Brain Injury Lawyer: Brain Injury Awareness Month Safety Tips
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. As such, the experienced brain injury lawyers at The Law Offices
of Blake R. Maislin, want to help increase awareness by sharing some information on brain injuries. In the following article, you will find causes, symptoms and tips on how to avoid a brain injury.
Brain injuries can be mild or severe. Someone who experiences a severe brain injury requires hospitalization and often has long-term complications which can include loss of memory, loss of coordination or balance, and loss of vision among other problems. These injuries affect all aspects of life, including the ability to do household chores, maintain employment, and can even affect relationships with friends and family. This makes it crucial to consult with a brain injury attorney should you suffer one.
Concussions are often classified as mild brain injuries because they generally are not life-threatening. They are caused by an impact to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth. This rapid movement damages brain cells and creates chemical changes in the brain. According to the CDC, serious signs of concussion can include:
One pupil larger than the other.
Drowsiness or inability to wake up.
A headache that gets worse and does not go away.
Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination.
Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching).
Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation.
Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out). Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously.
On another note, there are some additional signs to look for if you are concerned about a concussion in an infant or toddler. The CDC recognizes these symptoms:
Any of the signs and symptoms listed in the Danger Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion list.
Will not stop crying and cannot be consoled.
Will not nurse or eat.
Now let’s talk about how to be proactive and avoid ever needed a brain injury lawyer. Starting with babies and toddlers it’s important to protect your brain no matter what age you are. Here are some tips:
Car seats and booster seats are the law, but that doesn’t mean everyone obeys it. In fact, in 2011, 33% of children who died in car crashes were not buckled up. You can see the CDC’s recommendations based on age, just click here: Child Passenger Safety Facts.
Helmets are not “concussion-proof,” but there’s no doubt they reduce the risk of brain injury. It’s important to note that helmets are not just meant for riding bikes, skateboarding and roller skating. In fact, helmets are even more essential when it comes to playing sports. Whether your child is involved in baseball, football, skiing, biking or is an equestrian enthusiast, a helmet is a vital part of reducing the risk of brain injury. You can find more information on the safety guidelines for your child’s sport here: Helmet Safety.
Additional safety information is available here: Brain Injury Safety Tips and Prevention.
Brain injuries are serious. They are clearly the most complex organ of the human body. Likewise, someone who has suffered from brain injury may be facing litigation that is equally complex. Seeking a law firm that employs an experienced brain injury lawyer is highly recommended. If you believe you may be suffering from a brain injury it is very important you seek medical attention right away. Just as you would seek a medical specialist that focuses on your specific ailment, it is equally important to seek a lawyer that specializes in your specific legal issue. It is critical to understand that a brain injury lawyer specializes in legal cases specifically involving brain injuries and therefore they have become a specialist in this specific legal practice.
If you or someone you know has suffered a brain injury as the result of another person’s recklessness or negligence, please contact the Law Offices of Blake R. Maislin today to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced brain injury lawyers.
