Questions About Traumatic Brain Injuries
If you are searching for a TBI lawyer California residents can trust, The Barnes Firm provides clear answers and strong representation. Below are some of the most common questions our attorneys receive about brain injury cases:
Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, memory problems, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating. Some effects appear immediately, while others may develop over time.
The value of a California brain injury lawsuit depends on medical expenses, lost income, and the long-term impact on quality of life. Our attorneys evaluate every detail to maximize each client’s possible recovery.
Each case is different, and the timelines vary. Some claims settle in months, while others involving severe injuries or liability disputes may take longer.
Insurance may cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, but insurers often attempt to limit payouts. Having an attorney helps ensure your rights are protected.
Yes. Surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit to recover funeral expenses, lost financial support, and compensation for the emotional toll of their loss.
Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. You only pay legal fees if we secure compensation for you.
Speak With a California Brain Injury Attorney Now
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury, The Barnes Firm is ready to help. Our attorneys offer free case reviews, work on a contingency-fee basis, and are available 24/7 to answer your questions. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here whenever you need us.
Call (800) 800-0000 or use our online form for a free consultation.
Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
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Emilia C.
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Joseph F.
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