Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Colburn Law

Posted in Brain Injury on September 11, 2023

Facing the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be an overwhelming experience. The path to recovery is long and complex, and you could suffer from a host of financial, physical, and emotional losses. However, there is a road to justice.

In Washington, you have the right to pursue a lawsuit or insurance claim against the person responsible for your TBI, as long as another’s negligence led to the accident. By understanding the common causes behind these injuries, you can better navigate the challenges ahead and take steps toward justice and healing.

#1: Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of TBI. Whether you are involved in a collision between cars, a car-pedestrian accident, or even a motorcycle crash, the force exerted during these incidents can lead to severe head injuries. In some cases, objects can penetrate the skull during the crash, causing brain trauma. 

#2: Acts of Violence

Acts of violence, including assaults, gunshots, and domestic violence, can all lead to TBIs. Unfortunately, these situations can also lead to extensive emotional trauma. In these situations, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the person who assaulted you, even if the perpetrator is also facing criminal charges. 

#3: Fall Incidents

Falls, especially among the elderly, are a prevalent cause of TBI. A simple slip in the bathroom, a trip over an uneven surface, or a fall from a ladder can cause you to hit your head and suffer brain trauma. Many of these incidents are caused by dangerous property conditions, such as uneven pavement, spills, unmarked holes, and other hazards.

#4: Sports and Recreational Accidents

Although sports are a popular source of exercise and enjoyment, these activities come with their risks. TBIs are common in high-contact sports such as football, hockey, and boxing. Recreational activities like skiing or skateboarding can also result in injuries if proper precautions are not taken. Even with the proper protective equipment, you can still experience some degree of brain damage while engaging in physical activities.

#5: Being Struck by an Object 

Being hit by a falling object or encountering a fast-moving one can cause a TBI. Construction sites, industrial settings, or even everyday situations where items might fall from a height pose a serious risk to your health and safety. Protective headgear and adherence to safety regulations can significantly reduce the chances of such injuries, but they can still occur.

Filing a Lawsuit After a Traumatic Brain Injury in Washington

If you or a loved one have suffered a TBI in Washington due to someone else’s negligence, the effects can last for the rest of your life. You can suffer from loss of memory, cognitive impairments, chronic pain, and even personality changes. The emotional and physical toll is immeasurable, but the financial burden, with accumulating medical bills, therapy sessions, and potential loss of earnings, can add to the stress.

In these situations, you have legal options available to you. Washington law allows victims of negligence to seek compensation for their injuries and associated losses. In the state of Washington, if your TBI was caused by someone else’s carelessness or deliberate actions, you have the right to file a lawsuit.

After your accident, it is important to remain calm. Seek treatment at a hospital, even if you believe that your injuries are minor. Once you have addressed your medical needs, contact a Seattle traumatic brain injury attorney to discuss your case and identify your optimal path to financial recovery.