March is Brain Injury Awareness Month

The brain is one of the most powerful, complicated organs of the human body, so it’s not surprising that trauma to the head can lead to severe, life-changing injuries. To support the more than 5.3 million Americans who live with long-term permanent brain injuries, the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) established March as Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month. For more than three decades, BIAA has dedicated this month to educating the public about TBI, the impacts it has on victims and their families, and how to prevent these serious injuries from occurring.

Despite these public education efforts, TBI remains a significant threat to people of all ages. Injury-causing accidents are commonplace in Miami, including auto collisions, slip and falls, medical malpractice, and many others. These incidents are usually linked to negligence, so you may gain peace of mind knowing that you have remedies if you or a loved one suffered a head injury. A South Florida traumatic brain injury attorney can assist with the legal process, but some key takeaways from TBI Awareness Month may be informative. 

Statistics on Brain Injuries and Causes 

The medical definition of TBI is any disruption in the normal functioning of the brain that results from a blow or jolt to the brain, or a penetrating head injury. The injuries may be minor and temporary, but TBI also encompasses brain bruising and bleeding, swelling, destruction of brain tissue, and many other types of harm. Data compiled by the BIAA reveals the frequency and severity of TBI:

• Around 2.8 million victims experience a TBI every year, and approximately one-third of them are children
• Almost half of all head injuries are linked to falls
• The second leading cause of TBI is being struck by or against an object
• Other causes of traumatic head injuries may include motor vehicle collisions, intentional assault, and medical malpractice
  

Long-Term Consequences for Victims 

The specific impairments related to TBI depend on the severity of the trauma and the area of the brain affected. In the short term, the effects of TBI may include unconsciousness, memory loss, headaches, and difficult falling or staying asleep.

Long-term consequences of TBI can be severe, especially when head injuries lead to permanent disability. The physical, cognitive, and emotional effects may include:

• A vegetative or minimally conscious state
• Recurrent seizures, often termed post-traumatic epilepsy
• Blood vessel damage, which puts the victim at risk of stroke and blood clots
• Paralysis
• Cognitive issues, including effects on memory, learning, and concentration
• Difficulty speaking or understanding others
• Depression, anxiety, and mood swings

In addition to the victim’s physical and mental trauma, TBI affects family members who may be providing care and support for a loved one who has lost independence after a brain injury. 

Consult with Our Florida Brain Injuries Lawyers About Your Options 

If you sustained a TBI after being hurt in an accident that was not your fault, it is critical to reach out to an experienced attorney. Our Miami brain injury lawyers at Freidin Brown, P.A. are standing by to serve your needs, so please contact our offices today to set up a free consultation.