Traumatic brain injuries (“TBI”), or an injury involving a jolt or
blow to the brain, can range in severity from mild, like a concussion,
to quite serious or even be fatal. Even if a person survives a
traumatic brain injury, he or she may have lifelong consequences.
Since there is no cure for traumatic brain injuries, steps should be
taken to prevent the injury from occurring in the first place.
Understanding the causes of traumatic brain injuries is an important
first step in prevention. Of course, everyone knows that motor vehicle
crashes are a leading cause of brain injuries, but they are not the
only cause. The following are some of the other leading causes of
traumatic brain injuries:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (“CDC”), falls were the
leading cause of traumatic brain injuries in 2013. Falls, usually have
a more serious impact on the very young and very old. Even though
slipping in the bathtub or falling out of bed may not sound like much
of an accident, it can have potentially fatal outcomes. To prevent
falls, older adults should install grab bars in the shower and a
slip-resistant surface on floors. A stool in the shower is also a good
idea in case a person becomes dizzy or disorientated. Other tips to
avoid falls are to keep walkways clear and to avoid throw rugs which
can slip and slide.
Sports Injuries. While American football and boxing are the two sports
that often come to mind when discussing traumatic brain injuries, they
are by far not the only sports where accidents can lead to serious
brain injuries. Cycling, baseball, softball, water sports, soccer,
winter sports, gymnastics, dance, cheerleading, hockey, basketball,
golf, and many others have all led to traumatic brain injuries. There
are also activities enjoyed especially by children like trampolines,
horseback riding, and skateboards/scooters that are also commonly
associated with TBI. The key to prevention is to wear protective gear
such as helmets and that the gear is in good condition.
Physical Violence. When most people think of traumatic brain injuries,
they usually think of a sports injury or some type of But
unfortunately, one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries
is physical violence. Being struck or strangled by a partner can
result in a TBI. The CDC estimates that approximately 25 percent of
women are survivors of domestic violence. Sadly, many victims of
domestic violence are unaware that they have suffered from a TBI
because it is often an invisible injury. If you find yourself in an
abusive relationship, it is important to know that help is available!
Contact your local domestic violence advocate service to see how they
can help.
Gun accidents. Young children are often fascinated by guns. Each year
children suffer serious or fatal injuries after being accidentally
shot with a family member’s gun. To prevent a child from playing with
guns, keep guns stored in a locked cabinet. Guns should be stored
unloaded and separate from ammunition.
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury after being
involved in an accident, it is important to speak with a skilled
Kansas City Injury Attorney as soon as possible. Only an experienced
Injury Attorney can determine whether you may be able to hold another
party responsible for your injuries. The attorneys at the Hubbard &
Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped countless injury victims, in both Kansas and
Missouri, obtain compensation. Our compassionate team of attorneys
will fight for your rights and hold the wrongdoers accountable. To
schedule an initial consultation with one of our Kansas City Personal
Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816)
472-4673.
