Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden force impacts the brain. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild/moderate to severe, depending on the force and location of impact. A blow to the head or a severe jerk to the body can cause a TBI.

A traumatic brain injury can cause life-altering consequences. In the mildest forms, a TBI can result in damage to brain cells. Moderate and severe injuries – like those resulting from a serious car accident – can include deep bruising of brain tissues, tearing, bleeding, and other physical damage. Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can range from nausea and dizziness, to loss of coordination, profound confusion, and unconsciousness. In the most severe cases a TBI can lead to death.

The Leading Cause of TBI – Slip and Fall Accidents

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that slips and falls are the number one cause of traumatic brain injury in the United States. Forty percent of TBIs are caused by slip and fall accidents. For children aged 0-14, falls account for 55 percent of TBIs. For older adults, age 65 and older, the number is even more staggering. A full 81 percent of traumatic brain injuries in the elderly is caused by falls.

Motor Vehicle Accidents and Traumatic Brain Injury

Nearly a third of traumatic brain injury deaths occur in motor vehicle accidents. Car crashes account for 14 percent of TBIs in all age groups. Teens and young adults are the most likely group to be injured in a motor vehicle crash. 

In many cases, a motor vehicle accident occurs through no fault of your own. Sometimes, the crash is the fault of another driver. Too often, a TBI results from an injury crash brought on by distracted driving, aggressive drivers, or impairment due to drinking or consuming other substances while behind the wheel.

Getting Help after a TBI

If you or someone you love suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as the result of a slip and fall accident or car wreck, you may be entitled to compensation. At the Law Offices of Houston M. Smith, P.C. we are committed to helping our clients work through the complicated issues of liability and negligence in traumatic brain injury cases. Contact us today at 972-325-6042 for more information.