Traumatic brain injuries are a serious issue that affects millions of people. Concussions are the most common form of a traumatic brain injury, and a common diagnosis following an auto accident.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 3.5 million people in the United States have TBI. Each year approximately 50,000 people die from traumatic brain injury. Another 235,000 people are hospitalized with TBI, while 1.1 million additional people are treated in emergency rooms and then released with TBI.
It is important to understand that TBI doesn’t just occur in sports. The CDC has reported that the following are leading causes of serious brain injury:
- Falls (28%)
- Motor vehicle accidents (20%)
- Assaults (11%)
Loss of consciousness is not necessary for a brain injury to occur. TBI has been referred to as the “silent epidemic” because it can occur without leaving any scars or showing any noticeable symptoms right away. In some instances it may take hours or even days before any symptoms are experienced.
Common symptoms of concussion include:
- Behavioral/personality changes
- Clumsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Lack of concentration
- Loss of balance
- Memory loss
- Ringing in the ears
- Sensitivity to noise and light
- Slurred speech
- Vision problems
Many people who suffer from TBI experience cognitive issues and find that their everyday lives are affected, making tasks that were once simple, difficult.
If you have been involved in a car accident or believe you may have sustained a traumatic brain injury, make sure to seek medical attention, then contact an injury lawyer who can help you recover compensation for your injury.
