March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the importance of brain health and the devastating impact of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). This month, we also observe Brain Injury Awareness Day on March 4 and Brain Awareness Week from March 10-16. All of these events celebrate advances in brain science and emphasize the role of education in preventing brain injuries.
The brain is the most critical organ in the human body, controlling everything from movement to memory. A TBI can have life-altering consequences, affecting your physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being — not to mention creating long-term financial challenges.
Facts About TBI
Traumatic brain injuries are all too common. According to the most recent data compiled by the CDC, about 586 people are hospitalized for TBIs in the U.S. every day — and about 190 fatalities occur daily, as well. These numbers don’t account for the milder TBIs that don’t require hospitalization, or the many concussion incidents that don’t get reported.
Traumatic brain injuries can happen in an instant, often as the result of preventable accidents. In fact, two of the most common causes of TBIs are:
- Car Accidents: Collisions can generate forces that can violently jolt the brain or cause it to collide with the skull or other parts of the vehicle.
- Falls: Slip-and-fall incidents, particularly among older adults, often lead to head injuries that can range from mild to severe.
These everyday occurrences can lead to life-altering consequences, affecting victims’ ability to think, communicate, and function normally.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries can take many forms, ranging in severity from mild to life-threatening. Some of the most common include:
- Concussions: Often caused by a sudden blow to the head or body, concussions can lead to numerous symptoms, including headaches, memory problems, and dizziness.
- Contusions: Bruising of the brain tissue, usually resulting from direct trauma.
- Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI): Caused by severe shaking or rotational forces, leading to widespread brain damage.
- Penetrating Injuries: Occur when an object pierces the skull, which can lead to severe and lasting damage.
These injuries can have long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional effects, disrupting lives and creating overwhelming medical and financial challenges.
Preventative Measures
While the risks of TBIs are all around us, there are steps you can take to minimize them and keep your brain safe:
- Wear a seatbelt: Whether you’re driving or riding in a car, wearing a seatbelt significantly reduces the risk of a TBI in the event of an accident.
- Use protective gear: When participating in sports or recreational activities, or when riding a bicycle or motorcycle, always wear appropriate protective gear such as helmets and pads.
- If you hit your head, see a doctor: Even if you think you’re okay, the symptoms of TBI may not show up right away — and even a TBI with delayed symptoms can be life-threatening. Err on the side of caution and get checked for any impact to the head to minimize the risk of danger.
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI because of someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Contact our skilled personal injury attorneys to seek the justice and compensation you need on your path to recovery.
