The Brain Injury Association of America has designated March as Brain Injury Awareness Month. This time is set aside to raise awareness of brain injury. It has been estimated that over two million people are victims of a traumatic brain (TBI) injury every year. Over 52,000 of these people die from their injury, while another 275,000 are hospitalized. Almost 80 percent of survivors of TBI are treated and released.

Additionally, thousands of individuals – children and adults – sustain an acquired brain injury. These injuries are from non-traumatic causes and affect an estimated 795,000 people. While not as severe as TBI, these injuries still have an impact on lives.

The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury

TBI can affect every area of a person’s life and the lives of their loved ones. When the way the brain functions is impaired, thinking, reasoning and memory are impaired as well. If a person is able to function, they may not function as well or in the same way they did prior to the brain injury. This can be frustrating for the person and those they care about.

At the same time, each milestone on the journey to recovery, every positive step is something to be celebrated. While caring for someone with TBI can be challenging, it can be rewarding as well. Brain Injury Awareness Month helps people come to terms with TBI and offers new perspectives.

Tips for Brain Injury Prevention

There are a few simple actions that can prevent a lifetime of pain.

  • Wear your seatbelt. This prevents you from being thrown from the vehicle in a collision, and it also prevents your head from hitting the dashboard or windshield if the vehicle should stop suddenly.

  • Use the proper car or booster seat for children. It’s critical to use approved, age- and size-appropriate car and booster seats for kids. Make sure the seat is secured properly.

  • The right kind of helmet protects your head. Not all helmets are made equally. There are some that look good or cute, but the protection they offer is slim to none. Whether riding a bicycle, off-road vehicle (ORV), motorcycle or other vehicles, where you are unprotected, it is vital to have an approved helmet. Also remember that while helmets can protect against head injury and skull fractures, they are not concussion-proof.

  • Block off stairs to protect young children. Infants and toddlers love to explore, and that is why it is important to use stair gates at the top and bottom of stairs.

  • Be aware of playground surfaces. Kids can play rough, and playgrounds are places where falls take place on a regular basis. To help prevent serious head injuries, make sure the surface of the playgrounds you visit have soft surfaces such as sand, shredded rubber or mulch.

The personal injury lawyers at Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., encourage you to take precautions and become aware of the actions you can take to prevent serious brain injuries. Contact us for a complimentary initial consultation about your personal injury case. We serve Port Charlotte, North Port, Englewood and surrounding areas in southwest Florida.