Traumatic Brain Injuries, Motorcycles, and Brain Injury Awareness Month
March is not just the beginning of spring; it also marks Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time to focus on the impact of brain injuries, their prevention, and the challenges faced by those who suffer from them. This year’s theme, “More Than My Brain Injury,” emphasizes empowering individuals with brain injuries to redefine their lives and share their unique stories.
What is Brain Injury Awareness Month?
Brain Injury Awareness Month is an annual observance that takes place in March each year. The purpose of this awareness month is to shed light on traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), raise public awareness about their causes, prevention, and impact, as well as to support individuals and families affected by brain injuries.
The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) is credited with creating Brain Injury Awareness Month. BIAA is a leading organization dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals with brain injuries and their families. They initiated Brain Injury Awareness Month to promote understanding and compassion towards those who have experienced brain injuries while encouraging prevention efforts.
Throughout the month, various activities, events, and educational campaigns are organized by BIAA and other organizations to spread awareness about TBIs, highlight the importance of safety measures, and showcase the achievements and resilience of individuals living with brain injuries. The goal is to change the narrative surrounding brain injuries and emphasize that individuals are “More Than My Brain Injury” by focusing on their strengths and capabilities rather than solely on their disabilities.
Traumatic Brain Injuries: A Devastating Impact
One of the most severe forms of brain injuries is known as a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). A TBI occurs when an external force disrupts the normal function of the brain, often leading to long-term consequences. This type of injury can result from a blow to the head causing a skull fracture, a collision with external force causing a closed head injury, or penetration of the skull by an object.
Symptoms of TBI may include:
– Confusion and difficulties with concentration
– Persistent or worsening headaches
– Dizziness
– Loss of consciousness
– Nausea and vomiting
– Seizures or convulsions
– Dilated pupils
– Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
– Memory loss or amnesia
– Coma
The Impact of Motorcycle Accidents on TBIs
Motorcyclists face a higher risk of TBIs compared to drivers of cars and trucks due to the lack of enclosure and restraints provided by motorcycles. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there were approximately 2.5 million TBI-related emergency department visits, 288,000 hospitalizations, and nearly 57,000 TBI-related deaths in 2014.
Preventing TBIs in Motorcycle Accidents
The most effective way to prevent TBIs during motorcycle accidents is by consistently wearing protective helmets. California law mandates that everyone over the age of 17 must wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle. Additionally, motorcyclists can reduce their risk of severe TBIs by adhering to traffic laws, especially speed limits, avoiding riding in adverse weather conditions, and never operating a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The Life-Altering Impact of Motorcycle-Related TBIs
A TBI resulting from a motorcycle accident can profoundly alter a rider’s life. In less severe cases, victims may recover fully within a few weeks. However, those with more severe TBIs may experience long-term physical and mental impairments, altering their ability to lead a normal life. In the worst cases, TBIs can lead to coma, vegetative states, or even fatalities.
Legal Help for Motorcycle Accident Victims
If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI or other serious injuries due to a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for the damages incurred. The Ryan Law Group, a reputable personal injury law firm in Manhattan Beach, has been championing the rights of motorcycle accident victims in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Hawthorne, Gardena, El Segundo, Torrance, Redondo Beach, and other South Bay California communities for over 30 years.
We urge you to contact The Ryan Law Group at 310-321-4800 without delay to consult with our highly experienced Manhattan Beach motorcycle accident lawyers about your case. Our team handles all motorcycle accidents and personal injury cases on a contingency basis, which means there are no upfront fees for our legal representation, and we only collect our fee after we’ve successfully won your case. Let us fight for your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve for your motorcycle accident injuries.