Traumatic Brain Injury Lawsuit Regulations in California

What Are California’s Brain Injury Laws?

As the name implies, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious injury that is typically caused by a strong blow or jolt to the head. This can interrupt normal brain functioning. TBI’s are mainly caused by falls, being struck by objects, and car accidents. 

These types of injuries will range from mild, moderate, and severe injuries. Mild injuries are usually characterized by a momentary disruption in awareness, while severe injuries are a longer lasting state of amnesia or unconsciousness. The very worst TBIs may cause permanent disability, or even death. 

Below, our experienced brain injury attorneys will discuss important federal and California laws that address the serious issue of TBI. If you have suffered a TBI, West Coast Trial Lawyers is always here to answer any questions you may have about brain injuries and available damages.

To schedule a free consultation, please contact our 24/7 legal team by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form.

The Traumatic Brain Injury Reauthorization Act of 2014 

In 2014, the TBI Reauthorization Act was passed to reduce TBIs, encourage more research on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, and finally, to create more access to rehabilitation services. This law is backed by federal funding and is implemented by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Administration for Community Living (ACL).

California Specific Legislation

Cal. Penal Code §13515.36 (2010 SB 1296)

This law requires the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training to take action in order to assess necessary training for peace officers when it comes to returning veterans and any other individuals who are suffering from traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

The law also requires the Commission to disseminate online training bulletins to specific law enforcement agencies on TBI and PTSD, as well as reporting back to the legislature regarding the way peace officers are being trained on interacting with individuals who are suffering from TBI or PTSD. 

Cal. Education Code §49475 (2011 AB 25)

This law requires any school district that offers sports to remove athletes from physical activity when it is suspected that they have suffered a concussion or head injury. Furthermore, such athletes are not allowed to come back to physical activity unless they have been cleared by a healthcare provider.  

Cal. Welfare and Institutions Code § 4354; 4354.5; 4355; 4356; 4357; 4357.1; 4358.5; 4359; 14132.992 (2009 AB 398)

This removes the State Department of Mental Health from the responsibility of administering services to those with TBI and places the responsibility with the Department of Rehabilitation. The Department of Rehabilitation is to fund a variety of services for adults with TBI. This entity is also responsible for collecting data, as well as monitoring and evaluating their service providers.

West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help 

If you or a loved one were the victim of brain injury due to negligent acts committed by another individual, our skilled brain injury attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers will help you recover compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. 

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation at our firm. No fees are paid until your case has been settled. Reach out to our 24/7 legal team by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form.