Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries in Children

When families are involved in a car accident in Chicago, the health and safety of children become the first concern. While scrapes, bruises, or broken bones can be immediately obvious, head injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are often more difficult to detect. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a child’s development, learning, and overall quality of life. Understanding what to look for, how these injuries are treated, and the legal steps parents can take is vital for protecting your child’s future.

Why Children Are Susceptible to Brain Injuries in Car Accidents

Children are naturally more vulnerable to head injuries in auto accidents. Their brains are still developing, and their skulls are thinner and less rigid compared to adults. Even when using appropriate car seats or seat belts, the forces involved in a collision can cause the brain to move within the skull, resulting in a concussion or a more serious TBI. According to crash data, children are often among the most affected pedestrians and vehicle occupants in Chicago accidents.

Unlike adults, children may not always communicate their symptoms clearly. A toddler might cry excessively or become irritable, while a school-age child may experience headaches, trouble concentrating, or changes in behavior. The signs may appear hours or even days after the accident. This can make it challenging for parents to immediately connect these symptoms to the crash, which is why medical evaluation is crucial even if your child appears unharmed.

The risk of brain injury is not limited to high-speed collisions. Even a minor accident can cause enough force to injure a child’s brain. Side impacts, rear-end collisions, and rollovers are particularly dangerous. It’s important to remember that a properly installed child restraint or booster seat significantly reduces the risk, but cannot eliminate it entirely.

Signs and Symptoms of Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries in Children

Recognizing the signs of a concussion or TBI in a child after a Chicago car accident can sometimes be difficult. Children often lack the vocabulary to describe what they’re feeling. As a parent or caregiver, it’s vital to know what symptoms to watch for so you can get timely medical care.

Common signs include loss of consciousness (even a brief one), persistent headache, vomiting, dizziness, and confusion. Some children may seem dazed, forget things that happened before or after the accident, or display unusual behavior such as irritability or excessive crying. Older children may complain of blurred vision, sensitivity to light or noise, or difficulty thinking clearly.

More severe TBIs can result in prolonged loss of consciousness, seizures, slurred speech, or unequal pupil size. These symptoms require immediate emergency care. After a car accident, monitor your child for changes for several days and seek medical advice if you notice anything concerning. Children’s brains are especially susceptible to swelling and other complications, so prompt evaluation and follow-up care are essential.

If your child has suffered a concussion or TBI, early intervention can improve their chances of recovery. Treatment might include rest, specialized therapies, and academic accommodations at school. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations, and keep detailed records of your child’s symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments.

The Long-Term Impact of Pediatric Brain Injuries

While some children recover fully from a concussion, others may experience lingering effects that impact their daily lives. Traumatic brain injuries can affect cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, behavior, and even physical coordination. For young children, brain injuries can interfere with milestones such as speech and motor skills. For older kids and teens, TBIs may result in problems at school, memory loss, and emotional challenges.

The long-term costs associated with pediatric TBIs can be substantial. These may include ongoing medical treatment, physical or occupational therapy, counseling, special education services, and modifications at home or school. Some children require long-term care and support well into adulthood.

Families may not realize the full extent of their child’s needs until months or even years after the accident. That’s why it’s essential to work with knowledgeable car accident lawyers who understand both the immediate and future needs of injured children. They can help quantify future care needs and pursue compensation that covers all the potential long-term impacts.

What To Do If Your Child Suffers a Head Injury in a Chicago Car Accident

If your child is involved in a car accident, the first step is to seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. A thorough evaluation may include neurological exams and imaging tests to rule out serious brain injuries. Keep a close watch for delayed symptoms, as some issues may not be obvious in the moments following the crash.

After addressing the medical needs, document everything: accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and photographs. Write down your child’s symptoms and any changes in their condition. These records will be valuable for both medical providers and your legal team.

Contacting a Chicago car accident lawyer is an important step. They can help you understand your rights, navigate the insurance process, and ensure all deadlines are met for filing a claim. An attorney can also work to prove liability if another driver’s negligence caused the accident.

You don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. The Chicago personal injury attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers have extensive experience helping families recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and the long-term needs that come with pediatric TBIs.

Legal Options for Families After a Child’s Brain Injury

The financial and emotional consequences of a child’s brain injury after a car accident can be overwhelming. When another party’s negligence is to blame, families have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Compensation can help cover current and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages for parents who must care for their child, and pain and suffering.

Illinois law allows parents or guardians to file a lawsuit on behalf of their injured child. It’s important to act quickly, as there are statutes of limitation that apply to personal injury cases. Working with a car accident attorney who understands the intricacies of pediatric TBIs is critical for building a strong case. They’ll gather evidence, consult with medical professionals, and advocate for a settlement or court decision that truly reflects your child’s needs.

Insurance companies may try to settle quickly and for less than your family is entitled to. Having experienced auto accident attorneys on your side ensures your child’s rights are protected and that you have the resources needed for ongoing care.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries in Children

What should I do if my child seems fine after a car accident but starts showing symptoms later?
Monitor your child closely for several days after the accident, as symptoms of a concussion or TBI can be delayed. If signs such as headaches, confusion, nausea, or behavioral changes appear, seek immediate medical attention. Keep a record of symptoms and communicate with your child’s doctor.

Can I file a claim even if my child was in a car seat during the accident?
Yes. Child safety seats reduce the risk of injury but do not eliminate it. If your child suffered a concussion or brain injury due to another driver’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation regardless of whether safety restraints were used.

How long do I have to file a claim for my child’s brain injury after a car accident in Illinois?
Illinois law generally provides more time for injury claims involving minors, but it’s still crucial to act promptly. Contact a car accident lawyer soon after the accident to ensure you meet all legal deadlines and preserve your rights.

What types of compensation are available for children with traumatic brain injuries from car accidents?
Compensation can include payment for medical expenses, therapy and rehabilitation, special education services, pain and suffering, and future care needs. An auto accident attorney can help you pursue all available damages so your child gets the care and support they need.

Resources for Child Injuries from Car Accidents

• Child Car Seat Injuries from Car Accidents in Chicago
• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries in Children After a Car Accident
• Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries in Children
• Psychological Trauma in Children After a Car Accident