Head Injuries
Head injuries include both injuries to the brain and those to other parts of the head, such as the scalp and skull. Head injuries may be closed or open. A closed head injury is where the brain mater remains intact. In these cases, the skull can be fractured, but not necessarily. A penetrating head injury occurs when an object pierces the skull and breaches the brain mater. Brain injuries may occur over a wide area, only be located in a small area.
The number of new cases of head injury is 300 per 100,000 per year (0.3% of the population), with a mortality of 25 per 100,000 in North America. Head trauma is a common cause of childhood hospitalization. Common causes of head injury are car accidents, accidents at home or at work, falls, and assaults.
Surprisingly, experts have suggested that helmets may increase the risk of neck injury in a crash or fall. This is especially the case for children because they have a greater head to body ratio.
Usually, people buy helmets to protect their head in case of an accident. For instance, skiers and snowboarders use helmets to prevent a serious head injury. A study conducted in Europe, Asia and North America found that helmet use in recreational activities is benficial. However, the study failed to determine if the design, quality, or fit of the helmet had an impact on the helmet's protection. Experts also determined that "risks of head injury can be reduced by 35%...and between 2 and 5 of every 10 head injuries among helmet users could be prevented."
If a person is injured while playing a sport, a traumatic brain injury could likely happen. Brain injuries don't necessarily reslut in a long-term disability. The location of the injury and the extent of the damage caused have a huge effect on the outcome.
If you or someone you know has suffered a traumatic brain injury due to an accident or an assualt, it would be wise to consult with an experienced injury attorney in your area. The Myrtle Beach injury lawyers at The Mace Firm are ready to speak with you about your case. Call today to schedule your free consultation.