What are traumatic brain injuries?

April 27, 2023 | Personal Injury

About 223,000 people are hospitalized annually in the United States, including Florida, with a traumatic brain injury, and almost 70,000 die. Males are twice as likely to be hospitalized and three times more likely to die than females. Over 32% of traumatic brain injuries requiring hospitalization occur in people over 75, and they account for 28% of all traumatic brain injury deaths.

Traumatic brain injury definition

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a powerful impact or rapid or sudden movement damages the neurons and blood vessels in the brain. Symptoms can appear instantly or take several days to appear. Bleeding and microscopic injuries can occur alongside the major ones.

Movements causing traumatic brain injuries

Several movements can cause traumatic brain injuries. A person can get hit in the head, which causes the head to move simultaneously in many different directions. The blow can cause the head to move violently in one direction or jerk back and forth. Furthermore, auto accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries. When it stops moving, the brain bounces violently against the skull. While it often returns to its normal position, it can get stuck on one side, causing a personal injury. When this occurs, neurons and blood vessels can bleed and tear. Additionally, the brain can swell, causing further damage.

Treatment of traumatic brain injuries

While the priority of the medical care team will be to stop further damage, follow-up care may include having surgery and getting steroids. Often, a person with a traumatic brain injury loses some of their functions, so rehabilitation may be necessary. Additionally, the damage can change a person’s emotional health and therapy may be beneficial.

Traumatic brain injuries caused by sudden brain movements inside the skull can be life-altering. Call emergency services if you believe someone has suffered a traumatic brain injury.


Jared K. Newman Esq. is the Managing Partner of the Personal Injury division at South Florida Law, PLLC. Mr. Newman is an experienced civil litigation attorney who has dedicated his practice to representing those injured while driving, walking, at work or elsewhere due to the negligence of others. He is an experienced advocate for his clients against insurance companies that refuse to pay fair and just compensation for the injuries caused by their insureds. His expertise in litigation rounds out the capabilities that form the personal injury practice area of the firm. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, he received his bachelor’s degree in Criminology from the University of Florida and his Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law in Houston, Texas. Mr. Newman has been a member of the Florida Bar since 2010.