For years, energy drinks have been a popular beverage option for people needing a “pick-me-up.” These products claim to increase mental awareness and combat fatigue. They contain ingredients like taurine, B vitamins, ginseng, and of course, caffeine. In fact, some energy drinks can contain more caffeine than sodas or even a standard cup of coffee.
While most people have tried an energy drink at least once, they’re widely consumed by males aged 18 to 34. Unfortunately, teen consumption has proven problematic, sometimes resulting in brain damage. This may seem unlikely, but under certain circumstances, energy drinks can be extremely harmful.
HOW ENERGY DRINKS CAN LEAD TO BRAIN DAMAGE
Simply consuming an energy drink won’t cause brain damage. There are a number of other factors that come into play. However, the high levels of caffeine in these drinks can alter a person’s behavior, which is why many teens have sustained injuries. A study published by the scientific journal PLOS ONE found that teenagers who sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the past year were seven times more likely to have consumed five or more energy drinks in the past week than teens with no history of TBI. However, what exactly is causing the injuries?
Energy drinks are very popular with athletes. Many of these beverages are marketed to athletes who need to boost their performance. This boost in energy can lead to overexertion, which can cause head injuries, especially while playing contact sports like football. Additionally, many teens mix energy drinks with alcohol. This dangerous mixture could easily lead to falls, aggressiveness, and other dangerous behavior. Finally, energy drinks have been found to interfere with the recovery process after a TBI.
SIDE-EFFECTS OF A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
TBIs result when a person sustains a blow to the head. They can also occur if an object penetrates the head or skull. The force of the blow determines the side-effects a person will experience. After serious blows, long-term or permanent brain damage can occur. Some other side-effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Loss of consciousness
- Dizziness
- Speech issues
- Loss of balance
If you’ve experienced a traumatic brain injury and suspect it was related to the consumption of an energy drink, you may be able to seek compensation through a product liability claim.
PROVING GUILT IN PRODUCT LIABILITY CASES
When seeking compensation through a product liability claim, you must prove that the defendant manufactured or sold a defective product that was unreasonably dangerous, and that product caused injury. Product liability claims can include elements of design defect, manufacturing defect, or a failure to give proper instructions for the use of the product. Additionally, Arizona operates under a comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you’re partially at fault for your injuries, you may still receive a reduced jury award. However, product liability cases are extremely complicated and require detailed planning. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced injury attorney.
CONTACT A PHOENIX PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY TODAY
If you or a loved one has sustained brain damage and energy drinks were a contributing factor, we can help. Our attorneys will evaluate your case to determine if fault exists on the part of the manufacture of the beverage. We can seek compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Contact Miller Kory Rowe, LLP at (602) 648-4045 to set up a consultation.