A traumatic brain injury may result from a variety of causes. The aftermath of brain trauma may include permanent disability or a prolonged coma. The medical expenses, therapy, rehabilitation and long-term care needed to care for a person with brain damage can be considerable. These traumas are a major cause of death and disability in Wisconsin and across the U.S., contributing to nearly 30 percent of deaths caused by injuries.

Brain trauma may result from a bump, jolt or blow to the head or the penetration of a foreign object into the head. A brain injury may be classified as mild to severe. Mild brain injuries are the most common and include concussions. In 2010, the nation experienced 2.5 million hospitalizations and emergency room visits due to brain injuries.

The problem of head injuries is growing throughout the state and nation. The rate of brain injury resulting from sports and recreational activities in children ages 19 and younger rose by 57 percent from 2001 through 2009. Falls are the leading cause of brain injury in all age groups. Other common causes of brain trauma include unintentional blunt trauma, motor vehicle crashes and assault.

When a traumatic brain injury results in brain damage or other symptoms, a thorough investigation of the circumstances may reveal whether the injury resulted from the negligence of another party. A victim who experienced brain damage as a result of someone’s negligence may be able to seek accident compensation. A personal injury attorney may be able to offer guidance on issues that contribute to accidents that result in head injuries, such as negligent driving, premises liability, lack of maintenance and insufficient lighting.

Source: CDC, “Traumatic Brain Injury in the United States: Fact Sheet“, October 15, 2014