Traumatic Brain Injuries in Children
Parents spend countless hours and dollars trying to protect their children from harm. All too often, though, kids find themselves involved in serious accidents. What might start out as a harmless trip to the skating rink or soccer field can sometimes result in a life-changing traumatic brain injury. According to the Brain Injury Association of American, BIAA, brain injuries are the leading cause of death and disability in children and teens.
Any kind of slip, trip or fall can lead to serious head trauma. Car accidents are also a common cause of traumatic brain injuries, or TBI. When such an accident occurs and the brain is injured, a child may suffer permanent disability or even death. Understanding the most common causes and side effects of TBI can help you protect your family.
Sports and TBI
While athletics are an important part of many people’s childhoods, they’re also one of the leading causes of brain injuries. The teamwork, discipline, and athleticism necessary for sports are incredibly formative for a child, but participation doesn’t come without risk. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons found that cycling, football, baseball, and basketball were the sports most likely to result in head injuries in 2009.
It’s not just contact sports that parents need to be mindful of when watching out for brain injuries. Even sports like cheerleading and gymnastics can result in serious TBIs. While the risks do not necessarily outweigh the benefits of these kinds of activities, parents owe it to themselves and their little ones to stay informed.
Warning Signs of Concussions
“Getting your bell rung” was once a common phrase used to describe the dizzying effects of being hit in the head. Coaches and parents of athletes would encourage kids to shake it off and get back in the game. We’ve come a long way – experts now recognize these side effects as warning signs of concussions. Rather than have kids ignore these signs, it’s important to watch out for them and take action when a concussion is suspected. Other warning signs include:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Amnesia
- Fatigue
- Ringing in the ears
In some cases, concussion symptoms take days to show up. If your child experienced a blow to the head, keep an eye out for the following warning signs in the days and weeks following the incident:
- Memory problems
- Sleep trouble
- Irritability
- Changes in personality
- Depression
- A change in taste or smell
- Loss of balance
- Excessive crying
Students may suffer concentration problems in school after a TBI occurs. Keep a close watch on the behaviors of your child and see a doctor if you suspect a concussion has occurred.
Protecting the Rights of Childhood TBI Victims
Children are among the most vulnerable members of our society. They depend on their parents, teachers, and coaches to protect their health and safety. Even as kids grow more and more independent with age, they still need adults to advocate for their best interests. While many TBI cases in children are caused by accidents, they are sometimes the result of another person’s negligence. Coaches who ignore signs of a concussion, reckless drivers who cause car accidents and abusive caregivers can all directly cause or contribute to a child’s suffering.
In such cases, legal action may be required. If your child’s traumatic brain injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, they may be entitled to damages. A settlement can help cover the cost of medical bills, tutoring, and therapy for a child with TBI. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and ensure that your child’s best interests are protected. Schedule your free, no-risk consultation today by calling or texting 877-544-5323.