Can I Suffer a Traumatic Brain Injury while Wearing a Bike Helmet?

Over the past few years, the NFL has paid hundreds of millions of dollars Settling thousands of player lawsuits to attract national attention the connection between football and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Yet Bicycle accidents result in many more TBIs each year than any other sportincluding soccer, basketball, soccer and hockey.

Studies have shown Wearing a helmet while cycling can significantly reduce the severity of TBIs in accidents by up to 88%. In a worrying development The rate of head injuries per active cyclist has increased by 51%, even if helmet use has increased significantly.

Experts have suggested a number of reasons why the number of TBIs among cyclists continues to increase. Peter Ubel, a doctor and behaviorist at Duke University, believes that helmets create a false sense of securityThis makes drivers feel insensitive to injuries and are more likely to take unnecessary risks. Also, helmets alone cannot completely protect the brain from oblique impacts if the head is hit at an angle. As Steve Broglio, Director of the NeuroTrauma Research Laboratory at the University of Michigan, explained: “While traditional Bicycle helmets In general, they do a good job of protecting our skulls. They do little to reduce the rotational forces in an accident that are responsible for brain injuries. “

How do I know if I have experienced a traumatic brain injury?

There are four common categories of symptoms to look for:

Common symptoms of severe traumatic brain injury

Concussions are “mild” TBIs that can be caused by even a small blow to the head. Current research has shown that concussions can have a significant impact on memory and thinking skills, even when the seemingly mild concussion was not reported and did not appear to require treatment. Some of these symptoms may appear right away; others may take weeks or months to be noticed.

What types of bicycle accidents lead to traumatic brain injuries?

According to the NIHMotor vehicle collisions are most likely to result in severe TBIs, which can result in serious injury or death to cyclists 18% of the crashes. Over 75% of collisions with motor vehicles occur at intersections, driveways and other intersections where motorists and cyclists did not give in. Not surprising, Crashes are more likely in the evening when there is poor visibility, and on roads with higher speed limits and narrower lanes.

Among children The majority of TBIs affect 10 to 14 year olds (46%) and boys (72%). This group is particularly prone to bicycle accidents because they are not always aware of their surroundings and their speed.

What can I do to prevent traumatic brain injury while cycling?

Although they cannot guarantee your safety, “Wearing a helmet while cycling is the best way to reduce the risk of serious injury.” according to Dr. Lara McKenzie, from the Center for Injury Research and Policy. It may help to use a helmet that includes a MIPS foam lining (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System).

What should I do if I suffered a head injury while cycling?

If you have suffered a head injury while cycling, it is especially important to see a doctor immediately if any of these warning signs occur::

• Headaches worsen or do not go away
• Blurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
• Noticeable nausea or repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• unconsciousness
• Inability to wake up
• The symptoms have worsened at all times
• The symptoms did not go away after 10-14 days
• A history of multiple collisions

Concussions are microscopic and difficult to spot often present normally on neuroimaging. Therefore, it is important to discuss any symptoms with a doctor who will be better able to diagnose the symptoms of TBIs.

If you’ve suffered a TBI and believe the injury was caused by the negligence of others, you are should speak to one Brain Injury Lawyer about your options as you You may be able to claim compensation for your injuries.