Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, refers to a blow or jolt to the brain that disrupts its normal function. These injuries can range from minor, like a concussion, to severe. According to The Center for Disease Control, each year about 1.7 billion traumatic injuries occur. Of these injuries, about 50,000 result in death. Even if a traumatic brain injury isn’t fatal, it can lead to impaired memory, damaged vision, personality changes, and many more devastating effects.
And while the injury may occur in a split second, the damage can last a lifetime. There is no cure for a traumatic brain injury, so prevention is key. In order to be stay safe and remain vigilant, here’s a list of the most common causes of traumatic brain injury.
The Most Common Causes Traumatic Brain Injury
1. Falls – A vast majority of traumatic brain injuries are caused by falls, especially in children and older adults. For adults over 65, falling accounts for 60% of TBI’s. A slip and fall in the bathroom or falling out of the bed can be much more dangerous than you think.
2. Vehicle Collisions – Whiplash from a car, motorcycle, or bus accidents can be very severe, often requiring the expertise of a car accident lawyer to navigate the aftermath. Vehicle accidents are the number one cause for TBI related hospital stays, and TBI related deaths.
3. Violence – Child abuse, domestic violence, and gunshot wounds account for nearly 20 percent of traumatic brain injuries. For example, shaken baby syndrome is one of the most recognizable causes of TBI in infants.
4. Sports Injury – When you think of TBI, your mind might first go to dangerous sports, such as boxing, football, and hockey. While these injuries are the most high-profile TBI’s, they only account for about 5 percent of reported brain injuries. Remember, always wear a helmet.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a Traumatic Brain Injury, The Cochran Firm Philadelphia can help. Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneywill fight to get your the compensation you deserve. Fill out our free case evaluation form or call us at (800) 969-4400.