Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) impact millions of Americans every single year. Unfortunately, these injuries can have devastating and long-term effects on those who sustain them, as well as on their loved ones. That said, an important part of understanding these injuries is knowing which age groups are most susceptible to sustaining a TBI. Please continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Connecticut brain injury lawyer from Casper & de Toledo to learn more.
What age groups are most susceptible to sustaining a TBI?
While anyone can experience a TBI, some age groups are more likely to get a TBI than others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the age groups that have the highest rates of TBI-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths are:
- Children under the age of 5 years
- Older adolescents aged 15 to 19 years
- Adults aged 65 years and older
Why are these age groups more at risk?
There are several possible reasons why these age groups are more vulnerable to TBI. Some of them are as follows:
- Children under the age of 5 years have developing brains that are more susceptible to damage from trauma. They also have less-developed motor skills and coordination, which may increase their risk of falling or being injured by objects. Additionally, they may be exposed to abuse or neglect, which can cause intentional or unintentional head injuries.
- Older adolescents aged 15 to 19 years are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as driving, sports, or substance use, that can lead to accidents or violence. They may also have less awareness of the potential consequences of their actions or the need for safety precautions. While the brain, particularly the frontal lobes of the brain (think “executive function”) continue to develop into young adulthood, poor decision-making exposes this age group to many dangerous activities.
- Adults aged 65 years and older often experience problems with balance and have weaker bones and muscles, which may make them more prone to falls or fractures. They may also have chronic medical conditions or take medications that can affect their balance or cognition. Furthermore, they may have less access to support systems that can spare seniors from engaging in tasks thought to be low-risk.
How can a personal injury lawyer help?
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation for your past and future medical expenses, lost income and loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other damages. A personal injury lawyer can help you by assessing the circumstances of your case, and, from there, working to gather and present evidence to prove you’ve been harmed as a result of another party’s negligent act. As long as we can satisfy the burden of proof in your claim, you should receive compensation to help you deal with the damages you’ve sustained.
Contact Casper & de Toledo today to schedule your free case evaluation with our seasoned legal team.
