Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by an external force that injures the brain, which can damage nerve cells and cause bleeding or swelling. This can happen any time someone’s head is bumped, hit or jolted. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), there are nearly 1.5 million people who suffer from TBI each year. While car accidents are the leading cause of TBI, other reasons include sports injuries or military incidents.
Brad Parker says, “In my career, auto accidents are by far the number one cause of brain injury due to the high-speed factor. I also see it in trip-and-fall cases. Most of the time, a brain injury is associated with a loss of consciousness but not always.”
Another cause for concern exists among young athletes. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is becoming increasingly present in those who participate in high school contact sports and suffer repeated concussions.
“There have been a few lawsuits against helmet manufacturers for producing unsafe products, but these cases are difficult to win. School districts are pretty much immune, and it has almost become a ‘buyer beware’ situation. If you are aware of the risk and allow your child to participate, it’s unlikely you can get compensation if an injury occurs,” Brad says.
Other common causes for TBI include bullet wounds and shaken baby syndrome.
Non-traumatic brain injuries are the result of things happening inside the body and not caused by outside factors. These are the most common causes of a non-traumatic brain injury:
Stroke
Stoke is the leading cause of non-traumatic brain injury. When a stroke occurs, cell death in the area deprived of blood will result. If there is a hematoma or hemorrhage because of a torn vein or artery, the loss of blood flow and damage to brain tissue will result in serious brain damage.
Infections
Because the brain and surrounding membranes are so susceptible to infection, viruses and bacteria can cause life-threatening diseases in the brain such as encephalitis and meningitis.
Chemical/Toxic
Chemicals and toxins such as solvents, carbon monoxide, insecticides and lead are harmful and can cause damage to neurons.
Hypoxia
When the blood is depleted of oxygen, irreversible brain injury can occur. Sometimes it can take only a few minutes for this to happen. Common conditions that might cause hypoxia include respiratory failure, sudden drop in blood pressure and heart attack. Hypoxia can result in memory problems and severe cognitive issues.
Tumors
Cancerous tumors can cause brain injury by invading the spaces of the brain. Enlarged tumors damage the brain because of the additional pressure they cause.
Have You Been Injured In A Texas Accident?
If you’ve been injured you need to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Bedford, Texas office directly at 817.440.3888 to schedule your free, no obligation consultation. We help personal injury clients throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington as well as all areas of Texas.
At Parker Law Firm, our experienced personal injury lawyers believe people matter. We are committed to our clients, not case numbers, and we believe in the power of the civil justice system. With years spent both representing accident victims and participating in the state legislative process, our founder, Brad Parker, has developed a deep understanding of the law and gained unique experience that helps him get results for his clients.
