According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a contributing factor in 31 percent of all injury-related deaths in the United States. TBI rates are generally higher for male victims than for female victims. Adults that are 75 years and older have the highest rates of hospitalization and death related to TBIs.
While the issue of TBIs has long been a serious public health concern, it has only recently begun to receive the attention that it deserves. The increased focus by federal and state governments should provide some measure of renewed hope to victims and their loved ones.
National efforts to increase awareness about brain injuries
In 2013, President Barack Obama publicly announced plans to implement the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies initiative, known as BRAIN, a multimillion-dollar research and funding initiative. The project’s aim is to develop innovative approaches to researching and studying the brain and spinal cord and to improve the ability of doctors to properly diagnose and treat TBIs.
North Carolina legislative efforts
The state of North Carolina has twice recently made significant efforts to address TBIs. In 2009, rules were adopted for the licensure and accreditation of residential treatment facilities for individuals with TBIs. In 2011, the Gfeller-Waller Concussion Awareness Act was signed into law to protect student athletes by focusing on education, emergency action and postconcussion protocol implementation, and restricting clearance to play or practice following a concussion.
Only victims of traumatic brain injuries and their loved ones truly know the devastating effects associated with such injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI, you should consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights. The attorneys at Hensley Cloninger & Greer, P.C. will draw on their experience to assist you with your personal injury claim.