March Is Brain Injury Awareness Month

Mar 3, 2014

Brain injuries affect thousands of Nebraska residents in Omaha and elsewhere in the country. Every March, the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) and other groups, including many experienced Omaha, Nebraska brain injury lawyers, mark Brain Injury Awareness Month to educate the public about the risks of brain injury and the ways in which families can help protect themselves and others from these serious injuries.

This year, the theme for Brain Injury Awareness Month is "Anytime, Anywhere, Anyone: Brain Injuries Do Not Discriminate." According to the BIAA, 2.4 million Americans suffer a brain injury each year, including 475,000 children. In the U.S. alone, 5.3 million people live with the long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury. In every case, early identification and treatment of the brain injury is key to minimizing the damage.

Common causes of brain injury include falls, car accidents, and workplace accidents. Children may also suffer brain injuries as a result of playing on playgrounds, riding bicycles, and engaging in other playtime activities.

The costs of a brain injury can be staggering. The BIAA estimates that inpatient hospital care for a serious brain injury costs about $8,000 per day. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the costs of brain injuries in the United States may reach $76 billion per year in medical expenses and lost productivity.

Because a brain injury can harm anyone, it is important to practice safety when driving, riding a bicycle or motorcycle, playing sports, or engaging in other activities that increase the risk of a fall or a blow to the head. If you've been injured, an experienced brain injury lawyer can help you understand and protect your legal rights.

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