By Troy L. M. Brown, III, Lawyer at Metzger Wickersham
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month, recognized each March, provides an important opportunity to bring attention to the prevention of TBI and to promote strategies to improve the quality of life for persons living with TBI. The awareness month also provides a platform for educating the general public about the incidence of brain injury such as concussions, which were often overlooked in the past and professional athletes were expected to just “walk off” the injury and continue playing.
Recently, an increasing number of former National Football League (NFL) players have reported symptoms and/or diagnosis of Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) from playing through multiple violent collisions/concussions. More than 4,500 former players (or their estates) reached a settlement with the NFL in 2013 for concussion-related injuries sustained after playing.
Although it is great that TBIs are now recognized as serious injuries in the NFL and proper rule changes are being implemented to keep NFL players safe, it is important to recognize that TBIs do not only occur on the gridiron. This is important because chances are that you, like me, are not a professional football player in the NFL given that there are less than 2,000 players on team rosters versus well over 300 million people across the United States.
So what is a TBI? The “CDC defines a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury.
Who is at risk of a TBI? According to the CDC, “Everyone is at risk for a TBI, especially children and older adults.”
Are TBIs a serious injury? CDC research shows that “In 2014, an average of 155 people in the United States died each day from injuries that include a TBI.”
What are common causes of TBIs? Common causes of TBIs that we see at Metzger Wickersham include motor vehicle accidents and slip and falls. Other areas where TBIs may occur include work related injuries. In fact, according to the CDC, falls were the leading cause of TBI as of 2014.
TBI Symptoms
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, slip and fall, or work related accident and hit your head, it is important to keep an eye out for any symptoms of TBI such as a headache, dizziness, or forgetfulness. If you experience any symptoms of a TBI, seek medical attention right away. With proper awareness, we can help minimize the devastating effects of TBI and de-stigmatize brain injury through outreach and education.
It is important that we all remain aware of the risks, symptoms, and consequences of TBIs as they can affect everyone, including the most vulnerable population, children and senior citizens.
If you’ve been injured through no fault of your own, turn to Metzger Wickersham's experienced personal injury lawyers for advice. Medical bills can pile up quickly, and you may even find yourself unable to work for an extended period of time. Metzger Wickersham can guide you through the claims process and ensure that you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries. Call (888) 286-2850 to schedule your free consultation today