What Are the Common Causes of a Traumatic Brain Injury?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 1.7 million Americans will suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) this year. Of those individuals, 1.3 million will seek medical attention, while 275,000 will be hospitalized and another 52,000 will lose their lives. So what are the most common causes of brain injuries today? A new study shows the answer to that question changes with age.

According to an article from NPR News, the most common causes of brain injuries are different depending on how old you are. For children younger than age 12, falls from elevation are listed as the cause of a majority of brain-related injuries. As children grow and become teenagers though, assault becomes the leading cause for a TBI. Such injuries accounted for almost one-quarter of all TBIs sustained by teens between the ages of 13 and 17.

Sports related injuries and car accidents were also listed as a common cause of brain injuries.

So what should you do if you or a loved one has sustained a head injury? Disability Professionals LLC say the first step that should be taken is to seek the medical attention you need. Only then should you attempt to document the case by getting information from witnesses and taking pictures. Finally, discuss your legal options with a qualified legal representative.