Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe and life-altering injuries a person can experience. They occur when a sudden trauma damages the brain, disrupting its normal function. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening conditions, with long-term effects that impact cognitive, physical, and emotional health. Accidents leading to brain injuries are unfortunately common, and understanding their causes can help in prevention and awareness. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, call our office to speak with a Youngstown traumatic brain injury lawyer for legal assistance.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of brain injuries worldwide. The sudden impact during a collision can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to a TBI. Common scenarios include:
- Car accidents: High-speed collisions, rollovers, and rear-end crashes can result in both closed and penetrating brain injuries.
- Motorcycle accidents: Without the protection of a vehicle’s frame, motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to head injuries, even when wearing helmets.
- Bicycle and pedestrian accidents: When bicyclists or pedestrians are struck by vehicles, the lack of protection often leads to severe head trauma.
- Truck accidents: The sheer size and weight of trucks make these accidents particularly dangerous, often resulting in catastrophic injuries.
TBIs from motor vehicle accidents can range from concussions to severe brain damage, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Falls
Falls are a significant cause of brain injuries, particularly among young children and the elderly. They account for nearly half of all TBI-related hospitalizations. Common scenarios include:
- Slips and trips: Falls caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting in homes, workplaces, or public spaces can result in head injuries.
- Falls from heights: Incidents such as falling off ladders, stairs, or balconies can lead to severe trauma.
- Elderly falls: Older adults are particularly susceptible due to balance issues, weakened muscles, or medical conditions that increase the likelihood of falling.
- Workplace falls: Construction sites, warehouses, and other workplaces where employees work at heights pose a high risk of falls.
Falls can cause various TBIs, including concussions, contusions, and hematomas. Preventative measures like improving lighting, removing hazards, and installing handrails can reduce the risk.
Violence And Assaults
Violence is another major cause of brain injuries, often leading to severe and life-threatening trauma. Examples include:
- Physical assaults: Blunt force trauma from punches, kicks, or strikes with objects can cause TBIs.
- Gunshot wounds: Penetrating brain injuries from firearms are particularly devastating, often resulting in permanent disability or death.
- Domestic violence: Victims of abuse may sustain head injuries from being struck or pushed into objects.
- Shaken baby syndrome: This form of child abuse occurs when an infant is violently shaken, causing the brain to move within the skull and leading to serious injury or death.
Violence-related brain injuries often have long-term consequences, both physically and emotionally, for survivors. Addressing the underlying causes, such as domestic abuse or gun violence, is essential to reducing these incidents.
How Can Our Law Firm Help?
Brain injuries are life-altering events that can leave long-lasting or permanent impacts on victims and their families. Contact Joseph Law Group, LLC to find out what legal recourse you may have.
