Movie star Natasha Richardson was pronounced dead today, two days after falling during a ski accident at a Canadian resort. The actress was taking a beginner's ski lesson when the fall accident happened. Although she initially appeared to be fine, her condition quickly deteriorated and she had to be rushed to a local hospital because she was suffering from a traumatic brain injury.
Richardson was eventually flown to New York where she was surrounded by family and friends. She was the daughter of actress Vanessa Redgrave and the wife of film star Liam Neeson.
Her accident and resulting head injury has garnered quite a bit of media attention over the seriousness of such injuries--even when it appears as if the injury is minor. In some instances, a blow to the head during a motor vehicle crash or a slip and fall accident may appear to be minor, but the injury can quickly turn fatal.
Dr. Christopher Giza, a UCLA brain injury neurologist, says that Richardson experienced what is often referred to as "walk and die" syndrome. The injured person appears to be behaving normally but can quickly experience impaired vision and speech before falling into a coma. This is also referred to as an epidural hemorrhage.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
• About 50,000 people will die from a traumatic brain injury every year.
• 235,000 will go to a hospital because of a TBI.
• Common causes of TBIs include: Fall accidents, auto accidents, getting hit or striking a hard object, and assault crimes.
If your traumatic brain injury or your loved one's TBI was caused by a negligent party, you may be entitled to California personal injury compensation. Traumatic brain injuries can be devastating injuries that can result in severe impairment, costly lifelong medical care, and even death.
Did Natasha Richardson suffer "walk and die" syndrome?, AJC.com, March 18, 2009
Actress Natasha Richardson dies after skiing accident, Los Angeles Times, March 18, 2009
TBI Fact Sheets, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Related Web Resources:
NINDS Traumatic Brain Injury Information Page, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes
Brain Injuries Overview, Justia
