If traumatic brain injuries were better understood, perhaps policymakers wouldn't balk at legislative proposals requiring seat-belt use and motorcycle helmets for all motorists.

A study on traumatic brain injuries recently released by the Utah Department of Health paints a startling picture of the reality of brain injuries in Utah. On average, there are five nonfatal traumatic brain injuries a day in the Beehive State as well as one that kills.

Most result from motor vehicle crashes and falls. These injuries can result in lifelong problems such as difficulty with concentration, memory, judgment and mood. Also, the injuries can result in difficulties with vision and tactile sensation in addition to issues with instability and impulsivity.

Many of these injuries are preventable, however. Loose rugs, clutter around stairways and poorly lighted pathways can contribute to falls in homes. These hazards can be rectified easily. Seniors should pay particular attention to the health department recommendations because among Utahns 60 and older, the most common cause of a traumatic brain injury is a fall. Most often, the falls occur at home.

For Utahns ages 15-24, brain injuries most commonly result from motor vehicle accidents. This risk can be reduced by wearing seat belts, properly restraining children in age-appropriate safety seats or booster seats and wearing motorcycle helmets. Experts also recommend wearing helmets while participating in sports such as hockey, football, baseball, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, horseback riding, bicycling and when using a scooter or skateboard.

For illustration purposes, state health department officials cited two real-life cases of traumatic brain injuries that occurred in 2005.

• A 19-year-old man who suffered a severe skull fracture in a single-car rollover was hospitalized for more than a month. Blood tests indicated he was using marijuana at the time of the accident. He requires daily care from others.

• A 45-year-old man from rural Utah crashed his motorcycle into a car, resulting in severe head and neck injuries. He was not wearing a helmet. He was hospitalized and spent extended time in a rehabilitation center.

Not all accidents are preventable, but understanding the delicate nature of the brain and the long-term consequences of traumatic brain injuries, Utahns should take common-sense steps to protect their noggins. And policymakers should craft seat-belt and helmet laws that help improve the odds of surviving and recovering from motor vehicles accidents. For more information, the online report is available at www.health.utah.gov/vipp.