The human brain is the most complex organ in the body, and it is also one of the most fragile. Any injury to this vital organ can severely disable a person for the rest of his or her life. Unfortunately, traumatic brain injuries are one of the leading causes of death in Delaware and across the United States. Injuries to the head are fairly common, but many people are unaware that they need to seek treatment no matter how minor the injury may seem. One recent study shows a troubling increase in traumatic brain injury (TBI) deaths caused by falls.
According to a report recently published by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fall-related traumatic brain injury deaths have been steadily increasing over the last decade. The report says deaths from fall-related brain injuries increased 17 percent from 2008 to 2017. Reportedly, there were 4.52 per 100,000 people in 2017, which was up from 3.86 per 100,000 individuals in 2008.
In total, the report said there were 12,311 fall-related TBI deaths in 2008 and 17,408 deaths in 2017. Apparently, fall-related brain injuries have greatly impacted the older population in the United States. Among adults over the age of 75, reports said the rate of fall-related TBI deaths was 54.08 per 100,000. This rate was about eight times higher than individuals between the ages of 55-74.
In reality, brain injuries can happen to anyone regardless of age. In Delaware, when the negligence of another party contributes to brain injuries, victims and families can take legal action by consulting an experienced legal representative. A successful lawsuit could provide monetary damages to help victims and families through this difficult experience.
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