Concussions, Brain Injuries on the Rise in Youth

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a significant rise in emergency room visits for children with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions. Over the past decade, the number of children aged 18 and younger reporting serious head trauma has increased by 62%. Most cases involve young men, particularly those participating in high-impact sports like football.

Traumatic Brain Injuries Among Children and Teens

An estimated 1.7 million people sustain a TBI each year. Alarmingly, in 2006 alone, almost half a million emergency room visits were for TBIs suffered by children aged 14 and younger. The data highlights the risks young athletes face, especially in contact sports, where the likelihood of concussions and other brain injuries is high.

One particularly dangerous condition, second impact syndrome, occurs when an athlete returns to their sport too soon after a concussion. This syndrome develops when a second brain injury occurs before the first has fully healed. It doesn’t require significant trauma—a minor blow to the head, chest, or back can cause the brain to rebound within the skull, resulting in severe, permanent damage. Athletes with existing head injuries are especially vulnerable, as even minimal force can exacerbate the damage.

Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries

The consequences of TBIs, including second impact syndrome, can be life-altering. Severe cases often require long-term rehabilitation and care, leaving victims unable to return to work. Even mild brain injuries can affect an individual’s job performance, social interactions, and financial stability.

Given the serious nature of these injuries, personal injury law provides a pathway for victims of negligence to seek compensation. Brain injury victims may be eligible to recover damages for:

• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Current and future medical bills
• Pain and suffering

Protecting Brain Injury Victims

If you or a loved one has suffered head trauma, you may have the right to pursue a brain injury lawsuit. Our experienced attorneys offer free, no-obligation case reviews to help determine your legal options.

Children Are Especially Vulnerable to Brain Injuries

Children are particularly susceptible to TBIs in certain situations. Their developing brains make them more vulnerable to both short-term and long-term consequences. Ensuring safety measures in sports and other high-risk activities is crucial to protecting their well-being.

Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in seeking justice and compensation for brain injuries caused by another’s negligence.