What Are The Top 3 Causes Of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) In The US?

When talking about the top causes behind traumatic brain injury (TBI), it is first important to understand the medical cause. The definition of traumatic brain injury used by University of California hospitals is any harm to the head and/or brain that disrupts normal brain activities, and which is the result of an external physical force. The trauma may occur because of a blunt object, a penetrating wound, or violent jolt that causes the brain to shift and come into contact with the hard bones of the skull. Depending on the severity and area of the brain affected, the implications of TBI can be mild to severe.

TBI falls under the umbrella of acquired brain injury, meaning that it is not the result of a genetic disorder; this specific form of harm occurs because of an event, often an accident. In situations where the incident was caused by negligence, victims may be entitled to compensation for their devastating losses. An Oakland traumatic brain injury lawyer can explain your rights if you were hurt due to any of the top causes of head injuries in the US. 

1. Motor Vehicle Collisions: Auto accidents are a primary cause of death and disability in the US, and TBI is one of many types of trauma vehicle occupants can suffer. A violent impact could lead a person to be tossed against a window or other fixture inside the car, and flying debris can also cause head injuries. In a crash with a larger, heavier truck, individuals in the passenger vehicle are more likely to sustain TBI. 

2. Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents: Just one look at the size differential between a motorized vehicle and a person on foot or bike, and you can see why these individuals are considered “vulnerable” road users. Bicycle riders and pedestrians lack the metal shell that protects occupants of a car, and there will almost always be a secondary impact in these accidents. TBI is common when the victim lands on pavement or other hard surface. 

3. Slip and Fall Incidents: Falls are a leading cause of head injuries and the number one reason people are hospitalized for TBI, according to the CDC. Business and property owners are required to maintain their premises in a safe condition, but accidents can occur when they breach the duty of care. 

You Can Rely on an Oakland Personal Injury Lawyer for Help with TBI Claims

If you sustained head injuries for these or other causes, you may have legal options for recovering compensation. To learn more about your remedies, please contact Venardi Zurada, LLP at our offices in Oakland or Walnut Creek, CA. We can schedule a free consultation to review your circumstances and explain the legal process.

Resource:

cae.ucla.edu/documentation-guidelines/acquired-traumatic-brain-Injury