Traumatic brain injuries are the leading cause of death and disability in children and young adults. In the United States, traumatic brain injury occurs every 16 seconds. During Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month, I want to discuss prevention.
How can you or those you love prevent a traumatic brain injury from occurring?
The three most common causes of traumatic brain injury are: falls, motor vehicle accidents, and recreational activities. No matter what causes your head injury, the consequences are the same. However, each type/cause of traumatic brain injury requires different steps for prevention.
How to Prevent Falls:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Use hand rails when walking up and down stairs.
- Make sure there is adequate lighting in your living space.
- Clear obstacles from walking areas.
- Where sensible shoes (especially in the Winter months).
- Examine the area around you before proceeding.
- Avoid complicated walkways.
Motor Vehicle Accident Prevention:
- Always obey all traffic laws.
- Wear seat belts at all times.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Engage in defensive driving, don’t trust the other drivers around you.
- Do not drive while tired, ill, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- When possible, help prevent others from driving under the influence.
- Avoid distracted driving, including texting and driving.
- Avoid bad weather and night driving when possible.
Preventing Recreational Head Injuries:
- Always where a helmet when engaging in recreational activities, such as bicycle riding, horseback riding, four wheeling, skiing, snowboarding, and contact sports.
- Follow all rules when visiting parks (water parks, beaches, playgrounds, skate parks)
- Learn the correct techniques when engaging in any physical activities.
- Don’t over-exert yourself. Know your limits.
Knowledge about traumatic brain injury can save a life. Fast action and quick treatment can significantly increase your chance of survival and ability to recover after a traumatic brain injury. Let Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month be the catalyst for change, as we shine a light on this issue.
If you or someone you love suffered a traumatic brain injury, you need to call me right away at 1 (800) 556-4769 to schedule a FREE consultation to discuss your injury and whether it could have been prevented. As your personal injury lawyer, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over 34 years, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus & Cincinnati, Ohio.” You can reach Tim by email at tmisny@misnylaw.com or call at 1 (800) 556-4769.