Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is one of the most devastating causes of death and disability in the U.S, yet very few people are aware of just how widespread the problem is. The Center for Disease Control estimates that every year, at least 1.7 million Americans will suffer a Traumatic Brain Injury. Approximately 50,000 of those affected will die from their injuries, and TBIs are a contributing factor in roughly 30% of all injury-related deaths.
The CDC has also released the following estimates based on their data:
– Traumatic Brain Injuries are fatal in 22% of cases
– The risk of TBI among males is 2x the risk among females across all age groups
– Each year more than 80,000 Americans will be discharged from a hospital with TBI-related disabilities
– Approximately 5.3 million Americans are living with a TBI-related disability
Put in this context, it is crucial that we raise awareness about this issue to help those who are affected get the treatment they need and deserve.
Leading Causes of TBI
The leading causes of TBI across all age groups are:
1) Motor vehicle accidents
2) Physical violence or attacks
3) Falls and other accidents
Leading causes of TBI also vary among different age groups. For example, among citizens over 65 years old, most cases of TBI are due to falls, whereas in people between the ages of 5 and 64, the leading cause is motor vehicle accidents.
The CDC also cautions that rates of Traumatic Brain Injury are especially high among adolescents, young adults, and people over the age of 75.
Types of TBI
Traumatic Brain Injuries fall into one of two categories: Closed Head or Open Head.
– Open Head Injuries: Also known as “penetrating injuries,” these types of injuries are caused by a foreign object entering the skull. These types of injuries vary widely in their related symptoms and treatment, as the severity depends on what part of the brain is impacted.
– Closed Head Injuries: These types of injuries, which include all types of concussions, result from a blow to the head. Closed head injuries are typically more common in motor vehicle accidents when the head is at risk of colliding with a windshield or dashboard.
If you or a loved one have suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury in a car accident or on a construction site, you need an experienced Tulsa law firm to fight for you. Brain injuries are complex, require serious treatment and rehabilitation, and can impact your life in ways you may never see coming. This is why you need the Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury attorneys of Graves McLain on your side.
Your case and your injuries are serious, and at Graves McLain Tulsa Personal Injury Law Firm, we help individuals and families seek the full and fair compensation they deserve after an accident. Contact Graves McLain today toll-free at 1-800-390-6600, email us directly, or request a free consultation online.
A caring, dedicated attorney will review your situation at no cost to you. Trust our team, we’re here to help.
Graves McLain, Serious Lawyers for Serious Injuries