Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result from any activity where there is a blow to the head. It can come from blunt force or a jolt. There does not need to be any actual strike to the head or skull for injury to occur. For instance, shock waves from an explosion or sudden deceleration from a car accident can both cause TBI, even though they leave no external signs of physical injury.
The disruption in normal brain activity caused by the blow or jolt can be temporary or permanent. Because the outcome of brain injuries, even mild ones, are impossible to predict, it’s important to understand the activities that are riskiest, how to prevent injury and what to do if an injury occurs.
Most brain injuries are the result of a fall, motor vehicle accident, striking blow or an assault. In fact, more than 1/3 of all TBI cases are because of a fall. The elderly and children are most prone to this type of head injury.
Take the time to help small children and the elderly on stairs and uneven surfaces. Educate your older children about TBI and talk to sports program administrators about their safety policies. Because these age groups are more vulnerable to injury, any blow to the head should be checked by a medical professional right away.
Car accidents are responsible for about 17 percent of traumatic brain injuries, but account for more than 1/3 of TBI deaths. In some cases, the head strikes an object within the cabin during a sudden deceleration or crash. Other times, the neck may whip forward and back again, sometimes called whiplash, causing the brain to strike the skull from within.
Practicing safe driving, such as traveling within the speed limit and avoiding aggressive driving behaviors, can help prevent such injuries. If you suspect a head injury from a car accident, call for medical help right away. Signs to look for include a persistent and worsening headache, signs of weakness or lack of coordination, vomiting or nausea, slurred speech and cognitive confusion.
Incidents that include a striking blow can be the result of either the head striking an object or an object striking the head. More than 16% of head injuries are from this scenario. Among children up to 14 years old, this is the second most common method of brain injury. Children should be seen buy a medical professional in such cases. During sports, children should wear protective head gear and be supervised by an adult who can respond quickly should a head injury occur.
Assaults account for the remaining 10% of TBIs. Avoiding confrontational physical arguments is a good way to avoid any type of injury, including TBI.
If you or someone you love suffered severe consequences from a traumatic brain injury, contact the experts at the Brain Injury Law Center. We will give your case a free evaluation and help you determine if you should pursue a claim against the negligent party to cover the cost of medical bills and treatment.
