South Florida Has Highest Rate of Traumatic Brain Injury in State

Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties have the highest incidence of brain injury in Florida, according to Wendy Waldman, a resource coordinator with the Brain Injury Association of Florida (BIAF). In a CBS 12 report by Stephanie Watson, Waldman and others shared stories about suffering brain trauma, living in the aftermath, and the hope for the future that BIAF and other agencies are trying to create for victims of these irreversible personal injuries.

With news of horrific auto accidents plaguing I-95 almost daily, it’s no surprise that South Florida has the highest numbers of TBI cases in the state. Alex Hankinson is a TBI victim who lost his memory in an accident on I-95. Hankinson was witnessed being struck by at least 2 vehicles before disappearing among traffic on the heavily-traveled highway.

Hankinson speaks of learning to walk, speak and utilize his hands in the aftermath of the injury, and laments that although he may be lucky to be alive, it is frustrating to start over without life’s often taken-for-granted comforts. Among the adjustments, Hankinson mentions the inability to purchase food or a vehicle because he was unable to find work.

In stepped Waldman, who, through the BIAF, introduced Hankinson to the Department of Education’s Vocational Rehabilitation division. He was placed in a program called “Independence Works”, a non-profit that serves disabled residents seeking jobs and partners with over 180 employers in Palm Beach County. Maria Conde, a career resource specialist with the program, believes that all people, even those with challenging disabilities, can work. She has placed 75 disabled persons in jobs so far this year.

There are many victims throughout South Florida just like Alex Harkinson who may be able to find meaningful work and a means to income with the help of individuals like Waldman and Conde, as well as the organizations that have been established to help disabled people and those who have suffered TBI.

As personal injury attorneys in South Florida, our attorneys understand the life-altering nature of brain injuries. We offer free case evaluations and work on a contingency fee basis for victims of brain trauma and other serious personal injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt, call our WPB injury lawyers toll free at 1 (855) 722-2552, or fill out the form on this page to discuss your case – free and confidentially.