Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are known as a “silent epidemic” in the U.S. because many of the symptoms are often delayed or overlooked. Due to the prevalence of this condition, chances are that someone you know could very well be struggling with a brain injury.
For more than three decades, the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) has led the nation in observing Brain Injury Awareness Month every March. The goal of this annual campaign is to:
- Destigmatize brain injury within the community
- Increase awareness of brain injury as a chronic condition
- Promote the many types of treatment options available
- Empower those living with this condition and their caregivers
First, Some Brain Injury Statistics
TBI is a leading cause of death and disability for individuals, including children, living in the U.S. To put this into perspective, here are some statistics from a 2014 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- There are about 2.8 million brain injuries sustained in the U.S. every year.
- TBI contributed to the deaths of 56,800 people, including 2,529 children.
- Falls were the leading cause of TBI-related emergency room visits and contributed to nearly half of all incidents.
- The other most common causes of TBI include motor vehicle accidents and being struck by objects.
- Deaths from head injuries accounted for 34% of all traumatic deaths.
Ways that You Can Help Prevent Head Injuries
While there may be nothing you can do to prevent accidents caused by other people, there are some general steps you can take to keep yourself and your family safe by reducing the risk of a potential brain injury:
- Use your seat belt whenever you’re in the car.
- Ensure your children are properly secured in a child car seat or booster seat.
- Always drive sober and never get into a car with a driver who is under the influence.
- Wear helmets when biking, skateboarding, riding a horse, or playing other sports where protective headgear is needed.
- Put up gates around stairs to prevent children from climbing and/or falling down.
At Ginnis & Krathen, our Fort Lauderdale injury attorneys represent brain injury survivors and their families. If you need assistance following an accident, turn to our team for help pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve. We will guide you through the legal process from start to finish and do everything in our power to help you recover.
Contact our firm at (954) 905-4600 to get started on your case!