Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are a major public health issue worldwide, impacting millions annually. According to one study, 64–74 million people suffer a TBI every year. That study stated that there are “irreparable long-term adverse effects of TBI on survivors, their families, and the healthcare system.” While initial treatment and rehabilitation receive most attention, the financial burdens of TBIs—from immediate to long-term care—are substantial. This post highlights the often-overlooked aspect of TBIs: the cost.
What Are Traumatic Brain Injuries?
Traumatic Brain Injuries occur when an external force causes brain dysfunction. Often resulting from a severe blow or jolt to the head or body, TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Causes encompass falls, vehicle-related collisions, sports injuries, and violent assaults.
Symptoms of TBIs can be physical, cognitive, and emotional, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, memory problems, mood swings, and difficulty with concentration. The variability and invisibility of these symptoms often make TBIs challenging to diagnose and treat.
The Immediate and Long-Term Financial Implications of TBIs
Direct Costs
Immediately following a TBI, the medical expenses can be daunting. Emergency care, surgical procedures, hospital stays, and rehabilitation services contribute to the direct costs faced by TBI survivors and their families. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the direct medical costs for TBIs in the United States totaled an estimated $13 billion in recent years. Another study estimated that, in 2016 alone, the overall healthcare cost of TBIs was $40.6 billion.
However, the financial impact extends far beyond initial medical care. Many survivors require ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling.
Additionally, modifications to living environments, such as wheelchair accessibility and safety adaptations, add to the financial burden.
Indirect Costs
The indirect costs of TBIs are equally distressing, though harder to quantify. These include lost productivity and income for survivors and caregivers, a factor that can have a profound long-term economic impact on families.
For survivors who can return to work, changes in their capacity to perform their duties often necessitate a shift to lower-paying jobs or result in diminished earning capacity.
The Emotional and Social Costs
While not financial, the emotional and social costs of TBIs are significant and intertwined with the overall impact. The stress of managing TBI-associated expenses can exacerbate mental health issues, strain relationships, and diminish the quality of life for survivors and their families.
Compensation for Brain Injuries Through Personal Injury Litigation
At National Trial Law we specialize in helping brain injury victims secure the compensation they deserve. Our expert attorneys provide aggressive legal representation and compassionate care to ensure you can focus on maximizing your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury due to negligence, contact us for a free consultation. Let our experienced team advocate for your rights and fight for the compensation you need.
Reach out to National Trial Law today at (833) 913-1885 to learn more.