When an accident happens, injuries often result. Broken bones, bruises, and lacerations can be readily seen with the naked eye; however, injuries to the head don’t always show outward signs of trauma. Because of this, when a head injury occurs, it should be taken incredibly seriously as it could be a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs are devastating injuries that often result from a car accident or fall and can have lifelong consequences for those who suffer from them. Due to the unfortunate commonality of suffering from a TBI following an accident, many different statistics showcase the dangers of head injuries.
Every year, TBIs contribute to a staggering amount of deaths as well as permanent disability. Typically caused by a bump, blow, jolt to the head, or a penetrating injury – the severity of a TBI can vary from mild to severe. Data is critical to understanding the impact of brain injuries. Read below so you can help identify injuries and educate others on the unfortunate reality many face after suffering a TBI.
Traumatic Brain Injury Statistics
A TBI disrupts the normal functioning of the brain following an injury. Symptoms range depending on the severity of the injury. While mild cases can result in a brief change in mental state or consciousness, severe cases may lead to extended periods of unconsciousness, coma, or even death. Some of the most common statistics associated with a TBI include:
TBI in the United States
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the U.S. an estimated 2.8 million people sustain a TBI each year. Of these, 90% will be treated and released from an emergency center or hospital, while 282,000 will be hospitalized long-term and 50,000 will die. Additionally, TBIs are a contributing factor to one-third of all injury-related deaths in the U.S., with 153 citizens dying each day from related injuries. These staggering figures showcase just how common brain injuries are – and the medical costs that can be incurred are just as daunting. Direct and indirect medical costs related to a TBI totaled $60 billion in the early 2000s.
Age and TBI
While a TBI can happen to anyone regardless of age, certain age ranges are more susceptible than others. For instance, children up to four years of age, older adolescents up to 19 years old, and adults 65 years and older are the most likely to sustain a TBI. In 2012, it was estimated that 329,290 children were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for sports and recreation-related diagnoses of a concussion or TBI. Those who are 75 years and older are most likely to be hospitalized long-term or die from a TBI.
Risk Factors
There are several different risk factors associated with brain injury. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death when a TBI is sustained in victims aged 5-24. Outside of car accidents, falls that result in a TBI are among the leading causes of death for those 65 and up, while assaults that lead to a TBI are among the leading causes of death for children.
What to do Following a Traumatic Brain Injury
After a brain injury occurs, it is incredibly important for victims to seek medical attention. While some may not be aware they have suffered a TBI until they display symptoms like headaches, confusion, drowsiness, etc., it’s best to err on the side of caution, as the effects of a TBI can worsen over time if left untreated. Additionally, if it is believed that the TBI was caused as a result of a car accident, faulty product, or another person or company’s negligence, victims should consult with a Houston brain injury attorney.
Assisting Traumatic Brain Injury Victims in Houston
When a TBI happens, it can have drastic effects on the victim and their loved ones. Medical costs can add up quickly, and if the brain injury is severe enough, it can leave the victim needing permanent treatment. At Ramsey Law Group, our Houston personal injury lawyers understand the intricacies of working with clients who have suffered brain injuries – especially at the hands of a negligent party. If you or someone you know was injured due to the negligent actions of another, contact us today to see how we can best assist you.
