Have You Suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Traumatic Brain Injury x ray

Published: September 16, 2015 • Republished: August 22, 2024 • Updated: March 2, 2026

Every day, 190 people lose their lives to injuries involving a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Among adults 75 and older, TBIs are a leading cause of death and disability, accounting for 28% of all TBI‑related fatalities. Today, an estimated 5.3 million Americans are living with long‑term disabilities caused by a TBI.

A TBI occurs when a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury, disrupts normal brain function. Even “mild” TBIs—commonly known as concussions or mild head trauma—can cause brief confusion, disorientation, or loss of consciousness. These mild injuries make up 70–90% of all TBIs, yet their impact can be anything but mild.


Key Causes and Risk Factors

In the U.S., TBIs are involved in:

  • Falls (about 48%) — the leading cause, especially in older adults and young children.
  • Motor vehicle crashes (17%) — the second most common cause.
  • Assaults (9%) — including domestic violence and child abuse.
  • Sports and recreation (8%) — concussions are particularly common among youth athletes.Traumatic brain injury car crash car accident motor vehicle crashes

Because symptoms may take days or weeks to appear, TBIs are frequently missed or misdiagnosed, especially in older adults whose symptoms may resemble other medical conditions. Symptoms can be subtle but they can lead to serious health issues, affecting

  • Thinking (memory and reasoning, ability to think clearly)
  • Sensation (touch, taste, smell)
  • Language (communication, expression)
  • Emotion (personality changes, acting out, social inappropriateness)

Our knowledgeable staff is available at (877) 284-6600.


How TBIs Affect the Brain and Body

A traumatic brain injury can disrupt nearly every aspect of daily life. Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue, headaches, dizziness, or balance issues
  • Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, or slowed thinking
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Mood changes or personality shifts
  • Loss of smell or changes in taste
  • Visual disturbances

For children, any level of TBI—mild, moderate, or severe—can interfere with brain development, learning, behavior, and social participation.


Questions? Contact us at (877) 284-6600.


Who is Most Affected by Traumatic Brain Injury

traumatic brain injury older adults blow to the head disability cause of death falls

Those who have a greater likelihood of dying from a TBI or living with long-term problems resulting from an injury include:

  • Adults 75 years and older
  • Racial and ethnic minorities
  • Military service members and Veterans
  • Individuals experiencing homelessness
  • People in correctional facilities
  • Survivors of intimate partner violence
  • People with lower incomes or without health insurance

Long-Term Impact and Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injuries

Recovery depends on the severity of the injury, the person’s age and health, and the quality of care received afterward. While many people recover fully, 15% of those with a mild TBI experience symptoms lasting a year or longer. Severe TBIs can lead to lifelong disabilities, ongoing medical needs, and significant financial strain.

Don’t ignore signs of a potential TBI or concussion. Be safe and either go to the emergency room or visit your doctor as soon as possible.

  • Approximately 5.3 million Americans are living with a TBI-related disability.
  • Fifteen percent of people with a mild TBI have symptoms that last one year or more.
  • Around 50% of moderate to severe TBI survivors experience long-term disabilities that affect employment, relationships, and daily independence.
  • One in three survivors struggles with depression or anxiety within the first year.
  • Cognitive challenges such as memory loss, slowed processing, and poor concentration are common and may persist for years.

Source: Brain Injury Statistics and Facts: Global Impact and Key Trends


Traumatic Brain Injury Stories

The traumatic brain injury section on the Centers for Disease Control website offers a variety of resources, data and statistics, and more about TBIs and concussions. As you can see the CDC and other organizations share stories that highlight how TBIs affect people of all ages and backgrounds:


Legal Help After a Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury can change your life in an instant. When a TBI is caused by negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical bills
  • Rehabilitation and long‑term care
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life

CALL NASH & FRANCISKATO FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CASE REVIEW

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Those who survive a TBI can face effects that can last a few days to disabilities which may last the rest of their lives. Severe TBIs can be financially devastating, including ongoing medical expenses and lost time from work.

Our experienced personal injury team at Nash & Franciskato is here to help you understand your legal options and fight for the support you deserve.

CALL (877) 284‑6600 FOR A FREE, NO‑OBLIGATION CASE REVIEW

If your brain injury was caused by negligence, you may be able to obtain compensation to cover these costs. Seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you evaluate your legal options. Contact us at (877) 284-6600 for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.

START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW TODAY

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Photo Credits: tommaso1979(Ester Bezzini) Image file. via depositphotos.com •  sweet_tomato(manassanant pamai) Image file. via depositphotos.com • stevanovicigor(Igor Stevanovic) – Image Filevia depositphotos.com • Kzenon(Arne Trautmann) – Image Filevia depositphotos.com 

Sources: Brain Injury Institute, CDC, Brain Injury Association of America, CDC Health Disparities

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