Miami Accident Lawyer Blog
People of all ages can sustain head trauma in an accident, but statistics from the Brain Trauma Foundation reveal that the risks for children are shockingly high. Every year in the US, 2.5 million individuals suffer traumatic brain injury (TBI) and around 50,000-60,000 children are hospitalized for these injuries. Plus, TBI is also the leading cause of death and disability among individuals under 18 years old, as they carry significant long-term physical and emotional implications.
Though you want to do all you can to protect your child when you know the risks of TBI, accidents can still happen. A Miami brain injury attorney can explain your legal options if your child was hurt, but knowing how these injuries happen may help you reduce the threat.
Top Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries to Children
The Brain Trauma Foundation revealed that there are three types of accidents that are responsible for causing more than two-thirds of all head injuries and fatalities in children:
- Falls: At 28% of all TBIs in children, falls are the most dangerous. Many of these incidents occur in the home, and some are linked to defective products. Top-heavy or tall furniture is a threat when these pieces are poorly designed, unstable, and do not come with hardware to anchor them to a wall. However, many falls among older children come through their participation in athletics, falls on a playground or park, and related events.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: It is not so shocking to learn that auto collisions are responsible for 20% of all TBIs in children. Though you cannot always prevent motor vehicle crashes, you can protect your child if one does occur. Make sure younger children are secured in an age- and weight-appropriate car seat or booster, and always in the back seat. When your child outgrows a safety device, always ensure he or she wears the factory-installed seatbelt.
- Struck by/Striking an Object: Almost one in five children who suffers a TBI or other head injury was hit by something or collided with a solid surface.
Compensation for Florida Families
By filing a claim against the person or entity responsible for causing an accident, you can obtain amounts for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. Still, when a child suffers a TBI, it can affect the entire family. If you are a parent forced to take time off work to care for your child – temporarily or permanently – you could be entitled to recover for your lost wages. There are also damages to surviving family members when a child dies because of a TBI.
Reach Out to Our Miami Brain Injury Lawyers to Discuss Your Case
If your child suffered a TBI or other head injuries in an accident, you can trust our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA to assist with your legal options. We can guide you through the insurance claims process, and we will take the battle to court if necessary to protect your family’s interests. To set up a no-cost consultation with an experienced attorney, please contact our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.