According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there were 214,110 traumatic brain injury (TBI)-related hospitalizations in 2020. In the following year, deaths because of traumatic brain injuries were approximately 69,473. The truth is, a TBI can totally change a person’s life. Whether it is a mild concussion or a more serious injury, TBIs can have long-term health complications and emotional struggles.
Additionally, medical bills can lead to financial challenges. This is where skilled TBI lawyers at TopDog Law come into the picture. They can help victims pursue compensation and get justice for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.
In this article, we will discuss how TBIs can happen and how you can reduce the risk of getting one.
Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Understanding how traumatic brain injuries occur is the first step towards protecting yourself and your loved ones. Common causes include:
Falls
Falls are the leading cause of TBIs, mostly among children and adults over 65 years old. Statistics show that 50% of TBIs are from falls alone. Something as simple as slipping in the bathroom or tripping over an uneven surface, let’s say a sidewalk, can lead to a serious head injury.
Car Accidents
Motor vehicle crashes are another major cause of TBIs. This can be whether you are driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or even just walking or biking near traffic. Crashes can result in sudden and violent head trauma. These types of injuries are dangerous because the force involved in a car crash is very severe.
Sports Injuries
Sports-related injuries are common among athletes of all sports and ages. High-impact sports like football, hockey, soccer, and skateboarding have a higher risk of head injuries. Players need to take proper precautions or wait long enough after an injury before returning to the pitch.
Violence and Assault
Violence like domestic assault, being hit by an object, or when you are in a situation where a weapon is involved can lead to a TBI. Infants and young children are more vulnerable in cases of abuse because of things like shaken baby syndrome.
Workplace Accidents
Accidents sometimes occur, especially in environments like construction sites, warehouses, and factories. There are risks of falling from ladders or being hit by falling objects. In fields like construction, operating machinery without the proper protection poses a risk of getting a traumatic brain injury on the job.
How to Reduce the Risk of TBIs
The good news is, TBIs are, in a way, preventable.
Wear Protective Gear
Taking safety seriously wherever you are can make a huge difference. Start by wearing proper protective gear. For example, helmets are essential when:
- Biking
- Riding a motorcycle
- Playing contact sports like football and rugby
- Working in high-risk environments
It may feel like too much at times, but the protection you get is important. When it comes to sports, enforcing safety rules and encouraging athletes to speak up when they are hurt is important. Coaches and parents should know the signs of a concussion and never pressure players to “push through it” after a head injury.
Drive Safely
Ensure you wear a seatbelt every time you get in a car. Avoid distractions as much as possible, like looking at your phone, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Prevent Falls
Preventing falls at home and work can also go a long way. Install bars in the bathroom, use non-slip mats in wet areas, and keep hallways clear from clutter. While at work, follow all the safety guidelines, use harnesses if you are working at heights, and make sure tools and equipment are secured.
Finally
Traumatic brain injuries can happen in the blink of an eye, but with the right precautions, many can be avoided. By understanding how TBIs happen and taking the steps to reduce the risk, you can protect yourself.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
