traumatic brain injuries in biloxi mississipi

5 Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

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Each year, tens of thousands of individuals across the U.S. are seriously injured or killed due to traumatic brain injury (TBI). The Centers for Disease Control reports that TBI contributes to the deaths of over 50,000 individuals each year. This equates to more than 150 TBI-related deaths each and every day. Another 80,000 to 90,000 people experience the onset of a disability due at least in part to TBI.

Those who survive with this condition have symptoms that can last anywhere from just a few days in the mildest cases to the rest of their lives in cases that are more severe. The affects of TBI are not only felt by the person who suffers from it, but also by family and friends, who often need to take a central role in caring for the TBI sufferer and helping to manage the condition.

What is Traumatic Brain Injury?

TBI is a disruption to the normal function of the brain caused typically by a severe jolt, bump, or blow to the head. Not everyone who gets hit in the head ends up with TBI, and the severity of the condition varies widely from one individual to another. The mildest form of TBI is commonly known as a “concussion”. Concussions are temporary and usually last a few days or longer. On the other end of the spectrum, TBI can produce more severe symptoms that go on for weeks, months, and even indefinitely.

TBI affects each individual differently. There are a wide range of symptoms that can indicate the onset of this condition. These may include:

  • Dizziness;
  • Nausea;
  • Severe Headaches;
  • Blurred Vision;
  • Ringing in the Ears;
  • Difficulty with Communication;
  • Difficulty with Concentration;
  • Lack of Energy/Fatigue;
  • Mood Changes;
  • Impulsive or Risky Behavior;
  • Seizures;

What are the Leading Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury?

There are a number of reasons why TBI occurs. Some of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries include:

Falling

Falls occur all the time and in countless settings. Most of the time, when people fall down, they get back up and think nothing more of it. But sometimes, falls can result in serious and even catastrophic injuries. Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries, accounting for nearly half of all cases. TBI is usually caused by falls where the victim lands head-first and/or their head slams hard against the ground or another surface. Slips and falls occur frequently in the workplace, often because of dangerous or hazardous conditions. They can also happen when someone is a guest or visitor on someone else’s property. When an individual suffers TBI from a fall that results from the negligence or reckless actions of another party, they deserve to be fully compensated.

Being Struck By/Struck Against

The second-leading cause of TBI is being hit in the head by a falling or loose object, or the head slamming against a hard surface. This type of accident is particularly common in certain workplaces. One prime example is construction sites, where several workers are usually working near each other often in higher elevations and with heavy machinery and equipment. Because some construction companies do not take the proper steps to ensure their workers’ safety, workers in this environment are far more susceptible to these types of injuries.

Auto Accidents

Motor vehicle-related accidents are the third-leading cause of TBI in the U.S. These may include car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bus accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents. The impact of a vehicle crash can cause a major blow or jolt to the head, resulting in severe head trauma. Auto accident victims do not always feel the affects of TBI right away. Sometimes, it can take a while for the onset of various symptoms. This is why anyone who suffers head injuries after a vehicle accident should get medical attention immediately.

Violence

Various types of violence are the fourth-leading cause of TBI in the U.S. Examples include assault and self-harm. Intentional self-harm (i.e., suicide) is the second-leading cause of TBI-related deaths, and domestic assault is one of the leading causes of TBI-related deaths among children who are four years of age or under.

Others

Several other events that cause TBI can be put into the miscellaneous category. These may include fires and explosions, combat injuries, and injuries from high-impact sports; such as boxing, football, and hockey.

Suffering from TBI? Speak with a Mississippi Personal Injury Lawyer about your Legal Options

If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury and it was caused by the actions or omissions of another party, you deserve to be compensated. At Gardner Law Firm, we have over four decades of experience successfully representing victims suffering from TBI and other types of catastrophic injuries in Mississippi. We can thoroughly review your case and advise you of your legal rights and options.

For a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys, call our office today at 228-436-6555, or you may send us a secure and confidential message through our web contact form.