P&N BLOG | The Frequency of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents are a distressingly common occurrence on the roads of Illinois and the rest of the United States. The consequences of these accidents can be severe, ranging from property damage to debilitating injuries. One of the most concerning injuries resulting from car accidents is traumatic brain injury (TBI). In this blog post, we’ll look into the statistics and insights from various sources to shed light on the frequency and severity of traumatic brain injuries in car accidents.

Understanding the Statistics

According to The National Library of Medicine, a compilation of 11 studies encompassing 2,769 patients involved in accidents with pedestrians, motorcycles, or cars, car accidents were responsible for 43% of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This figure is higher compared to motorbike accidents at 30% and pedestrian accidents at 27%. Interestingly, when considering studies that included pedal bicycles, car accidents dropped slightly to 40%, while motorbike and pedestrian accidents were both associated with 23% of TBI cases. Pedal bike accidents accounted for 14% of traumatic brain injuries.

Another study underscores the gravity of the situation by highlighting that while car accidents contribute to approximately 14% of all TBI cases in the US, they are the leading cause of TBI-related deaths among children and young adults. This sobering fact emphasizes the urgent need to address the issue of traumatic brain injuries resulting from car accidents.

The Hidden Complexity of TBIs

What makes traumatic brain injuries resulting from car accidents even more alarming is that they can occur even without a direct impact to the head. As explained in Source 2, the physical force generated by a collision can actually move the brain within the skull, leading to injury. This is why it’s imperative that individuals involved in car accidents seek medical attention, even if they don’t believe they’ve experienced a significant head impact.

Deeper Insights from Research

A study published in the academic journal Brain Communications, offers an in-depth perspective on the relationship between road traffic collisions and traumatic brain injuries. A study involving over 2,000 collisions in Great Britain’s Road Accident In-depth Studies database revealed that approximately 20.2% of casualties sustained a traumatic brain injury. This includes varying degrees of severity, from mild to moderate-severe injuries.

The study’s findings also highlighted key patterns in traumatic brain injuries resulting from car accidents. Notable pathologies included skull fractures, subarachnoid hemorrhage, focal brain injuries, and subdural hematomas. The study emphasized the role of velocity change (delta-V) in influencing brain injury risk. Higher delta-V values were associated with an increased risk of moderate-severe brain injuries across all road user types.

Interestingly, the study found that pedestrians and cyclists were at a higher risk of moderate-severe brain injuries compared to car occupants when accounting for delta-V. Wearing a cycle helmet was found to provide protective benefits, particularly against skull fractures and subdural hematomas.

Taking Action for Safer Roads

These insights from various sources underscore the importance of addressing traumatic brain injuries resulting from car accidents. Whether you’re a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, the risks are significant. While modern vehicles are equipped with collision notification systems, there’s always room for improvement in road safety.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident and suspect a traumatic brain injury, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Additionally, consulting with legal professionals experienced in personal injury cases can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.

The frequency and severity of traumatic brain injuries in car accidents cannot be underestimated. By understanding the statistics, complexities, and risk factors associated with TBIs, you can make informed decisions to stay safe on the road and seek appropriate assistance in the unfortunate event of an accident. Your health and well-being are paramount, and taking proactive steps can contribute to safer roads for everyone.

If you or a loved one have suffered a traumatic brain injury due to another’s negligence, contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website.