Shocking Brain Injury Statistics in Canada You Need to Know About
Brain injury is something we know about, but we don’t really think about until it’s too late. However, these brain injury statistics for Canada will shock you.
It’s so important to pay attention to the facts because you never know when you or someone you love is going to suffer a serious injury.
Every year in Canada and the United States, about 10 million people suffer from traumatic brain injuries. That’s a huge number we can’t overlook.
Your brain is the hub of everything you do. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to walk, talk, or perform any other physical or mental functions.
That being said, your brain is also very fragile. An injury to the head can have serious consequences, no matter how hard you’re hit.
These brain injury statistics from Canada within the last 10-15 years are important to know incase this happens to you. Get the information you need now before it’s too late.
Important Brain Injury Information All Canadians Should Know
Brain injury is one of the most dangerous injuries you can suffer. In Canada, it’s more common than spinal cord injury, breast cancer, and HIV/AIDS, and it occurs at a higher rate than all of those combined.
Every year, there are at least 165,000 serious brain injuries reported in the country. That’s 452 people per day, and 1 person every 3 minutes. Someone is probably acquiring one right now as you read this.
For Canadians under 40, brain injury is the leading cause of death or disability. This is especially true for those who are more involved in rigorous activities or physical sports.
The leading causes of brain injury in Canada are as follows:
- Motor vehicle accidents (45%)
- Slip and falls (10%)
- Bicycle accidents (10%)
- Injuries in the workplace (10%)
- Sports, activities, or physical altercations/assault (10%)
- Medical conditions (10%)
- Poison or toxins (5%)
If you don’t personally suffer from a brain injury, it’s highly possible that someone close to you will experience one. That’s why it’s important to understand how to deal with a brain injury before it’s too late.
Brain Injury, Disability, and Brain Damage
There are a few different types of brain injury you could suffer, and they range from mild to serious, and even catastrophic.
Brain injuries are also extremely dangerous because they can lead to permanent brain damage and further issues that could last for the rest of your life. For example, it could cause stroke, epilepsy, and impaired muscle functions.
Even a more minor brain injury, like a minor concussion, can lead to recurring issues. In addition, a minor injury can turn into a more serious one if it doesn’t go away on its own.
Additionally, those who have suffered a brain injury are more likely to suffer another one later on. You are 3 times more likely to suffer another brain injury, and 8 times more likely to experience another type of injury.
Not only that, but you’re also more likely to develop conditions such as anxiety, risk of addiction, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic migraines.
The Road To Recovery
If you’re recovering from a brain injury, the reality is that you’re looking at a long road ahead of you.
Firstly, you have your medical expenses and treatments. Depending on your individual circumstances, this could be anything from medication to rehabilitation and therapy.
Next, you have to begin healing both mentally and physically. It can be exhausting trying to recover from an injury of this extent, and some people are left with permanent repercussions.
Many people who experience serious traumatic brain injuries aren’t able to return to full-time employment. In Ontario alone, 92% of men and 100% of women who suffer a brain injury never return to work.
You could qualify for long-term disability benefits if you can’t work due to your injury. If you’ve become incapable of performing any job that’s within your experience, education, or other qualifications, you can seek disability compensation for the lost wages you would otherwise be earning.
It’s also important that you seek compensation by making a brain or whiplash injury claim. Getting the settlement you deserve can help you on the right path to recovery and moving forward with your life.
Preparation is Your Best Defence
We can’t predict when we’re going to suffer from a serious injury. The most we can do is be prepared. Knowing what to do when these things happen is going to be your biggest advantage if you find yourself in this situation.
By 2020, it’s estimated that traumatic brain injury is going to be one of the leading causes of death and disability. This means it’s going to become a bigger contributor than many diseases. In fact, it’s more than stroke, skin cancer, and breast cancer put together.
It’s important for all Canadians to take precautions to make sure they are staying as safe as possible.
Wearing a helmet, for example, reduces your risk of brain injury by 88%. Seatbelts are also known to have a positive impact, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding distracted driving.
The last thing any of us want us for our loved ones or ourselves to become another brain injury statistic. Prevention and awareness are the first step in the right direction.
Conte Jaswal Will Fight For Your Right to Compensation
If you or someone you love has suffered a brain injury, you should seek compensation for your pain. Our team at Conte Jaswal will fight for you.
We are your advocate. It’s our job to make sure you have everything you need to win your settlement and get the compensation you deserve. We work with the top medical professionals in Ontario who are ready to step up for you and strengthen your case.
You should hold the negligent party accountable for your lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, or wrongful death of a loved one. Don’t suffer any longer because of someone else’s stupid decisions.
Contact us today to book a free, no-obligation consultation at one of our offices in Whitby and Vaughan. We’re ready to start!