According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that 1.7 million people suffer traumatic brain injuries in the United States each year. On average, TBIs result in 52,000 fatalities and 275,000 hospitalizations annually. In San Bernardino, California, and across the nation, people who sustain a traumatic brain injury in a workplace accident may face a wide variety of hardships, such as costly medical expenses, lost productivity and adverse effects associated with TBIs (such as memory problems).
Research that was published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information provides additional insight into workplace accidents and TBIs. The study, which assessed fatal occupational traumatic brain injuries during 2003 to 2008, points out that TBIs which occur on the job are not thoroughly documented. After examining almost 7,300 fatal occupational TBIs, researchers identified some of the main causes of fatal TBIs in the workplace, including motor vehicle accidents, falling, assault and violence as well as accidents involving equipment and objects.
After reviewing thousands of traumatic brain injuries which took place on the job, researchers found that men had a higher fatality rate than women (15 times greater). Furthermore, workers who were over the age of 65 were found to have a higher rate of fatality when compared to workers of other age groups. When it comes to occupational traumatic brain injuries which result in the loss of life, some of the most dangerous industries include construction, agriculture, fishing, forestry and transportation. However, TBIs can occur in any workplace environment and it is important for employers and employees to focus on preventing these incidents.
