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TBIs and Children: What Parents Should Watch for After a Fall or Crash

Seeing your child hurt is traumatic in and of itself. After a serious fall or a crash involving your kid, there are certain signs and symptoms you should look out for. Whether they were hurt in a sports accident, car crash, or other incident, knowing the signs can help protect your child from further harm. Even a seemingly minor hit to the head can have serious consequences for a young brain, especially as it is still growing and forming.

At High Stack Law, our skilled Florida personal injury lawyers help you seek compensation from the negligent party that hurt your child. The costs of these injuries, both financial and emotional, should be the responsibility of the wrongful person, not you. Let us help you today. 

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What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury occurs after a serious blow to the head. This is usually some kind of:

  • Jolt
  • Blow
  • Penetrating injury
  • Heavy impact

These brain injuries might be relatively minor, or they can be catastrophic. Some children need a little time to recover, while others may be permanently disabled. Understanding the symptoms and what to look for can help parents keep their kids safe.

Common Causes of TBIs in Children

Some of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries for kids include, but are not limited to:

  • Falls from a height
  • Diving accidents
  • Car accidents
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Bicycle crashes
  • Objects dropped on the head
  • Child abuse
  • Sports injuries
  • Playground accidents

Symptoms to Look for After a Child’s Head Injury

After any kind of head injury, be vigilant and look for symptoms. These might include:

  • Loss of consciousness, even if for a short period
  • Persistent headache
  • Pressure in the head
  • Nausea
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Drowsiness
  • Difficulty waking up
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Memory problems
  • Slurred speech
  • Trouble forming words
  • Balance issues
  • Dizziness
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Seizures

If any of these symptoms occur, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Subtle Signs That May Develop Later

Not every symptom is going to show up right away, or be blatantly obvious. Parents should also look for:

  • Increased irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Trouble completing schoolwork
  • Insomnia
  • Increased sleeping
  • Decline in performance at school
  • Withdrawal from friends
  • Losing interest in favorite activities
  • Complaints of ongoing headaches
  • Vision problems
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

These subtle signs may indicate a concussion or more serious brain injury that requires medical evaluation.

Steps Parents Should Take After a Head Injury

After an injury, you should:

  • Get medical attention for your child
  • Follow any recommendations the doctor makes
  • Watch children closely for symptoms and changes
  • Talk with teachers and coaches about the accident, and if they notice anything different about your child
  • Schedule follow-up medical appointments

When to Call 911

Call emergency services immediately if your child:

  • Loses consciousness for more than a few seconds
  • Experiences repeated vomiting
  • Has a seizure
  • Shows unequal pupil size
  • Cannot be awakened or is extremely lethargic
  • Exhibits clear fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears

These are signs of a potentially life-threatening injury requiring urgent care.

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Compensation for Traumatic Brain Injuries in Florida

If your child suffered a traumatic brain injury because of some other person’s negligent actions, you and the child could be entitled to financial compensation for:

  • Past and future medical costs
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Lost wages and earning capacity
  • Property damages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of consortium
  • Punitive damages (in certain cases)

Pursue Compensation After a Child Traumatic Brain Injury

All head injuries are scary, but they are especially so when they happen to your child. Prompt care and knowing the signs can help in a major way. Parents who carefully watch for these symptoms can stay ahead of it both medically and legally. You have rights that deserve protection.

Consult a Florida personal injury attorney at High Stack Law for help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.