Traumatic brain injuries can be very serious, often resulting in life-altering problems and conditions. Each year, millions of people across the country will struggle to cope with a brain injury.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year:
- Approximately 1.5 million Americans suffer traumatic brain injuries
- 50,000 Americans die from traumatic brain injuries
- 85,000 people suffer long term disabilities as a result of their brain injury
The CDC also estimates that over 5.3 million Americans are currently living with disabilities caused by a traumatic brain injury.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury
There are a variety of factors which can contribute to the development of a traumatic brain injury. The vast majority of these injuries are caused by a violent blow to the head. Your brain has a gelatin-like consistency, and is therefore prone to sustaining serious damage. Your skull is filled with cerebrospinal fluid which protects your brain from the everyday jolts and bumps which would otherwise lead to a serious injury. However, in the event of a harsh or violent blow to the head, your brain may crash against the inner wall of your skull, resulting in bleeding, swelling, and the tearing of nerve fibers.
Auto accidents are the most common cause of violent blows to the head. Other common occurrences with the potential to result in a head injury include slips and falls, acts of violence, and collisions in contact sports. In fact, athletes, especially football players, are at increased risk of suffering concussions and other types of brain injuries due to the violent nature of the sport.
Other possible causes of traumatic brain injury include:
- Gunshot wounds
- A sharp object piercing the skull
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Lack of oxygen to the brain
- Tumors
- Infections in the brain
- Stroke
Traumatic Brain Injury Lawsuits
If your traumatic brain injury was caused by the negligent actions of another, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your damages. Brain injury lawsuits are very complicated and require representation by a brain injury lawyer with extensive knowledge of the complex medical principles associated with traumatic brain injuries.
Traumatic brain injuries often drastically impact the quality of your life. Financially, you may be burdened with ongoing medical bills and the need for daily care. If your brain injury results in a disability, it may also impact your ability to work, further affecting your financial well-being. These injuries also take an emotional toll on the victim and the victim's family.
An experienced brain injury lawyer can help you receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
