Study Shows Even Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries Can Pose Risk of Job Loss
Study Shows Even Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries Can Pose Risk of Job Loss
Individuals who suffer so-called mild traumatic brain injuries run the risk of losing their jobs due to “persistent post-concussive symptoms,” according to a new study published in BMJ Open. According to the study, those who are in their 30s are particularly susceptible to this risk. For this study, researchers looked at 19,732 Danish hospital patients between the ages of 18 and 60 who were diagnosed with mild traumatic brain injury.
Patients Suffer in the Long Term
Following the analysis, the results showed that while single status patients’ jobs were more affected in the short-term, patients with a partner were affected in the long term. Researchers found that people with a concussion have a significantly higher risk of being out of a job five years after the trauma. Instead, they are unemployment receiving disability payments or early pension or working part-time supported by social service benefits.
The study in particular identified two groups of patients who were severely affected by long-term symptoms of concussions – those in their 30s and those with a higher education. Researchers say they found it surprising that the effect of a concussion has these types of consequences and affected these patients’ ability to maintain a normal job even five years after the trauma. They say long-term symptoms such as fatigue and difficulties in concentration can affect anyone regardless of their level of education.
What stands out, according to the study, is that those with a higher education are at a much higher risk of losing their job after a concussion. This may be attributed to the fact that these individuals may hold jobs where they must plan and prioritize tasks and the workloads on their own and that their ability to function at a high level might be severely impaired after a concussion.
The Significant Impact of a Brain Injury
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, about 1.7 million cases of traumatic brain injuries or TBI occur in the United States every year. Approximately 5.3 million people live with a disability caused by TBI in the U.S. alone. Every year, 80,000-90,000 people experience the onset of long-term or lifelong disabilities associated with TBI. National statistics estimate that 50 to 70 percent of TBI accidents are the result of auto accidents, which might include car, truck, pedestrian, bus or bicycle accidents.
Brain injury victims, in addition to physical and emotional impacts, suffer a significant financial impact. When you consider that those in their 30s with a higher education, often male, could lose their jobs, it becomes obvious that a number of families could end up losing their primary sources of income. This could prove financially devastating to families.
Our experienced brain injury lawyers strive to ensure that the injured clients and families we represent have their best shot at recovering maximum possible compensation for their injuries, damages and losses. If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your significant losses. Call us to find out how we can help.
