Motor vehicle crash injuries are one of the leading causes of death for children in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 675 children, age 12 and under, were killed in crashes in 2017, and 116,000 were injured.
The CDC says only half of the 8- to 12-year-old children who died or were injured were wearing seat belts. The agency reports that nearly a third of children 7 and under were incorrectly fastened in child restraint systems.
Children are most at risk for TBI in crashes
Rear-end auto collisions are one of the most frequent causes of traumatic brain injury (TBI), and the Mayo Clinic says newborn children to 4-year-olds are most at risk when suffering a severe blow to the head or body.
Doctors assess brain injuries as mild, moderate and severe to describe the likely effect that the injury can have on brain function. However, doctors warn that a mild brain injury is still a serious injury and one that requires prompt medical attention.
What are the signs of TBI in children?
The symptoms for brain injuries in adults vary widely and can be something as minor as a slight headache to a severe concussion and other physical, mental and cognitive effects. Children are not always able to clearly communicate how they are feeling, but you should look for the following signs of TBI:
- Constant and inconsolable crying
- Inability to pay attention
- Changing eating or nursing habits
- Unusual irritability
- Changing sleep habits
- Extreme sadness or depression
- Drowsiness
- Seizures
- Losing interest in favorite activities or toys
Seek immediate medical attention for crash injuries
If you and your children are involved in a crash, see a doctor for any injuries, regardless of how minor you believe them to be. Even a minor crash can cause significant injuries that create massive medical expenses and other related costs. Consult an experienced personal injury attorney here in Florida who will represent your interests and work to get you the compensation you deserve.