Blogs from March, 2021

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are known as a “silent” epidemic in the U.S. because symptoms are often not immediately apparent. However, the lifelong ramifications of such injuries can be detrimental to one’s quality of life and impact a person in several ways.

For more than three decades, the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) has led the nation in observing Brain Injury Awareness Month, a national campaign that takes place every March. The goals of this campaign are to:

• Increase understanding of TBI as a chronic condition
• Reduce the stigma associated with TBI
• Empower those living with this condition and their caregivers
• Improve care and treatments available to brain injury survivors

Brain Injury Statistics

It’s important to understand the prevalence of this condition and the most common causes. Brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability for individuals in the U.S. Here are some startling statistics from a 2014 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• There were about 2.87 million TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths that year.
• TBI contributed to the deaths of 56,800 people, including 2,529 deaths among children.
• Falls were the leading cause of TBI, accounting for 48% of all incidents.
• The other most common causes of TBI included motor vehicle accidents and being struck by objects.
• Falls were the leading cause of death for persons 65 years of age or older.
• Being struck by or against an object was the highest cause of TBI among those 5 to 14 years of age.

Raising Awareness During This Campaign

When many people participate, small actions have the potential to make big changes. If you would like to do your part in raising awareness during Brain Injury Awareness Month, here are several ways you can do so:

• Donate to a nonprofit organization that furthers brain injury research
• Volunteer at an organization that serves brain injury survivors
• Post your support on social media
• Wear green, the official color of the campaign
• Listen to someone’s story who has been affected by TBI

At Effres & Effres, we understand that a brain injury can leave your life completely shattered. You shouldn’t be left to pick up the pieces. If your injury was caused by another person’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at (818) 222-9720 for dedicated, experienced legal advocates in your corner. We are ready to protect your rights to compensation so you can focus on your recovery.