Traumatic brain injuries, also commonly referred to as TBIs, are serious conditions that can result in disability or even death for thousands every year. In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that there were about 61,000 TBI-related deaths in the United States.
If you or someone you love has sustained a TBI recently or is suffering from the effects of a TBI, personal injury experts at the Scott Carr Law Firm can help. Call our San Francisco office at 415-799-2229 to schedule a consultation or contact the firm on our website.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury is an injury that affects how the brain works. It may be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. It may also be caused by a penetrating injury, such as a gunshot, to the head.
This sudden movement or injury can cause the brain to twist or bounce inside the skull. Such movement can lead to stretching or damage to brain cells, as well as chemical changes in the brain.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
In 2015, nearly 33,000 people suffered from and were diagnosed with a non-fatal traumatic brain injury in California, according to the inpatient discharge data by the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development.
TBIs can affect people of all ages, and anyone can experience a TBI. However, there are common situations or factors that can lead to a TBI.
Falls
Falls are one of the most common causes of TBIs. Unintentional falls accounted for nearly half of all TBI-related hospitalizations in both 2016 and 2017.
Furthermore, half of those hospitalizations attributed to falls were among the oldest age group: adults 75 years old and up. More than one out of four elder adults falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor about it. Falls can be a great health risk to elders.
Motor vehicle crashes
After falls, motor vehicle accidents are the second most common cause of TBIs. They accounted for 25% and 24.5% of all TBI-related hospitalizations in 2016 and 2017, respectively. During those yeast, traumatic brain injuries sustained in motor vehicle crashes affected those aged 15 to 24 years and 25 to 34 years the most.
Every car accident is unique, and one can occur for any number of reasons. Common causes of motor vehicle accidents in California include speeding, distracted driving, violating traffic laws, and using a cell phone while driving.
TBIs are, unfortunately, a common car accident injury. The driver or passengers can sustain a TBI from hitting their head against the interior of the car, the window, the seat, or any objects within the vehicle.
Long-term Complications from TBIs
A TBI can be mild, moderate, or severe. A mild TBI, also called a concussion, is the most common type of TBI. They are described as mild since they are usually not life-threatening. Those who sustain a mild TBI should still see a healthcare provider right away for treatment.
A moderate or severe TBI may lead to long-term or lifelong health problems. A person who has suffered from a moderate or severe TBI may need ongoing care to aid in their recovery. The health problems that can arise from a moderate or severe TBI have been described as being similar to the effects of a chronic disease.
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a common condition that may follow a head injury. Symptoms can include:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Problems with balance
- Problems with memory
- Poor concentration
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Depression
- Anxiety
Though PCS is a temporary and normal condition that arises from TBI-recovery, a severe TBI can lead to similar, more intense long-term symptoms. These long-term complications may require treatment such as medication, physical therapy, pain management, and psychotherapy.
Let a personal injury attorney at the Scott Carr Law Firm help
If you or a loved one is suffering from the effects of a traumatic brain injury caused by another person’s negligence or harmful actions, you deserve compensation to help your recovery. You may be able to receive damages, or compensation, from a successful personal injury lawsuit.
A traumatic brain injury, particularly a moderate TBI or a severe TBI, can disrupt your finances, affect your health, and impact your quality of life. The Scott Carr Law Firm can help you move forward and focus on recovery by fighting for your legal rights in a personal injury claim.
To schedule a consultation with our office, please call our firm in San Francisco at 415-799-2229 or contact the firm on our website.
