Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern in the United States. It affects millions of people each year, with severe consequences for the victims and their families. When a TBI happens due to another party’s negligence, seeking legal guidance to seek compensation for the damages incurred is essential.
The Adley Law Firm in Harlingen, Texas, specializes in providing legal assistance to TBI victims and helping them navigate through the complex legal process.
The Prevalence of Traumatic Brain Injuries in the United States
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBI affects approximately 2.87 million individuals in the U.S. each year. This number includes emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and fatalities. The economic burden of TBI is immense, with direct and indirect costs estimated to be over $76.5 billion annually. Over the past decade, there has been a substantial rise in TBI cases, largely attributed to increased awareness and diagnosis.
Children are particularly vulnerable to TBI, with sports and recreational activities being significant contributors. The CDC reports that in 2014, an estimated 812,000 children aged 0-19 years were treated for TBI in U.S. emergency departments, and about half of these cases were due to sports and recreational activities.
Common Sources of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Harlingen
- Slips and Falls
Slips and falls are the leading cause of TBI in the United States. These incidents can happen in various settings, such as slip-and-fall accidents in public places, workplace incidents, or stumbling on stairs. Falls account for 48% of TBI-related emergency department visits and disproportionately affect the youngest and oldest age groups.
- Vehicle Collisions
Vehicle collisions are the second most common cause of TBI, accounting for about 17% of TBI-related emergency department visits. These accidents include car crashes, motorcycle accidents, bicycle collisions, and incidents involving pedestrians. In Harlingen, busy intersections and high-speed highways increase the risk of vehicle collisions, leading to TBIs.
- Accidental Blunt Force Trauma
Accidental blunt force trauma accounts for approximately 17% of TBI cases in the U.S. This category includes sports-related injuries from contact sports such as football, soccer, baseball, boxing, skateboarding, and ice hockey. These activities involve a high risk of head impacts, which can lead to TBI.
- Violent Attacks
Violent attacks are responsible for an estimated 10% of TBI cases in the United States. These acts can range from gunshot injuries to domestic violence and child maltreatment, including shaken baby syndrome.
- Miscellaneous or Undetermined Causes
The remaining 8% of TBI incidents are attributed to other or unknown factors, such as explosions or natural disasters. These cases may require additional investigation to determine the cause of injury and the responsible parties.
Therapeutic Approaches for TBI
Treatment options for moderate to severe TBIs vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Some common approaches include:
- Medications
Doctors may prescribe diuretics to reduce fluid buildup in the brain, anticonvulsant drugs to prevent seizures, or even drugs to induce coma in severe cases to allow the brain to heal.
- Surgical Procedures
Surgery may be necessary to remove hematomas (pools of blood), repair skull fractures, drain excess fluid, or create space for swollen brain tissue.
- Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is an essential part of TBI recovery, helping patients regain basic skills such as walking, talking, and eating. Long-term care may be required, depending on the severity of the injury.
TBI FAQ’s
To assist with understanding TBI and the legal implications, we have compiled a list of ten frequently asked questions. These questions address topics such as the signs and symptoms of TBI, the legal process for pursuing compensation, and the role of a Harlingen traumatic brain injury lawyer in TBI cases. We encourage you to review these questions and seek additional resources to better understand TBI and the legal process.
Consult a Harlingen Brain Injury Attorney at The Adley Law Firm
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to another party’s negligence, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable traumatic brain injury attorney. The Adley Law Firm in Harlingen specializes in representing clients who have suffered TBIs as a result of automobile accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and other situations.
At The Adley Law Firm, we offer a range of services to assist with your TBI case, including gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court. We understand the substantial expenses associated with TBI treatment and the importance of seeking compensation to cover these costs.
Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in handling TBI cases, ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries. We are committed to providing personalized legal representation and support throughout the entire process.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in the Harlingen area, we encourage you to contact The Adley Law Firm for legal support. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the complex legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve to cover the extensive costs related to TBI treatment and recovery.
