Sometimes you hear a story of someone whose life changed in a split second due to a traffic accident. While previously they may have been athletic and vibrant, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) might have altered their physical abilities and emotional state.
Although there are various ways a person might suffer a TBI, the effects can be permanently life-altering. And since more than 50 percent of all reported TBIs are caused by motor vehicle accidents, you might want to understand what you can do to protect yourself.
What can cause a traumatic brain injury?
A TBI can occur due to a significant force to the head. During a motor vehicle accident, this could happen in a variety of ways. Although all driving accidents can be serious, you should be especially diligent in seeking medical attention if you are involved in a rollover or trucking accident.
While there are other ways a brain injury might occur, you could potentially suffer a TBI in a motor vehicle accident if:
- The roof of the vehicle crushes in
- You hit your head on the steering wheel
- The force ejects you through the windshield
Although there always some risk involved with driving a vehicle, there are some things you can do to reduce your probability of sustaining a TBI.
How you can reduce your risk
Wearing a helmet is one of the most basic ways of protecting your brain. You wear a helmet while mountain biking – be sure to do so if you get on a motorcycle as well.
If you want to enjoy a night out on the town, there are plenty of options available to get you home safely. If you’ve been drinking, there is no reason for you to risk your safety, and that of those around you. Rather than getting in the driver’s seat, find a ride home.
You know that seat belts save lives. Your diligence in clicking your seat belt every time you get in a vehicle can help reduce your chances of sustaining a TBI – regardless if you are the driver or a passenger.
You might be able to hold someone accountable
There may be many factors involved in a motor vehicle accident. Perhaps someone did not maintain their vehicle properly, was intoxicated or using their cell phone when the accident occurred.
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, remember than an open wound need not be noticeable for a TBI to occur and many times injuries are not apparent immediately following an accident. However, if you get hurt due to someone’s negligence behind the wheel, you may be able to explore your options in holding them accountable.