Common Causes of TBI in California Personal Injury Cases
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change a life forever. Even a mild head injury may lead to long-term health issues. In California, many personal injury cases involve a TBI caused by another person’s negligence.
According to the California Department of Public Health, in a section of the population consisting of 11.2 million older adults living in California in 2020, TBIs contributed to 2,912 deaths, 17,528 hospitalizations, and 15,708 emergency department (ED) visits. The leading causes of these TBIs include unintentional situations, such as those we find in many personal injury cases, where one person unintentionally causes injury to another.
When someone else is responsible, the victim may be able to recover compensation. At Johnson Attorneys Group, we help people with brain injuries get the support they need. Contact us today for your free, personal case review (800) 208-3538.
Leading Causes of California TBIs
While there may be many circumstances that can lead to a traumatic brain injury, there are a few common causes among California’s TBI victims. The following will consider some of the most common.
1. Car accidents
Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries. When a crash happens, the sudden force can jolt the head or cause it to strike a hard surface. This impact may cause the brain to swell, bleed, or suffer lasting damage.
People may hit their heads on the steering wheel, window, or dashboard. Even with a seatbelt and airbags, a person can still suffer a TBI. Rear-end collisions, rollovers, and side impacts are especially dangerous.
Motorcycle riders face an even higher risk. Without the protection of a vehicle around them, they are exposed to direct impacts. Even with a helmet, riders may suffer brain injuries in a crash.
2. Falls and Slip-and-fall accidents
Falls are another top cause of TBI, especially among children and older adults. A person can fall on stairs, wet floors, icy sidewalks, or uneven ground. Many of these injuries happen in stores, workplaces, or other public spaces.
Property owners must keep their premises safe. If they fail to fix hazards or post warnings, they may be responsible for any injuries. This is part of California’s premises liability law.
A person who slips and falls may hit his or her head on the floor or another hard surface. The result can be a concussion, a brain bruise, or internal bleeding. Even a short fall can lead to serious symptoms like confusion, nausea, or memory loss.
3. Sports and recreational injuries
Playing sports is a great way to stay active, but it can also be dangerous. High-contact sports like football, soccer, and boxing often involve head impacts. Even lower-contact activities can lead to TBI if proper safety gear isn’t used.
Many sports injuries are preventable. Coaches, schools, and organizers should take steps to protect players. When they ignore safety rules or fail to treat injuries properly, they may be held liable.
Children and teens are especially at risk. A developing brain is more vulnerable to trauma. Multiple concussions over time can lead to serious long-term effects like memory problems, mood changes, and sleep issues.
4. Workplace and construction accidents
Many workers in California face a daily risk of head injury. This is especially true on construction sites, in factories, or in other dangerous environments. A falling object, slip, or fall from a height can cause a serious brain injury.
Employers are required by law to provide a safe workplace. They must follow safety guidelines and provide hard hats and other protective gear. If employers fail to do so, injured workers may be able to file a personal injury claim beyond workers’ compensation.
Even office jobs can carry some risk. Loose wires, broken stairs, or unsafe floors can lead to falls and TBIs. No matter the job, employers must protect their employees from avoidable harm.
What to Do After a TBI in California
If you or a loved one suffers a brain injury, get medical help right away. Some symptoms may not show up immediately. A doctor can do tests to check for bleeding, swelling, or pressure inside the skull.
You should also speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. TBIs often involve long-term care, missed work, and emotional stress. At Johnson Attorneys Group, we can help you understand your rights and options.
It’s important to act quickly. In California, there is a limited amount of time given to take legal action after a personal injury. Waiting too long may make it hard or impossible to recover the compensation you deserve.
Signs and Symptoms of a TBI
Not all brain injuries look the same. Some people may lose consciousness while others stay awake but feel confused.
Common symptoms of a TBI include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or nausea
- Memory loss
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Sensitivity to light or noise
In more severe cases, a person may have seizures, slurred speech, or lose the ability to move certain body parts. If you notice any of these signs after an accident, seek emergency care right away.
How Johnson Attorneys Group Can Help
At Johnson Attorneys Group, we have helped thousands of Californians with serious injury claims. We understand how hard it is to recover from a brain injury – physically, emotionally, and financially. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case. We offer free consultations and can meet you in person or by phone. If we take your case, we’ll fight to get you the full compensation you deserve.
A TBI can turn your life upside down. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Let Johnson Attorneys Group fight for your future.
Call us today at (800) 208-3538 or fill out our online form to schedule your free case review. We’re available 24/7 and serve clients throughout California. We are committed to protecting your rights and recouping your losses so that you or the person you love can focus on recovery.
